Driving in the Middle East can be a bit of a tricky thing to some, while to others (in all likelihood the somewhat more aggressive, talkative and seasoned drivers) it almost comes naturally. Either way, driving in the Arab world is an experience in itself. Here are some tips to help you fit in. If they seem strange to you, just remember that without heeding my advice, you’d look like a total foreigner. ;)

  • Never stop, except for red lights. Don’t stop to let cars pass on roundabouts or at intersections, but always have the car creeping forward. In doing so, you will at some point subtly block the road for other drivers, allowing a safe passage for you.
  • Drive with one hand at the horn. Use it. People rarely use their mirrors properly, so always be ready to honk.
  • Don’t count on the fact that just because you come from the right, you go first. It just doesn’t work like that. The one to arrive at an intersection first and/or honks first, goes first. Oh, and use your lights to signal as well.
  • Get proper car insurance. Always wear your seat belt. (…)
  • When being driven in a taxi, try to wear a seatbelt (I say try to, because a lot of the taxis are in a shape that would classify them as junk: a seatbelt is a luxury). A third of the taxi drivers is actually capable of proper driving, another third is too old/blind/deaf, and the last third are reckless speeders. Prepare for impact.
  • Don’t worry about speeding cameras. They’re very few in number, and usually overgrown by the leaves of nearby trees.
  • Pimp your ride. Even the most family-oriented car should have a rally wheel and spinning rims in Amman. Don’t forget purple neon for under your car and fluorescent blue lights where your headlights should be.

Feel free to comment if you think of some more rules of the road! :)