Driving with children requires additional thought and planning—especially in Dubai, a city with well-developed road infrastructure and a thriving car culture. Car rental Dubai can be the most convenient option for many families, especially when on vacation or in the process of relocating to the city for an extended period. Before embarking on any journey with your child, however, it’s important to familiarize yourself with local laws and understand the basics of ensuring their safety. This guide covers the child seat laws in Dubai, what you should look out for when renting a vehicle with children, and the various considerations you should keep in mind while driving with your child.
From laws and safety standards to practical tips for finding the right rental car, this guide will cover everything you need to know about child safety in rental cars in Dubai. Whether you’re visiting the city for the first time or are returning as an expat, the information in this article will help you keep your children safe and sound as you explore the city.
Why Are Child Seats Necessary in Dubai?
Dubai’s roads are considered some of the safest and most modern in the Middle East. Nevertheless, Dubai’s road traffic can be intense, and the driving culture might not be as familiar to new residents. This means that aside from abiding by the law, child restraints are also a matter of safety. This is especially true when driving on Dubai’s freeways, such as Sheikh Zayed Road, or at peak hours in busy areas near malls and tourist spots.
The Law Regarding Child Seats in the UAE
The UAE government enforces strict rules on how children should be transported in vehicles. Understanding these laws is important to avoid fines and ensure your child’s safety.
Key requirements:
Children under four years old must be placed in an appropriate car seat.
Children under 10 years old or shorter than 145 cm must be seated in the back of the car.
These laws apply to residents and visitors alike. If you rent a car in Dubai, it is your responsibility to make sure the car comes with a car seat that suits your child’s age, weight, and height.
What Kind of Child Seat to Use Depending on Age
Infant Car Seats (0-1 Years Old)
This type of car seat can only be used in a rear-facing position.
Meant for children under 13 kg (approximately)
Provides head and neck support
Convertible Car Seats (1-4 Years)
Can be used in a rear-facing position and later on, in a forward-facing position.
Designed for toddlers up to 18 kg
Booster Seats (4-10 Years)
Booster seats are designed for older children to sit higher.
Ensures that the child sits at a proper height to use the car seatbelt
Designed to be used until the child is large enough to use the car’s seatbelt independently
Each car seat must meet the required safety standards and be installed correctly. If you’re unsure about doing so yourself, ask the rental company to provide assistance when picking up the vehicle or check the manual provided.
Renting a Car Seat in Dubai
Some rental companies in Dubai provide child safety seats as an optional extra. While this can be convenient, you should be aware of what’s included and what to look out for when booking a car seat.
- The seat is clean and free from wear and tear
- It has international safety certification (e.g. ECE R44/04 or ECE R129)
- You specify your child’s age and weight
- You specify what kind of seat you require (rear-facing, convertible, or booster)
- It is available in the size you need (there might be a shortage of specific types of seats, especially during peak travel seasons). Always book the seat in advance
If you’re not sure about renting a car seat, some parents choose to bring their own child seat for young children (particularly infants) to ensure their comfort and safety.
What Is ISOFIX?
ISOFIX refers to the international standard attachment points for child safety seats in passenger cars. Most new vehicles in Dubai are ISOFIX-compatible, which makes it easier to install car seats safely and correctly.
ISOFIX Benefits
It is more secure than car seatbelt-installed seats
Installation is easier and there’s less chance of making a mistake
It decreases the risk of incorrect installation
ISOFIX allows you to check the correct fit
Driving Tips When Traveling with Kids in Dubai
After securing the right vehicle and seat, you can begin driving safely and wisely around the city. Here are some practical tips:
Pre-plan your route
Dubai is a well-mapped city, but sudden turns, Salik toll gates, and one-way roads can throw you off. Use a trusted GPS and avoid last-minute decisions that might distract you while driving with children.
Avoid peak hours
Traffic can be heavy during peak hours, especially in the morning and afternoon, near Downtown, Sheikh Zayed Road, and school zones. Try to plan your travels during off-peak hours to avoid unnecessary stress and spend less time in the car.
Keep essentials handy
Pack snacks, water, wipes, diapers, and entertainment within reach so that you don’t have to stop often and let the kids get restless.
Use sunshades
Dubai can get quite hot, even in winter. Get window shades or ensure that your car has tinted windows to keep your child out of direct sunlight.
Don’t leave your children in the car
This is against the law and extremely dangerous for your child. Temperature rises quickly and can cause heatstroke or worse.
Some families might visit Dubai for a few days before traveling to other Emirates such as Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, or Ras Al Khaimah. Make sure to:
Check your vehicle rental agreement to see if traveling to other Emirates is permitted
Ensure the child seat is correctly installed for highway travel
Remember to stop at designated rest areas. Travel time can take between 1 and 2 hours or more depending on the destination
Longer journeys require more consideration. A vehicle with rear A/C vents, spacious seating, and good suspension will help make your journey more comfortable for the kids.
What to Do in Case of an Accident
Despite all the preparations, things can go wrong. Here’s what to do in case of a minor accident or breakdown with children in the car:
Stay calm: Children will take their cues from you. Stay calm and try to control your emotions so that your child feels safe.
Turn on your hazard lights: Pullover carefully and switch on your hazards.
Call the police: Dial 999 to report the accident or 998 for an ambulance if necessary.
Contact your rental provider: Report the issue and request assistance or a new car
Always keep a small first aid kit in the car and keep the emergency numbers handy
What to Avoid
- Using the wrong seat type: A booster seat is not appropriate for a 2-year-old.
- Incorrect installation: Always check that the seat is installed correctly
- Allowing children to sit in the front: Even if allowed, it is safer to keep children in the back
- Neglecting seatbelt use: Always buckle up even if you’re going on a short ride
- Assuming that car rentals include a seat: Child seats are almost always an optional extra. Don’t assume they will be included
Resources for Parents in Dubai
Dubai is a family-friendly city, and there are several resources to help parents make the right choices:
RTA Dubai website: Find out about the latest traffic laws and child safety requirements
Dubai Police app: Call for help or get access to guidelines
Expat parenting groups: Online communities where parents can share information and experiences about child safety products and services
Check these resources when planning your trip so that you can drive around the city comfortably and safely.
Final Thoughts
Child safety should never be an afterthought—especially if you’re driving in a new city. Dubai has great infrastructure and modern vehicles, but it’s up to you as a parent or caregiver to ensure that children are transported safely and comfortably.
Whether you’re staying in Dubai for a short holiday or relocating to the city for an extended period, think about car rentals in Dubai and focus on child-friendly features. From selecting the right vehicle and seat type to following safety laws and implementing driving tips, there are several ways to make sure your child stays safe on the road.
If you’re staying in Dubai for a longer period, research rental packages that include additional child seat accessories or even a monthly package. A little preparation and consideration go a long way to balancing comfort, safety, and convenience. Remember that when it comes to children, no precaution is too much. By preparing ahead of time and making informed choices, you can ensure that your family’s experience in Dubai is both memorable and safe.