Middle East Road Expert Shares Top Driving Techniques!
Driving in the Middle East presents unique challenges, from intense desert heat to busy city traffic and vast stretches of open desert roads. Here are some expert tips for driving safely and effectively across this varied landscape:
### 1. **Master Desert Driving Techniques**
- **Deflate Tires on Sand:** Lowering tire pressure (typically around 15-18 PSI) improves traction on soft sand. Remember to re-inflate once back on paved roads.
- **Avoid Sudden Moves:** Smooth, gradual steering and acceleration keep you from getting stuck in loose sand.
- **Stay on Top of Dunes:** When driving over dunes, keep momentum without accelerating aggressively, and always approach dunes at a slight angle rather than straight on.
### 2. **Respect City Traffic Patterns**
- **Drive Defensively:** Middle Eastern cities can have aggressive drivers, so staying alert and allowing more following distance helps avoid sudden stops or swerves.
- **Mind the Right Lane:** In several cities, slower vehicles, including trucks and buses, may use the right lane. Stick to the left for faster traffic if you’re keeping pace.
### 3. **Prepare for Long Highway Stretches**
- **Keep an Emergency Kit:** Include essentials like water, a first-aid kit, flares, and extra fuel when driving between cities, as long stretches may have few services.
- **Beware of Flash Floods:** In areas prone to flash flooding, avoid wadis (dry riverbeds) during rain. If rain is in the forecast, consider an alternate route.
### 4. **Know the Rules in Each Country**
- **Local Traffic Laws:** Traffic laws and driving customs can vary significantly across the Middle East. Knowing the specific regulations, speed limits, and penalties for each country helps avoid surprises.
### 5. **Plan for the Weather**
- **High Temperatures:** Check your car's cooling system and keep fluids (engine oil, coolant) topped up. Always have plenty of water, as temperatures can rise quickly.
- **Dust Storms:** In a dust storm, slow down, use headlights, and keep a safe following distance. If visibility drops too low, pull over and wait for the storm to pass.
With the right techniques and some preparation, driving in the Middle East can be an exhilarating experience-offering everything from desert adventures to the excitement of bustling city streets.