How to get a Driving License in Dubai

Although there are many public modes of transport in Dubai, travelling in a car is the most preferred option. Citizens of the 36 countries approved by UAE can obtain their license through transfer procedure, without undergoing any training. Others can get their driving licenses by undergoing training at an authorized school. If you are between 18 to 21 years of age, you can apply for a probationary license.

Candidates applying for a driving license through an authorized driving school will have to undergo a theory test, road test and get an eye test done at a local optician. Passport (original & copy), residence permit copy, 8 passport photos and NOC from your sponsor is mandatory for obtaining the license.

Passport (original & copy), residence permit copy, eye test certificate, current driving license (original & copy), one passport photo, translation of license if necessary and NOC from your sponsor is mandatory for the transfer procedure.

Renewal of licenses is a very quick procedure that takes place at any RTA Traffic Office branch or mall outlet in less than 30 minutes. Dubai also permits renewal of licenses and car registration of vehicles from other emirates. A Passport copy,, eye test certificate, 1 passport photo, inserting existing personal file or new one at RTA portal, paying renewal fees or/and fines if any is mandatory for the renewal procedure.

Source: Dubai

How to get new 'Dubai Brand' Car plate numbers

Since December 2014 RTA released new private car plate designs with Dubai Brand on it.

Ahmed Bahroyzan, CEO of RTA Licensing Agency, said: “RTA is committed to the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to use new Dubai Brand and endorse it as a tool in marketing and promoting Dubai in order to show that the emirate acts in a single team spirit and speaks with one voice to citizens and visitors. We have, therefore, opted to develop the new and innovative design of number plates for private vehicles only during Gitex Technology Week in a bid to showcase the new Dubai Brand to various entities, firms, individuals and visitors from all over the globe, and accordingly fulfill the ambitious vision of promoting the brand in a proper manner.

“Applications for the plate can be submitted via a host of electronic channels such as RTA website (www.rta.ae), RTA Call Center (Tel: 8009090), and the smart app. Plates can be handed over through customers service centers and service providers - namely Deira Customers Service Center, Al Barsha Customers Service Center, Al Mumayaz at Aswaq Al Mizhar, Al Mumayaz at Aswaq Al Barsha, Quick Technical Testing at Al Qusais, and Wasil Vehicle Testing Center at Al Jaddaf,” he explained.


1. Go to RTA website (www.rta.ae)

then click on the New plate logo or just click on the following link :

http://traffic.rta.ae/trfesrv/public_resources/public-request-service-info.do?serviceCode=242&entityId=-1&switchLanguage=en

Then click on Agree the terms and conditions.

Click on "Apply for this service"

2. Type your plate number and category and its code

3. Choose the Plate Design ( Small or large )

4. Confirm and choose a date and location to collect

5. Pay 420 DHS

* These Plate are not mandatory and are completely optional

How to Find a Job In Dubai

Dubai is a major destination for expat workers. Every year hundreds of thousands of people consider moving to Dubai to live and work. Dubai is Expanding every year and as more businesses establish there is more need of skilled personnel. Here are some tips to find jobs in Dubai.

1. Have an updated CV/Resume 

It is really important that you keep your CV updated at all times. The more experience you have, the more chance you have to get a job. Add everything you think is important and write and evaluate your resume as if you are going to hire your self.

 Its a added advantage if you have prior work experience in GCC , UAE or western countries.

 It also an added advantage if you are bilingual and specially if you are able to communicate in Arabic language.

Make sure your references are true. Companies do reference check even if you have been working in a small village in a country half way around the world.

Use these methods to find jobs :

1. Bayt.com


Right now go and sign up for an account on Bayt.com. It is one of the most visited sites for searching for jobs in GCC area. Many high profile companies check this site regularly for scanning the job candidates and check their resumes. Make sure you upload your resume. Search for jobs and you can apply for the jobs directly from the website.


2. LinkedIn.com

Linkedin is a social network for professionals. It is a very important tool for networking with co workers and potential employers. Many recruiters search in LinkedIn to check for the candidate profiles and see they're resume online and check their profile.


3. Upload your CV to the companies website

If you wanna stand out from the crowd you need to show your self to your future potential employer. Most of the companies nowadays have websites and on their websites there is a section called 'Careers' thats where you need to Send them Email attach your Resume and cover letter and state that you are interested to work with them and tell them why they should choose you.

4. Network


You have friends working in different companies. Let them know you are looking for a job they might have a friend in HR department of that company and they can refer you to them. Networking is really important in finding a job let people that can find you job know that you are looking for a job and make sure they know your capabilities.

5. Attend Career fairs


They are several career fairs In UAE every year. Of course it is very hard to find job in career fairs because of the number of applicants but the good thing is that you can submit your CV to the companies. Its always good to have your Resume in their Database , who knows maybe someday they contact you.

How to Avoid Traffic In Dubai

Everyday millions of cars commute in Dubai, most of the time there is minimal traffic but like any other major metropolitan Dubai also has its own rush/peak hours that traffics are large and sometimes takes hours for one to reach his/her destination. 

Dubai Major rush hours are : 

6 - 9 AM  --> Dubai/Sharjah Border

5 - 7 PM --> Dubai/Sharjah Border - Sheikh Zayed Road - Jumeirah Road

Knowing the information above it is now easier to consider which roads to go and at what time to go in these routes to avoid heavy traffic. 

1. Use Alternative roads than Sheikh Zayed Road in the Evening.

Sheikh Zayed Road (E11) Is the most important and major road in Dubai. It is the fastest route for many people to reach their destination and it is the first choice for most drivers. However this make it the first place that heavy traffic happens in Dubai. Use Alternative roads such as Al Khail road (E44) or Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (former Emirates Road E311 ). This way you not only you dont need to pay Salik but also you avoid the rush hour of Sheikh Zayed road. Keep in mind that sometimes these alternative routes are also busy but they are usually have less traffic than Sheikh Zayed Road in rush hour.

2. Public Transportation

Yes we all know that. If you can, use public transportation. There is Excellent metro and bus facilities In Dubai. Metro In Dubai has its own Mobile application that you can use to track the timings. The Bus system also caters to places that metro usually is not available.

3. Check traffic before entering your car.

Use Google Maps App, WAZE or any other major traffic app to see the traffic status of the roads you are planning to travel. They can tell you where is the traffic, how long it is. How much time do you need to reach your destination and many other useful information for you to consider before starting your car and choosing your route.

Dubai Tram

The Dubai Tram  is a tramway located in Al Sufouh, Dubai, United Arab Emirates. It will run for 14.5 kilometers (9.0 mi) along Al Sufouh Road from Dubai Marina to the Burj Al Arab and the Mall of the Emirates. The tram interchanges with Jumeirah Lakes Towers Station and Dubai Marina Station of the Dubai Metro's Red Line and two more metro station are expected to connect with the tram in the future. The Dubai Tram will also connect with the monorail of the Palm Jumeirah at the entrance of the Palm from Sufouh Road.

The first section, a 10.6-kilometer (6.6 mi) long tram line which serves 11 stations, was ceremonially inaugurated on 11 November 2014, by H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, The Vice-President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai, with the line officially opening for public service at 6:30 am (UTC 4:30) on 12 November 2014.

Dubai Tram is the first in the world to have platform screen doors at the stations and it is also first tramway project outside Europe powered by ground-based electric supply system.

The Map of Dubai Tram :   (Click for larger photo)















Frequent questions about Dubai Tram :

What are the operational hours of Dubai Tram?

- Weekdays (Saturday to Thursday) – From 6:30 AM to 1:30 AM (the next day). - Fridays – From 9:00 AM to 1:30 AM (the next day).

What is the waiting time between Trams?

Dubai Tram runs every 6 minutes.

How long will the tram doors stay open?

The Tram doors will remain open for 15-20 seconds but longer during rush hours/peak season.

Is there any mobile app available for Dubai Tram?

Yes, you can plan your Dubai Tram journey by downloading the official app “Wojhati”, available for iOS, Android, Blackberry and Windows phones. On Wojhati, you can find details about timings, fares, route maps, etc.

How do I pay for a Tram ride?

Through a nol Card. The same nol Card can be used to pay for the Tram, Metro, water and bus journeys.

Where can I buy a Tram ticket or card?

nol Cards are available at Dubai Metro stations and retail outlets at petrol stations.

What happens if I lose or damage my ticket?

If you lose/damage your ticket, please inform the officials at any Dubai Tram station or call 800-9090 immediately.  It will be replaced but you may have to pay a fine.

Are taxis easily available outside the Tram station?

Yes, taxis are available, as well as  Metros and buses within a short distance from some Dubai Tram stations.

Which Tram stations are integrated with Metro?

The Dubai Tram provides connectivity to Jumeirah Lakes Towers and DAMAC Properties Metro stations. Footbridges provide a direct link between the two adjacent Tram and Metro stations for a smooth and seamless interchange for passengers.

What about access for special needs/elderly?

Yes, for special needs passengers there will be a ramp and special facilities for wheelchairs. Provision will also be made for prams and strollers for entry into the Dubai Tram, as well as inside it.

Can we eat, drink or smoke inside Trams?

Eating, drinking and smoking is strictly prohibited on Dubai Trams. For these violations, a fine of AED 100 is levied.
What are other Violations and Fines applicable for the Tram?


Please be advised of the following violations and fines for Dubai Tram:

▪            Throwing or causing to throw waste on the Tram Tracks Right of Way - AED 500

▪            Crossing the Tram Track anywhere other than the designated areas - AED 1,000

▪            Unauthorised access to a Prohibited Zone - AED 1,000

▪            Taking or attempting to take an action which may interfere with the operation of the Tram, or affect its safety, or the safety of its infrastructure - AED 2,000

Unauthorised interception by any person of the Tram on the Track Right of Way - AED 3,000

Source : RTA - Wikipedia

Shopping malls in Dubai

Dubai city has a very warm climate and that makes it difficult for people to go shopping on the streets. They are street shops in Daira, Bur Dubai and Satwa area but the main shopping attractions of Dubai are located in its various large malls located around the city. They are many malls in Dubai but these few ones stand out from the crowd.

1. Dubai mall




The Dubai Mall is the region's premier shopping, lifestyle and entertainment destination. With more than 1,200 stores and a host of world-class attractions, The Dubai Mall is revolutionizing the modern shopping experience.
With an impressive array of leisure pursuits, this is the ultimate, cutting-edge shopping experience. A range of adventure sports vies for attention alongside the romance of ice-skating. The Dubai Mall is a place where outdoor brunch can be followed by the delights of the big screen and where a 21st century gold souk is set off against a world class aquarium. When was the last time your sortie to the designer stores took place under the watchful eye of a giant sea turtle? Step inside The Dubai Mall and experience a place like no other.



2. Mall of the Emirates

It’s not just a mall, it’s an entire shopping resort! Opened in 2005, Mall of the Emirates boasts to be the ultimate destination in Dubai for shopping, leisure and entertainment.

After you’ve perused the 466 retail stores on offer there is still plenty left to do. Take the kids to Magic Planet, a family entertainment centre complete with games and rides that rivals any theme park. Check out the fourteen screen multiplex cinemas, complete with full reclining chairs. You won’t want to miss out on Ski-Dubai, that world renowned indoor ski slope which is also a part of the complex. After all of this you’ll probably need a good night’s sleep. Don’t worry; there is even a hotel here. Each year around 30 million people visit the mall. There are currently plans for expansion in place, with new retail outlets, commuter links and parking spaces to be available in 2015.

3. City Centre Mirdif

City Centre Mirdif is a super regional shopping mall ideally located on Emirates road and Tripoli street. The mall is a hub of the greater community with extensive provisions of facilities such as dedicated community areas, medical clinics, spa, personal grooming facilities and a fitness centre. With over 430 stores, unique leisure and entertainment attractions and a host of tasty food outlets, City Centre Mirdif is ‘the place for you’.   City Centre Mirdif offers easy access with 3 dedicated bridges and 12 entry and exit points at different levels of its 7,000 vehicle car parks. The shopping mall is the first in the region to follow ecologically friendly and sustainability compliant construction techniques from its early design stages and is in the process of acquiring a LEED certification.   With a gross leasable area extending to 196,000 square metres, City Centre Mirdif will feature world class stores with 200 new and unique to the Northern Emirates. Key anchor stores include Carrefour, VOX Cinemas, Playnation, Debenhams, Emax, Centrepoint, Home Centre and Fitness First.   The Centre’s superior leisure and entertainment offer includes some exciting new concepts to the region. Playnation, a brand new entertainment destination, will umbrella five distinctive brands that include iFLY Dubai - an indoor sky-diving centre, Little Explorers - a children’s edutainment centre, Soccer Circus Dubai - a fully interactive football attraction – first of its kind in the region, Yalla! Bowling - a 12 lane cosmic ten pin bowling attraction featuring advanced video simulation and video games and Magic Planet, the region’s leading family entertainment centre. Together with Aquaplay, a new water-based ‘edutainment’ recreation facility aimed at 2 to 8 year olds and VOX Cinemas with 10 state-of-the-art cinema screens including the first “ExtremeScreen” cinema in the UAE , two Gold Class theatres and 2 RealD Digital screens, City Centre Mirdif will provide a superior leisure and entertainment experience for its shoppers.   City Centre Mirdif is the latest development of Majid Al Futtaim Properties, owner and developer of the Middle East and North Africa’s most impressive shopping malls including Mall of the Emirates and other City Centre brands.  

Source : HotelsinDubai