How the Dubai Auto Show Shapes Global Automotive Industry Trends

Dubai International Motor Show is the largest auto show in the Middle East and one of the most significant global events for the automotive industry, held every two years. Leading car manufacturers from around the world, including Ferrari, Lamborghini, Rolls-Royce, and BMW, gather here to showcase their latest innovations, concepts, and limited-edition models. The exhibition not only displays luxury vehicles but also serves as a platform for cutting-edge technologies, featuring electric vehicles, hybrids, autonomous driving systems, and energy-efficient solutions.

Visitors can experience new cars through test drives and immerse themselves in virtual reality, trying out models that are yet to hit the roads. Additionally, workshops are held where professionals discuss the latest trends in safety, digitalization, and sustainability. The UAE actively supports the development of "smart" technologies, and the Dubai Auto Show offers a glimpse into the early stages of this transformation. The Dubai International Motor Show not only reflects current trends in the automotive world but also shows where the industry is heading and how the UAE is strengthening its market position by implementing advanced technologies and eco-friendly solutions.

#dubaiautoshow #futurecars #DubaiMotorShow #autoinnovations #electrocarsuae

In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the car rental market offers a wide range of models, from economical sedans to luxury sports cars. Choosing the right car depends on your needs, budget and planned itineraries.

Popular models for rent:

• Экономичный класс: Compact and fuel-efficient models such as the Kia Picanto, Nissan Sunny and Hyundai Elantra are often chosen for city trips and short distances. These vehicles offer low fuel consumption and easy parking in urban areas.
• Middle Class: If you're planning longer trips or traveling with your family, consider a mid-size sedan like the Toyota Camry or Honda Accord. They offer more space and comfort.
• SUV: For traveling through desert terrain or if you prefer a higher level of comfort, models such as the Nissan Patrol, Toyota Land Cruiser and Mitsubishi Pajero are popular. These vehicles offer excellent off-road capability and a spacious interior.
• Luxury and sports cars: For those who want to emphasize status or get a special driving experience, premium models such as Lamborghini Urus, Ferrari 812 Superfast and Rolls Royce Wraith Black Badge are available. Renting such cars allows you to enjoy power and elegance on UAE roads.

Recommendations for choosing an automobile:

• Purpose of the trip: If you plan to travel mostly in the city, a compact or mid-size sedan will suffice. If you plan to travel mostly in the city, a compact or mid-size sedan will suffice.
• Budget: Determine your rental budget. Economy models will be cheaper, while luxury cars will be more expensive to rent.
• Number of passengers and luggage: Take into account the number of people and the amount of luggage. For larger companies or families with children, more spacious cars are suitable.

What to consider:

• Deposit and Insurance: Renting a car in the UAE usually requires a deposit, which may be blocked on your credit card. Make sure you have sufficient funds and that you understand the terms and conditions for returning the deposit. It is also advisable to check insurance details and possible deductibles.
• Documents: A valid national driver's license and an International Driving Permit (IDP) are required to rent a car in the UAE. Some companies may require additional documents such as passport and credit card.
• Lease terms: Carefully review the rental agreement, including mileage restrictions, car return policy, and possible penalties for damage or delayed return.

Choosing a car rental in UAE should be based on your individual needs and preferences. Carefully evaluate all options and conditions to ensure a comfortable and safe journey.

How and Where to Obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) for Renting and Driving a Car in 180 Countries

 What is an International Driving Permit?

The International Driving Permit (IDP), , issued by the International Drivers Association, is an international document that serves as an official translation of your National Driving License for driving and renting a car abroad. This document is formatted as an A6 booklet and complies with the standards of the Vienna Convention on Road Traffic. It contains translations in 11 languages.

The Driver's ID - Card (ID)

The Driver's ID - Card (ID) — is an official document from the International Drivers Association that complements the IDP with important information:

- Driving Experience: In some car rental companies, this may affect the deposit amount and help obtain discounts on car insurance policies.

- Registered Address: This speeds up the process of filling out police reports.

- QR Code: Scanning this code allows you to quickly access the Central Austrian Database to verify your IDP status and download an electronic version of your document.

This card is available only to members of the International Drivers Association and is valid only in conjunction with the IDP booklet.

Why do you need an IDP?

An International Driving Permit is necessary for drivers who plan to travel abroad for vacation or business and want to rent a car. The IDP must be presented to car rental companies as well as to traffic police officers during document checks to avoid potential fines.

How to get an IDP?

Online Application

To apply for an International Driving Permit online, contact us via WhatsApp at the following numbers:

+971 50 235 05 81

+971 50 751 73 11

Alternatively, visit the IDP Issuance Department's page and click the "Apply for IDP" button on the homepage. Then follow these simple steps:

1. Fill out the first page of the form and select the required service.

2. Enter your personal details, having a passport photo and your driving license ready.

3. Attach the necessary documents and provide your electronic signature.

4. Pay for the service using your preferred method.

Important: Make sure you provide a valid phone number on the application form so that our managers can contact you promptly upon completion of the application process.

Cost of Issuance

$99 – incomplete set (IDP booklet)

$139 – complete set: International Driving License (IDP booklet) + ID card

* Delivery in Dubai - immediate upon issuance, payable separately. 

* Delivery within the UAE and other countries is payable separately.

A New Step Towards a Sustainable Transport Future

Electric vehicles are rapidly gaining popularity in the UAE, with the market actively adapting to this new wave of sustainable transportation. Interest is growing in models from manufacturers such as Tesla, Nissan, Hyundai, as well as newcomers like Lucid and BYD. Alongside this, UAE authorities are making significant strides to expand the charging station infrastructure: DEWA stations are appearing across the country, and new developments and shopping centers are integrating them into their plans. To support eco-friendly transportation, the government also offers incentives like free parking and charging for the first two years, exemption from fees, and privileges in designated lanes. In the coming years, autonomous vehicles, including driverless taxis, are expected to strengthen the UAE's position as a leader in automotive technology in the Middle East.

The UAE is also working to implement autonomous driving technologies and internet-connected vehicles, marking the next step in the evolution of transportation. In the coming years, pilot programs featuring autonomous taxis and public transport are planned, solidifying the UAE's leadership in smart transportation. This shift may also stimulate new investments in research and manufacturing centers within the region.

#SustainableTransport #ElectricVehiclesUAE #GreenMobility #FutureOfTransport #EcoDriving

New prices for petrol that won't leave you dissatisfied

The UAE’s Fuel Price Regulation Committee has announced that fuel prices will be reduced in October compared to September’s rates, which will be welcome news for motorists.

Starting October 1, Super 98 petrol will be priced at 2.66 AED per liter, down from 2.90 AED in September, offering significant savings for those who prefer high-octane fuel. Special 95 petrol will also see a decrease, now priced at 2.54 AED per liter compared to 2.78 AED last month. Meanwhile, E-Plus 91 petrol will cost 2.47 AED per liter, down from 2.71 AED in September.

Diesel prices have also been adjusted, dropping to 2.6 AED per liter from September’s rate of 2.78 AED per liter. This reduction in fuel prices aligns with global trends in the oil market. In September, the average price of Brent crude was approximately USD 73 per barrel, compared to USD 78.63 in August. The price decline is attributed to increased market supply, including plans by Saudi Arabia to boost oil production, which has stabilized prices.

It’s worth noting that in the UAE, fuel prices are reviewed monthly. The fuel committee assesses current market conditions each month and sets new petrol and diesel rates accordingly. Announcements are made on the last day of each month, allowing timely adjustments to reflect global market trends and provide residents with competitive fuel prices.

Key tips for tourists on how to follow traffic rules in the UAE to avoid fines and road problems while travelling by road.

How to Avoid Fines and Road Problems in the UAE

To avoid fines and keep your vacation in Dubai pleasant, it’s essential to know the key traffic rules in the United Arab Emirates. Let’s review the main points and current fine amounts.

Speed Limits

In the city, the speed limit is 60 km/h.

On highways, the limit is 100-120 km/h, depending on the road and signs 

If a speed limit sign is posted, you must strictly follow the indicated limit. Fines for exceeding the speed limit start from 300 AED and can go up to 3,000 AED, depending on how much the limit was exceeded.

Tolerance for Speeding

There is an allowed speeding tolerance of 20 km/h. For example, if the speed limit is 60 km/h, a fine will only be issued if your speed exceeds 80 km/h.

Seat Belts

All passengers, including children, must wear seat belts. The fine for not wearing a seat belt is 400 AED, plus 4 black points on your driving record.

Right-hand Driving

- Dubai, like all Emirates, follows right-hand driving. However, the rule of "priority from the left" is applied, which often causes accidents for tourists unfamiliar with the system.

Required Documents

- To rent and drive a car, you must have both your national driving license and an International Driving Permit (IDP). The IDP must be registered in the RTA (Road & Transport Authority) database. The absence of an IDP can result in a fine of up to 5,000 AED.

Using Mobile Phones While Driving

- Using a phone while driving is strictly prohibited. The fine for this violation is 800 AED, plus 4 black points. This rule also applies to applying makeup or smoking while driving.

Transporting Children

- Children under 4 years old must be seated in a child safety seat. The fine for non-compliance is 400 AED.

Violation Detection

- Keep in mind that Dubai's roads are equipped with cameras and radars that capture any violations, including speeding and parking infractions.

By following these recommendations, you can avoid fines and enjoy safe driving in the UAE.

The pitfalls of the practical driving test in the UAE or how to pass the exam at once?

Currently, more and more foreign citizens are getting a UAE resident visa, which hides some subtleties for drivers.

If you have previously traveled to the UAE and driving a rented car, МВУ, it is enough to have the national driving license of your citizenship country, additionally with an IDP. But after obtaining an Arab residence permit, you will certainly have to pass exams and get a local driver's license. By the way, this procedure is not just complicated, but also quite expensive.

If you still decide to take exams in the UAE, then our advice described below will save you from failure and retake with a 100% guarantee. Not any driving school will tell you about these subtleties, because they are all collected from our own experience and we are happy to share them with you.

So, preparation for the practical exam (all the actions you perform must be seen by the examiner):

If the examiner invited you to get in the car, but he hasn't sat down yet, wait for him and don't touch anything yet. 

Before the exam starts, when you get into the car with a police officer, be sure to tighten the handbrake (even if it is tightened so that the examiner will definitely see it).

The next step is to adjust the location of the driver's seat, even if it is ideally located for you, you still need to correct it at least a little, thereby showing the police examiner a responsible attitude and attention to driving a car.

After setting up the seat, you also need to adjust the rear-view mirror and side mirrors with both hands, again, if they are comfortably located for you, you should still pay attention to this.

Next, be sure to fasten your seat belt and ask everyone sitting in the car to do the same (you need to say “Fasten your seat belts”), after that, by all means check whether everyone is really buckled.

Then put your hands on the steering wheel and tell the policeman that you are ready to take the exam (you should say “I am ready”) and from that moment until the end of the exam, both your hands should always be on the steering wheel.

Passing the exam

* Please note that the student is required to drive only in the right lane when passing the exam.

* Drive to the roadway - most likely the car will stand in such a way that you will need to reverse out of the parking space and be sure to turn on the turn signal from the side where you will leave. Attention, when moving backwards, you do not need to turn on the emergency light, as is customary in the CIS countries, you only need a turn signal.

* HEAD CHECK - As in many other countries, there is such an item in the UAE traffic rules, which is called HEAD CHECK (in some countries it may be called Shoulder Check). 

HEAD CHECK implies the need to make certain head movements when moving to another lane or turning in one direction or another or other maneuvers. Namely, look first in the rear-view mirror, then turn your head and look in the side mirror to the side where you turn, then turn your head even harder and look out the passenger rear window, so that your chin touches the shoulder, and finally return your look in the rear-view mirror.

If you didn't look around exactly in this sequence before the maneuver, it is quite possible that you have already failed the exam.

* Circular traffic is standard at roundabouts in the UAE includes 2 lanes, external and internal, so when driving here it is necessary to take into account the row and the turning on of the turning signals:

1st exit to the right - if you need to turn right, in this case the movement should be in the outer lane and the right turn signal turns on immediately at the entrance to the circular.

2nd exit straight and to the right - if you need to drive straight, in this case the movement should also be in the outer lane, but the right turn signal does not turn on immediately at the entrance to the ring, but when you have already passed the 1st exit and are ready to move out of the roundabout.

3rd exit to the left and 4th exit U-turn - if you need to go left, then the movement is already in the inner lane, at the entrance the left turn signal immediately turns on, and at the exit it switches to the right to show the intention to move out.

Note an important nuance, before leaving the roundabout in this case, you do NOT need to change to the lane!

* * Turn signal - if you are driving on the main road, but it bends (a long turn) and goes to the right, then you still need to turn on the turn signal.

* The speed limit is 60 km/h on wide roads (from 2 lanes in one direction), in this case you need to go a little less, because if the speed is 61, then this is already a violation for the examiner. On two-way roads with one lane in one direction and a second lane in the other - 40 km/h. There are no pointers - you just need to know! 

If you are driving along Service road (technical pockets with parking lots) - the traffic should be from 30 to 40 km.

* Parking - the examiner may ask you to park the car parallel to the front or at an angle of 45 degrees, less often it is possible to park on the ground. Moreover, the examiner may ask you to park anywhere. Before you make a parking maneuver, you definitely need to make a Head Check. When you have already parked, it is necessary to put the transmission on the parking lot and tighten the handbrake. If there is unpaved Parking, then you also need to turn on the emergency light.

* Emergency signal - if you miss a pedestrian at a zebra crossing and your car is the first before crossing, it is necessary to turn on the emergency light. Also, if you miss a large car that leaves (or turns around blocking your path) from the adjacent territory, you also need to stop and turn on the emergency light. 

* Sound signal - if you see a pedestrian walking (or riding a scooter) along the road with his back to your direction of driving, then you also need to inform him with a quiet sound signal that you are approaching.

* Distance between cars - it is necessary to keep the distance between cars such that the car in front of you can be seen entirely, including the wheels.

* Additional information - when driving a car, both your hands should always be on the steering wheel, and it is advisable not to cross them during maneuvers, since they will definitely take a point for this. 

* Attention! It is worth remembering that sunglasses and shorts are prohibited on the exam.

Good luck!

How to get a residence visa in UAE

What is a residence visa

This is a visa that entitles its holder to reside in the UAE for a long period of time and freely enter and leave the country an unlimited number of times, until the visa expires.

Ways to obtain a UAE resident visa:

Official employment in the UAE

Opening your own company

Acquisition of real estate

Получение рабочей визы в ОАЭ 

Entry Permit, or work permit for entry into the UAE, is issued by a local company in the UAE, a scan of the document is sent to the employee by e-mail. 

Passing through passport control at the UAE airport must be done with the original entry permit, that is, the entry mark must be placed on the entry permit itself.

After entering under the entry permit, the worker must paste the visa into the passport within 60 days. During this time, you need to have time to pass a medical test, pass your fingerprints and get an Emirates ID, sign a work contract, and submit a full package of documents for pasting a visa into your passport.

How to start your own business

To obtain an investor visa, if you are a business owner, you will need to go through the following steps:

Register a company in your name

Get an immigration card 

Apply for an entry permit 

Apply for an Emirates ID card and undergo a medical examination

Submit your passport for visa stamping

If you have visited the UAE at least once, then during the first three stages you are not necessarily in the UAE. But in order to pass a medical examination, apply for an Emirates ID and stick a visa in your passport, you will need to be present in person. To do this, your passport will be sent to the migration office and you will not be able to leave the UAE until the process is completed.

Features of obtaining a residence permit through the purchase of real estate in Dubai:

1. To obtain a resident visa for 3 years with the possibility of extension, the cost of the purchased apartment should be from 750 thousand to 5 million dirhams per person or family. If the cost of housing is more than 5 million dirhams, then a visa is issued for 5 years.

2. The accommodation must be in a final building and fully owned by the client.

3. The property must be intended for habitation.

4. To obtain a residence permit, the property owner must confirm a monthly income in a certain amount (from 2,860 USD).

5. Buyer must be under 55 years of age. If the client is older, then you will need to obtain a special agreement allowing you to obtain a resident visa.

The process of obtaining residency in the UAE is not the fastest and while you are completing the documents, you will have to move around the city a lot. Taxis in the UAE, in particular in Dubai, are among the most expensive in the world, public transport is inconvenient and not always available, so the most popular option is car rental, especially given the huge number of car rental companies. At the same time, not everyone knows that in the UAE, in order to rent and drive a car, it is necessary to have an International Driving License in addition to the National License. This is due to tightening requirements from the local Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). 

Getting an International Driver's License is actually very simple, you just need to contact the International Drivers Association fill out an online form and get it on the same day without passing any exams. The resulting document will be valid not only in the UAE, but also in 170 countries of the world, because it complies with the standards of the UN conventions “On Road Traffic”. The current status of the document can be checked in the Central Austrian database of the IDL. Since the organization is licensed by the Ministry of Economy and Tourism of Dubai and cooperates with local transport authorities, it will be possible to rent a car in absolutely any rental car. 

In recent months, a large number of foreigners have received resident status in the UAE. If you prepare all the necessary documents, the process will be easy. Good luck!

Chinese car brands are rapidly gaining ground in the Saudi Arabian market, offering affordable, technologically advanced, and stylish vehicles. Their growing popularity aligns with the Vision 2030 program and the country's push for economic diversification.

Chinese Cars in Saudi Arabia on the Rise

Chinese cars are making a remarkable leap in the Saudi Arabian automotive market, rapidly capturing market share from established Japanese, Korean, European, and American brands. Offering unbeatable value for money, enhanced technology, and sleek designs, Chinese brands are redefining consumer expectations and solidifying their presence in the Kingdom.

Key Factors Behind the Success:

1. Доступность и функциональность: Китайские автомобили предлагают исключительные возможности по цене, значительно ниже, чем у конкурентов.

2. Технологичность: Оборудованные передовыми технологиями, эти автомобили включают умные функции в стандартной комплектации.

3. Расширенные гарантии: Некоторые бренды предоставляют гарантии до десяти лет, что повышает доверие потребителей к надежности.

4. Привлекательный дизайн: Современные и стильные китайские автомобили выделяются своим внешним видом, что привлекает внимание на дорогах.

With an impressive annual growth rate of 20-30%, Chinese brands like Changan, Geely, MG, Chery, Great Wall Motor, Hongqi, GAC, and BYD are dominating, now holding 12% of new vehicle sales in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, compared to less than 1% in 2017. Sales in Saudi Arabia alone surged 16.9% in 2023, reaching 729,466 units.

This growth is aligned with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 initiative, which seeks to diversify the economy away from oil. Chinese automakers are seizing this opportunity, with eight brands already establishing branches in the Kingdom, and more on the way. Additionally, China's Human Horizons signed a $5.6 billion deal with the Saudi Ministry of Investment to manufacture electric vehicles locally.

The swift rise of Chinese cars serves as a reminder that no brand's dominance is secure. Just as Japanese and Korean brands once revolutionized the market, Chinese automakers are positioning themselves as the next big contenders in Saudi Arabia's fast-evolving automotive landscape.

Car rental risks

Car rental services are becoming more and more popular among tourists in absolutely different countries. Somewhere this is due to the variety and luxury of the cars offered, convenience in moving. However, in some countries, car rental is not a tourist's whim, but simply a necessity, due to the lack of alternative modes of transportation. 

But is everything as simple and safe as it looks like at first glance?

Often car rental companies, especially small local ones, are not completely honest and try in every possible way to deceive a tourist in order to earn as much as possible from a careless vacationer. It is important to remember about possible risks and be really attentive when renting a car.

- Non-refundable deposit - in fact, any deposit that is blocked on your card by the rental company, when returning the car, must be refunded. However, some dishonest car rentals block a deposit on your card, and when returning the car, they assure that the block will be removed from the amount on the card in a couple of days, and you should not worry, you can safely fly home. However, after a while, instead of removing the block, the amount of money itself is debited from the card.

– The contract - a life hack with the indication of the most unacceptable points in the contract in small print has long been familiar to everyone. And really, who would want to spend precious vacation time on a thorough reading of hundreds of points of the contract? Here we still recommend studying all points of contract, so that the vacation does not end with an unpleasant surprise in the form of a fine for violating any clause of the contract.

Insurance - most often rental companies assure that the cost of renting a car already includes an insurance policy, but as practice shows, in most such cases, this insurance has many restrictions and is single-sided. It is best to apply for a full coverage policy, which includes the risks of theft, accident and other various incidents.

- Mileage restriction - is a common practice for car rentals, when a daily mileage limit is set for each car, which companies often forget to warn about. Most often, this limit is 200 km per day. As a result, you are carelessly riding a rented car, and a small fine is already dripping for exceeding the mileage.

- The process of transferring and receiving a car - is perhaps the most important point that you should pay close attention to. When getting a car from a rental company, you need to inspect the car as carefully as possible, both outside and inside, in order to avoid additional penalties when returning the car. Moreover, we recommend recording a full inspection on video. Unscrupulous companies often do not note in the special act of receiving and transferring the car some old scratches or dents or breakdowns that you might not have noticed during inspection. There are cases when such violations are even specially prepared by car rental employees (most often these are some kind of electrical malfunctions that simply cannot be noticed during inspection). But, when you return the car, the rentacar staff will definitely not miss them and will issue a decent fine for damage. In addition, it is worth remembering that the rented car must be returned exactly at the fixed hour, as clean and with the same amount of gasoline in the tank as when receiving it.

And yet, despite all the pitfalls of the rental business, it is worth noting that there are definitely many advantages to renting a car abroad, most important of all is your own comfort and convenience. And of course, do not forget that to drive a car abroad, you need to have both a national driving license and an international driving permit..