Driving in Roundabouts: A Guide to Navigating Roundabouts in the UAE
You’ll find roundabouts (or traffic circles) in nearly every Emirate, especially in Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and the suburban areas of Dubai. They’re designed to reduce stop-and-go traffic, avoid unnecessary traffic lights, and help vehicles move efficiently.
But with different driving habits and cars from all over the world on the road, many drivers get lost in translation when it comes to roundabout driving rules.
Basic Driving in Roundabouts: What You Need to Know
Give Way to the Left
In the UAE, cars inside the roundabout have the right of way. That means if you're approaching a roundabout, look to your left and wait for a safe gap before entering. This is one of the most essential driving roundabout rules.
Use Indicators Properly
Your signal is your voice. It tells other drivers where you're going:
- Right exit (first exit)? Signal right as you approach.
- Straight ahead (second exit)? No signal as you enter, signal right just after passing the first exit.
- Left turn/U-turn (third exit or more)? Signal left when entering, then switch to right as you approach your exit.
Not indicating? That’s one of the biggest causes of confusion on Dubai roundabouts.
Lane Discipline Is Key
Many Dubai roundabouts have multiple lanes, so choose your lane before entering:
- Right lane = right or straight.
- Left lane = left, U-turn, or sometimes straight (check road markings).
Stick to your lane inside the roundabout. Sudden swerving or cutting across lanes causes accidents.
Also Read: Learn Important UAE Traffic & Road Signs and What They Mean
Common Mistakes When Driving Roundabouts
Even experienced drivers slip up. Here are a few things to avoid:
- Entering the roundabout without checking for vehicles in the roundabout
- Not using indicators
- Exiting from the wrong lane
- Hesitating too long and blocking traffic
- Speeding through like it’s a racetrack
Driving in roundabouts doesn’t have to feel chaotic. With a bit of patience and attention to the driving rules, it becomes second nature.
Roundabouts in Dubai: What Makes Them Unique?
Dubai roundabouts can feel more intense than those in quieter Emirates because they
- Have heavier traffic
- They are multi-laned with complex exits
Some roundabouts even have signal-controlled entries. In these cases, follow the traffic lights and signage carefully. If you're new to driving in Dubai roundabouts, practice during off-peak hours to build confidence.
Driving Rules for a Roundabout: Quick Recap
Here's a quick summary of the key roundabout driving rules:
| Rule | What It Means |
| Give way to the left |
Let vehicles already in the roundabout go first |
| Use correct signals |
Signal right to exit, left to stay on |
| Choose the correct lane |
Right lane = right/straight, Left lane = left/U-turn |
| Stay alert |
Watch out for merging vehicles and cyclists |
| Follow road markings |
Especially in large Dubai roundabouts with painted lanes |
Finally, driving around roundabouts doesn’t have to be stressful. Once you learn the driving rules and practice lane discipline, indicators, and patience, it becomes a smooth, even satisfying, part of the driving experience. So next time you're approaching a roundabout in the UAE, take a breath, signal clearly, give way to the left, and drive with confidence.
