Driving in Abu Dhabi
Hi Rachel,
Driving in the UAE is definitely an art; I am a UK license holder like yourself and the switch from left to right is not very difficult at all. The roads in the UAE are mostly long and straight and in tip-top condition, most junctions light controlled, so, it should be plain-sailing...
it's the DRIVERS here that are a nightmare... So many different cultures in one place who have all learned to drive in different settings and to varying standards. There are also a lot of big, powerful cars on the roads and it can be intimidating.
That said; if you just remain calm, remember that any offensive gestures, physical or verbal can land you in a lot of hot water, however mild - we are all guests in the UAE afterall - you should have no problem whatsoever. And with petrol being as cheap as it is, I would highly recommend you bite the bullet and take to the roads as taxis are expensive, and public transport is non existant in the Capital.
You can also swap your own license for a UAE one without taking a test - your overseas one will be valid for about 6 months.
Hope that helps!
xo