Roundabout Rules in UAE: A Complete Driving Guide

Roundabouts are circular intersections that are intended to maintain smooth traffic flow.  Adhering to the regulations lowers the chance of accidents, guarantees safety, and avoids traffic bottlenecks.  They depend on drivers being aware of who has priority, when to signal, and which lane to exit in.

Keep an eye out for the roundabout warning signs, usually a blue circle with white arrows pointing in a circular motion. These signs indicate that a roundabout is ahead and give you time to slow down, check lanes, and prepare for your exit.

Before you enter, choose the lane that matches your intended exit:

• Right lane for first exits or U-turns
• Left or middle lanes for later exits or continuing straight

Picking the correct lane early prevents last-minute lane changes, which are a common cause of accidents.

Always yield to vehicles already inside the roundabout. You only need to stop if there’s a risk of collision. Remember, roundabouts are designed to keep traffic moving, so unnecessary stopping can be dangerous.

1. Slow down as you approach and check signs for your exit.
2. Choose the correct lane based on where you want to go.
3. Yield to traffic inside the roundabout.
4. Enter safely when there’s a gap.
5. Signal before taking your exit to alert other drivers.
6. Exit smoothly and merge with traffic, maintaining a safe speed.

• First Exit: Use the right lane and signal right early.
• Second Exit: You can stay in the right lane if your exit is next, or use the left lane if continuing further.
• Third and Fourth Exit: Stay in the left lane, signal right before exiting, and merge carefully.
   

• First Exit: Always take the right lane and signal early.
• Second Exit: Use the middle or right lane, then signal right before leaving the roundabout.
• Third and Fourth Exit: Use the left lane and signal right as you prepare to exit.

For U-turns or multiple exits, stay in the left lane, signal appropriately, and be aware of other vehicles that may be crossing lanes.

Consider the following do’s and don’ts when driving around a roundabout: 

Do:

• Signal before exiting
• Yield to traffic inside the roundabout
• Maintain a steady speed

Don’t:

• Change lanes inside the roundabout
• Stop unnecessarily
• Tailgate other vehicles

Below are some extra safety tips for driving to keep in mind when driving in roundabouts: 

• Keep your eyes on lane markings and signs.
• Watch for motorcycles and smaller vehicles in blind spots.
• Reduce your speed before entering and avoid sudden braking inside the roundabout.

Common roundabout mistakes include the following:

• Picking the wrong lane for your exit
• Forgetting to signal before exiting
• Stopping inside the roundabout without a valid reason
• Ignoring vehicles already inside the roundabout

Breaking roundabout rules can lead to:

• Fines of AED 400–800
• Black points on your license
• Vehicle impoundment for repeated violations

No, only stop if there’s a risk of collision. Always yield to traffic inside the roundabout.

For the right turn, you need to use the right lane. For the left turn or straight, use the left or middle lane depending on your exit.

Stay in the roundabout and continue to the next exit safely. Never reverse inside a roundabout.

Yes, though markings and signs may vary slightly, the basic rules are consistent.

The four rules of roundabout include the following: 

1. Yield to vehicles already inside
2. Choose the correct lane before entry
3. Signal before exiting
4. Maintain a steady speed

Roundabouts are smaller, have yield-at-entry rules, and are designed for smoother traffic flow. Traffic circles are usually larger with stop signs and less controlled movement.

You can signal right when taking the first exit. And you can signal right just before exiting for all other turns. Turn off your signal while circulating until approaching your exit.