Comprehensive Guide to Traffic Signs in the UAE

By: Anas Assaf

January 31,2019

2 min read

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Introduction

As a visitor in Dubai, you should not assume that all the traffic signs you encounter on the roads of the UAE are the same as those you might see elsewhere. While some signs have universally understood meanings, there are also signs with unique interpretations specific to the Emirates. A lack of familiarity with these signs could lead to traffic violations, and understanding their meanings will also facilitate obtaining a driver's license in Dubai if you are unable to transfer your foreign license.

Traffic Control Signs

These signs indicate the direction you should take, along with priority and right of way:

Inverted triangle - Yield
Triangle with pedestrian icon - Stop for pedestrians
Red circle with a white stripe - No entry

Mandatory Signs

These signs show directions that drivers must follow. They are blue circles with arrows indicating mandatory directions, such as:

Upward arrow (straight ahead)
Right (turn right)
Turn right or left (diagonal arrow indicating the opposite direction)
Traffic from both sides (two diagonal arrows pointing in opposite directions)
Roundabout (consecutive arrows in a circular pattern)

Prohibitory Signs

These signs indicate actions that are prohibited for drivers, typically featuring the universal "No" symbol. They include:

No right or left turn (curved arrow pointing in the prohibited direction)
No overtaking (two cars side by side)
No U-turn (inverted U shape)
No honking (horn symbol)
No pedestrians (walking person symbol)
No bicycles (bicycle symbol)

Parking Control Signs

These signs restrict parking to certain times or prohibit it entirely:

Time restriction signs indicate when parking is allowed.
No parking signs appear in red circles with an X symbol in the center.
Parking restriction signs feature a car icon and additional arrows indicating prohibited areas.

Warning Signs

These signs are typically triangular and red, warning drivers of upcoming hazards or anything that requires their attention:

Sign indicating a secondary road intersection from the right
Sign indicating an intersection ahead
Sign indicating a fork in the road ahead
Sign indicating curves in the road
Sign indicating narrow roads

Additional Information

You can download the comprehensive guide from the Roads and Transport Authority for all the information you need regarding traffic signs and laws in the UAE.