If you spend one day driving on UAE roads, you’ll begin to count them: Nissan Patrols outside villas, on the highways, at desert camps and waiting at school gates. For the Patrol, the car is more than just a car in the Gulf. It is a part of the culture, a place for families to take their weekends.
Whether you are heading out of town with children, grandparents or a group of friends, it is important to know why. But if you’re interested in giving it a shot, there are Nissan Patrol for rent in many cities around the globe.
What makes the Patrol so loved here
Now it is all about the way people travel in UAE. Most weekend journeys are typically long, on straight, hot roads, with a packed car. The Patrol was designed with that in mind.
The first reason is space. The first reason is space. It’s an all-size SUV, with three levels of seating in most models, and a boot spacious enough for coolers, beach items and luggage. The second is comfort. At highway speed it’s quiet and stable, and the air conditioning copes with the summer.
Then there’s reputation. The Patrol, a proven performer in the region, is a rugged and capable off-roader that performs well under difficult conditions and in heat. It’s a testament to that history that it commands a status that other SUVs can’t match. Many drivers will also say that there’s just something right about being seated high up in a UAE road Patrol.
Three family trips that suit it perfectly
Up to Hatta Mountains. Hatta is an hour and a half outside of the city and provides kayaking on the turquoise dam, easy hiking trails and a heritage village. The roads are great and the Patrol’s ride ensures a comfortable trip out and back.
Over to the East coast. Go over the rocky passes and tunnels in the Hajar Mountains to get to Fujairah and Khor Fakkan at the Gulf of Oman. Good snorkels and seafood by the sea, the coast here is calmer and more greener than in Dubai. It’s a long day and big comfortable car makes the difference.
To a desert sunset. It is unnecessary to venture from the tarmac to see the dunes. Make a drive in the late afternoon along Al Qudra Road, pull over to a picnic area and enjoy the sunset over the sand. It is a favorite among kids and an evening drive away.
The question everyone asks: what about the dunes?
The Patrol is known for dune bashing and so it stands to reason that one might be able to rent a car onto the sand. Read your rental agreement first! The use of off-road conditions and the insurance protection if there is a problem will depend on the rental company; and many contracts limit or prohibit off-road driving.
For true dune driving, opt for a desert safari with experienced drivers and equipment. It’s a skill to drive in the desert. The pressure of tyres, reading sand and recovery techniques all come into play and getting stuck in the dunes in the heat is not a joke.
Is a Patrol the right choice for you?
Not always. A mid-size SUV or a crossover will also work out better for you if you’re two people with light luggage, as it will consume less fuel and park more easily in the city. For large families, having a minivan might be more convenient with the children. If you’re unsure, compare the different car classes on Yango Drive and see SUVs, sedans, economy cars and premium models side by side.
If you are travelling to Dubai with family, one thing is worth of note: Yango Drive operates in both Abu Dhabi and Sharjah as well. In other emirates, you may also be able to find a car to rent or rent from relatives.
A few things to arrange before leaving
Check availability of child seats at booking as this is not standard. Look into how tolls are charged: Salik works in Dubai and Darb in Abu Dhabi. If you’re going on the east coast, consider the mileage restriction, and bring extra water on every excursion from the city.
The Patrol has proven itself to be a space, comfort and reputation that is well suited to UAE roads. As long as you do that within the scope of your rental contract, and leave the dunes to the professionals, you’ll find it to be one of your best family drives ever!
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