Driving in Dubai? There’s an app for that

Practical Driving Tutorials

New drivers as well as those looking at driving more professionally might appreciate the 20 practical lessons this Android app covers — from using the foot pedals and speed awareness to coasting and stopping in traffic. You will also be subjected to the cockpit drill that hopes to provide all the relevant car safety aspects and controls. The app claims to be particularly suitable for driving exams in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the UAE and other countries in the Middle East. Besides, it contains information on driving schools in the region and tricks to help you succeed in your exam, in the very first attempt. Meanwhile, those on the iOS side of the fence can check out the Dubai Driving Licence Course, with all the essential information needed to become a qualified UAE driver.

RTA Dubai (iOS/Android)

While this app includes a list of services and features designed to support roads and public transport users in Dubai, of particular interest to fresh hands behind the wheels is the Driver and Licensing section. Here you can practise the theory test — answering 35 questions within 30 minutes. The app includes a listing of authorised eye testing centres, info on the types of driving licences in Dubai, and a FAQ section that covers the documentation required. Incidentally, the app is also a quick way to pay fines.

Drive Smart (iOS/Android)

How good are you at driving? Do you mind an app telling you the truth – bitter or otherwise? Drive Smart assesses how you are on the road and comes back with customised advice to make your driving safer and fun. The app uses your phone’s sensors to track how you accelerate, brake, the speed at which you drive, or how sharply you turn. You can record your trips, share with your friends, or take part in various driving challenges. And if you drive well, the app awards you virtual coins and trophies. On the flip side, this free app is in beta and has a few rough edges and jerky performance.

IOnRoad

This augmented reality app wants to improve your driving in real time. When you mount it on the windshield, it uses the phone’s GPS, camera and accelerometer to monitor your speed, location and the traffic up ahead. If you are ever in danger of a collision, the app warns you through audio and visual alerts — ideal for times when you are tired or feeling a bit drowsy. IOnRoad delivers lane departure warnings and can recognise passing speed signs – though this bit needs powerful phones. It also claims to be the ultimate car locator by automatically detecting when the car is parked and taking a snapshot of the location.

Drivemode

Distracted driving is a major cause of accidents and Drivemode wants you to focus more on the road and less on the phone. This free Android app does it by using voice commands — you can take calls, answer texts or respond to Facebook and WhatsApp message, simply by talking to the phone. Besides, you can switch to a Do not disturb mode and autoreply to all incoming calls and texts.  The app simplifies the phone interface with a no-look approach that relies on taps, swipes, bright colours and large animations that use peripheral vision.

Driving Licence Road Test Tips

If you ever find your frustration levels rising, follow one of the tips this free Android app — dotted with grammatical errors — has to offer: take three slow deep breaths. It also has a Road and Traffic Signs Test app that quizzes you on major signs.