Driving experience in Dubai

Well after our driving experience in India...definitely driving on Dubai roads is a pleasure and an experience in itself...Infrastructure is better, roads smoother, signage in place and people on the road more disciplined. Road sense and sense of responsibility is definitely higher among people here. People drive in their respective lanes and give way to you if you happen to need to change lanes urgently. Well exceptions are always there....by exceptions I mean people who are rash, overtake without indicators and have no discipline. So you have to be very alert and pro-active while driving. One thing I realized, if I follow the traffic rules diligently, half the problem is solved. So if each of us thinks similarly, driving would be such a pleasure...
If one is not familiar with the roads and correct exits, you can go on rides longer than you might have planned. I decided that if I have to reach my destination as scheduled  than Mr. GPS is going to bail me out....so our first investment after the car for getting a GPS. But as we did not get it synced at the store and tried doing it online....each time we have headed out, we have still managed to get lost....roads and exits are confusing, lanes merge and diverge any minute and at any corner and the road layouts are changing by the day due to forever increasing traffic and constructions of flyovers to accommodate them.
A few times we have got lost, the navigation system on our smartphones have bailed us out. I feel that one shouldn't venture out alone if one is new in the city....I find it safer to drive when my husband is the co passenger. That way he keeps a track of the route and actively navigates. This way chances of losing way or making blunders is bleak. I have been nervous while on the road but I'm sure if I drive regularly I definitely will get the hang of the routes and this will boost my confidence.
My biggest achievement was, in the initial days driving from one end of Dubai to the other end, Oud Metha to Discovery Garden....and quite confidently. So covering a stretch of almost 80 Kms in a day was a morale booster for me and with minimal mistakes. I know regular practice is only going to make me a better driver...I look forward to now driving to my daughters'schools. All the hassles we have gone through trying to get a cab when we were new are now going to be taken care of. So many more Happy & Safe Driving experiences in Dubai....I look forward...

Reasons to fail an RTA road test

Whenever the topic of discussion is "licence" in any conversation, it is fun to hear the experiences of different people. Everyone has a unique story to tell....number of attempts to get a driving licence and reasons for failing each time.  Some blame it on the traffic conditions that day, some on lack of confidence but most people blame the RTA examiners mood as the main reason. It's funny to hear these various takes on their failure.
Sitting in ladies waiting room in Belhasa Driving Center on many occasions. ..I got talking to many others like me. They would share their fears and failures. All of us were sailing in the same boat.  The reactions of the RTA officers they shared were quite scary.  One common reaction of most students was..."shivering with fear". I think that was one of the most common reasons of failure. The moment we let fear take over us...We tend to give up our spirit to fight or even try. So I feel fear , lack of confidence and nervousness are main causes of failing an RTA road test...and any test for that matter.
Other things are very technical I feel.Starting with the time you take over the driver's seat...you need to be in full control. Most important things to check are seat belts. .of self and Co passengers. Next mirror checks play a very important role. Correct positions will help you to be in control in the road and drive safely keeping a tab on approaching traffic from all sides. Another reason I heard from a few was indication on dashboard wasn't seen for an open door...If you haven't done that..It's an immediate failure from the RTA.
Keeping safe distance,  indicators in advance,  giving way, mandatory stopping at "STOP" signs, mirror check, shoulder check, maintaining speed limits, correct entry into roundabouts ...These are some of the important nuances of safe driving. If you get them right during your practice sessions...final RTA test is a cakewalk.  
Then comes the most crucial part of the road test. Lane change and entry onto the main road from a slip road. Most students fail as they get confused with the approaching traffic..so either they delay the same, forget to do mirror and shoulder check or even lower the speed. Krishna drilled it into me to be careful with these three aspects...and I am glad I got it correct when I appeared for my final road test.
There is no shortcut to success....getting a licence in one go is not the agenda here...The main concern is to drive safely and remember all that the instructor has taught you during the practice sessions....bring into practice what you are taught. Let go of fears when you appear for the test...remember the basics and you can't go wrong. And let me tell you one last thing...It is a myth that your success to get a licence after passing the road test depends on the RTA officers mood....no ways...they cannot let you risk the lives of others with your ignorance and carelessness. ...so go out there. ...keep the basics in mind, pass the RTA road test and enjoy your freedom behind the wheels....

My first drive

Once the licence was in hand, eagerness to start driving was very high....so time to decide on the car...a big decision as the options this place offers you can drive you nuts. Then budget plays an important role apart from feasibility. We decided on an eight seater as Dubai being a tourist destination and more of a shopper's paradise, we were bound to have guests over. So we went to Automall, Al Futtaim highly recommended by friends living in Dubai for reconditioned car as a first new car didn't make sense.  We shortlisted Prado and then a Pathfinder. But on second thoughts we found them two big to maneuver and for everyday use it didn't make sense. Moreover in Dubai we have options to Rent-a-car at very easy to affordable rental, so if you have guests over its the best to hire one.
So finally we shortlisted RAV4 and are proud owners today and I'm loving every moment behind the wheels. But before this, I would like to share my first experience on Dubai roads. After we completed all the formalities, it was time to get our new family member home...the car! We Indians believe a lot in auspicious occasions, so we decided on 6th August, Wednesday to get the baby home.But the crux of the situation was that only I had got my licence and my husband still awaited his. We had an option of getting the car delivered home but we decided against it. I gathered all my courage and decided to drive it home.
We were not very familiar with the roads, traffic conditions and the various gadgets in the car but wanted to let go of my fears. The moment I sat behind the wheels and started the ignition, I knew I could do it. All the practice of Belhasa driving school would come to test today. From the moment we left the automall till we reached home I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of the drive...I was on a different high! It was an achievement of sorts. My husband was quite supportive and and acted as a perfect navigator as he is more familiar with the roads here. He did lose his cool a couple of times specially during lane changes...but I feel the first drive without an instructor wasn't all that bad after all....I was on cloud seven...and since that day when I first let go of my fears...I haven't looked back.... I love being on the roads and every time we step out of home I insist its me who will be behind the wheels....to gain all the confidence in the world and moreover to get familiar with roads....if we decide there's nothing we can't do....

Results awaited...and received

The three of us waited outside the RTA Officer's room holding our breath. It reminded me of school/college days when you waited outside the Principal's room...knowing not what to expect and why you were summoned. I kept on consoling myself...it's going to be ok, this was just the first attempt and I will definitely make it in the second. The trend there was, generally they called out names of students who failed first and lastly of the successful candidate. I just hoped and prayed it wasn't me she called first. At least the probability of success would be higher. But everything least I expected was happening that day. The three of us waited and consoling each other...its fine, but fearing the feeling of failure.
We were literally standing with our ears on the door. And then my name was called out. O God! so I hadn't made it.....disappointed I knocked and walked in. I greeted her. She asked me to give my Learner licence. I fumbled through my bag and nervously handed it over to her. She asked me if it was my first attempt. So this was to tell me in other words that ..."It's only your first attempt!"I was preparing myself for the worst. So I have to go through the grind again. I waited for my result already in a state of disappointment. She signed and put the stamp on my result and handed it over to me..."PASSED"!!!!. I couldn't believe my eyes and ears. Did I just hear it right??? I almost had tears of happiness...we Indians are real emotional fools....cry when we are sad or even extremely happy...I thanked her...once ,twice and I think once again....and ran out...yipeeeee I had done it....Climbed the Mount Everest???? someone would think....but for me..it was almost close to that....I had promised myself my licence before the end of July....and God helped me to get there. The next two fellow examinees also got their result...they were successful too....so we had an examiner whose mood was great on that particular day and luck was on our side too.
I walked to the counter and with my best smile ever handed over the result to them. The lady at the counter congratulated me and asked me to come the next day to collect my licence....I was already flying on seventh heaven....I didn't have wings yet....what would happen after I had my licence in hand I wondered.I immediately called up my near and dear ones and informed them of my feat. I was really happy...and wanted to share my happiness with the entire world...but limited it to my closest circle. I called up Krishna, my instructor and told her...she was extremely happy and told me that she knew I was capable. I thanked Lulith who was an integral part of this entire process.
The next day I collected my Licence from the RTA center....room no 3...from where my dreams had taken shape...I had wished to be in the room at the earliest...and I had made it!!!This was my journey towards my road to success. I feel if we are determined and put our heart and soul into the task we will always succeed. Perseverance and hard work are key to success....By the way....this wasn't the end...this was just the beginning...a new beginning in Dubai....more to share....

Final RTA road test...road to success

The two batches who went before us returned from their final road test and waited outside with bated breath for their results. After a wait that seemed like forever they were called in one by one. When one enters the examiner's room, it definitely is with high hopes but when they come out you can make out with their expressions what the result would have been. So one by one they exited....and walked past expressionless...no prize for guessing the result. Only the last girl came out chirpy and happy....so the success ratio was 1:6 as of that morning. That was around 16%...so we didn't stand much chance. That made us more nervous.
After a while the RTA inspector came out with an ipad and called out 3 of our names....finally!Now I have to share a secret here. I had issues with reversing the car, our practice cars were parked on the right.  So we had practiced only reversing from the right. But the catch here was the RTA test car was parked on the left and it was crucial part of the test to reverse from the left. Immediate fail if you reverse it wrong.  I had never done it so wanted to avoid being the first to drive. I walked out and opened the back door to sit in. The instructor made my worst fears come true...she called out...Nisha you are the first...God...noooo. I was dreading that. But I had no choice did I? I placed my purse back and sat in the driver's seat. Safety belt check, seat adjustment check, mirrors check, passenger set belts check. I inserted the key and put on the ignition. Gave the indicator and reversed the car. Thanking my instructor for giving me a small hint as to when to turn the steering completely...on seeing the yellow broken lines in the side mirror....I just remembered that at the right time. I heard my examiner mumble"yes".I knew I had hit the bull's eye with that.  Beginning was a fairy tale. My confidence was high from there on. I did everything right after that I guess, maintaining safe distance,  giving correct indicators, waiting on the roundabouts, mirror and shoulder checks, constant movement of the head, speed controls specially at the turns, maintaining speed limits, you name it and I knew I had done everything right. ..atleast as per my judgement. Then I was asked to take the car to the highway, the most crucial part of the route. I was asked to change the lane thrice at a go...I did that, each time following the centre mirror, side mirror, shoulder check and back to centre mirror . I had remembered to maintain the required speed, if you lower the speed...you are failed immediately. Then was asked to take an immediate right. I had to be very cautious as there was merging traffic from the right. But I gave the indicator and saw an approaching truck from the right. As per my judgement I knew I could turn without  any risk. When I was doing so the examiner said "careful". My heart skipped a beat. Hope that didn't spoil my chance of being successful today. After a while I was asked to park the car on the right side of the road. The second girl was asked to take over. The third girl showed me a  Thumbs  up...meaning I had driven well. But who are we to judge.  It was the examiner whose verdict mattered.
After the three of us finished we were asked to wait outside in the waiting area for our results....We had gone through the grind....now all that mattered was the verdict of the examiner....hope and pray is all that we could do and leave the rest to fate....ahh yes...also to the examiner's mood!!!

Waiting for RTA Road Test

After completing the 8 cumpolsary refresher classes with my instructor I was asked to submit my papers for the final RTA road test.... .The most dreaded. I feel no one has ever been so serious and nervous about even their tests at school or college as this test. Here its not about failing the test ....but the aura of the RTA officers. They come across worse than  principals in residential school. They are strict and stern. I had heard so many experiences during all those hours waiting in the ladies waiting room in the center.
Girls would share the reasons for their failures and reactions of the RTA inspectors while driving. By the way at Belhasa it was women inspectors for lady students and vice versa.  They said how the examiner would give directions and if you goofed up they would shout and hold the steering....A clear indication that you had failed. So no one came for the test with the hope of passing in the first attempt. The first failure was considered as a learning experience and a corrective measure for the following test/tests. Why tests, as there were people who were attempting the RTA Test for between two to eight times (OMG!!!) So it was taken for granted that if it was the first attempt for you , they were not kind and considerate enough to pass you. More over through discussions we also came to know that a lot depended on the mood of the examiner on the day and most importantly. ...your luck. So all that left for you to do is pray to all your gods above.It's more to do with the humiliation of failure than anything else. That adds to the pressure and you end up making silly mistakes which cost you what could be your success on that day. My instructor had wished me luck and said she had high expectations from me.  I thought not after the number of times she told me "if you do this you will fail". But I wouldn't give up I decided. Atleast I will try my best.
So we waited out there, palpitations in the heart. ...The wait seemed endless and forever. Just wanted to get it over with....whatever be the result. My time was 9.40 AM and the clock soon ticked past it...with no sign of us being called. The RTA examiners were out with another set of students. And to add to our miseries..It was Ramadan time...so that could make them more moody...All of us sat there and wished each other good luck (wishing ourselves too as it was much needed).The lucky ones on that day who passed would have wings....and the unlucky ones....sobbing there way to the cashiers....Make payment for yet another RTA road test....don't know what was in store for me that day....just wait and watch....

Internal Assessment Test

Once the parking test is successfully completed,  regular classes are conducted till the instructor feels you are ready for the internal assessment. This is again done by the examiners. so once Krishna was sure and convinced that I was confident enough to go for it...she asked me to submit my papers for the same for a day convenient to me. I didn't want to delay it hence immediately took the date. I was obsessed with completing my driving lessons soon and getting the licence in my hand. Taureans are headstrong individuals...Once a decision is made they go all out to achieve their desires. My obsession was my licence. My instructor gave me few more inputs and things I needed to be careful about...maintaining speed limits, shoulder and mirror check while lane change, indicators and u-turns. She felt I was too much in a hurry always so needed to have control on my speed. Suggestion taken and ready for the test.
On the date of the test...again another wait in the ladies waiting room. While you wait you see the same anxiety you go through, on each one's face present there. Each one's concern is the same....will I make it in one go as each failure was a dig in the pockets. You had to shell out a few hundreds of hard earned dirhams and that would unsettle your budget. After all each of us are here with the hope of saving and  having a bank balance....
After a wait of few minutes, the examiner called out names of three of us who would go for the assessment with her, a philipina,  a Pakistani and me. The philipina was asked to start the test.She did so and throughout the next 10 minutes of her assessment, the instructor kept on pointing her mistakes to her...that put me on my guard. Then she was asked to park the car on the side of the road and I was asked to take over. I belted myself and started the car with full confidence. I followed her instructions and recalled all inputs of Krishna. I ensured I didn't make the mistakes I did with  krishna during regular classes. After my 10 minutes were over the examiner asked me to park the car on the side of the road and commented "you drive well Nisha, don't play with the steering too much". I am used to doing that in INDIA....The roads and traffic there compel you to....but I was HAPPY!! A positive comment from the examiner meant that I had passed this hurdle too. After the third girl drove the car for her test she was asked to take the car back to the yard. We were given our results then..If you pass the assessment you only get to do 8 compulsory classes to improve upon any suggestions given by the examiner. If you don't pass you get 12 to 16 classes more. I was happy I was close to the grand finale...The much dreaded RTA road test....another success added to my kitty....assessment test CLEARED....
...

Parking Test

After many sleepless hours on many days,finally arrived the day for the parking test. Sometimes entering a situation without any prior knowledge and experience can be exciting too. You don't know what to expect. Once at the centre for our test, all students appearing for it were asked to wait in the waiting room. After a while our internal examiner asked four of us to proceed to the yard and wait for them.
 The two examiners came there with two of the Belhasa cars. We were all very nervous and didn't know what to expect. Hadn't found anyone who could brief us. We waited for directions from the examiners. All of us didn't want to risk being the first to go ahead on being called. It's always better to see another person doing it and then go ahead. So on being called all four of us looked at each other to see who was ready to make the big sacrifice (lol). I gathered all my courage and took the initiative to be the first. The examiner asked me to be seated on the driver's seat. She asked me to drive and park the car in the angle parking. I was nervous but recalled all the inputs from my instructor.  The exact angle to take the right turn was the most crucial, which with God's grace I managed well at the right time. So that was done...One down. I was asked to reverse the car to its original position. Once I was through the other three were also asked to do the same.
Next I was asked to proceed to the other car where the examiner was waiting. She asked me to do the garage parking. This was a right angled parking into an assigned slot. Again turning the car at the right moment was crucial.  And generally one needed to adjust the car a couple of times to do the perfect parking. The God's above may have been showering their blessings on me on that particular day. I managed to do a purrfect parking that day as the examiner commented. ."very good nisha!!!". my heart was singing a song...I managed to impress that examiner with at least this. The next was the worst..parallel parking. I knew I would goof up there. The first examiner had finished with the other three students and waited for us to do the parallel parking. Again I was the first here. Dreading the moment. My hands were wet with sweat.The examiner sensed my nervousness. She asked me to relax. She asked me to start and I did. But all the inputs from Krishna deserted me just then. I forgot to put the indicator on...The examiner asked me to. How I cursed myself for forgetting the simplest thing. Anyways after that everything just went wrong. My nervousness at its peak now. I knew if I failed today would be because of this. Anyways the examiner helped me to pull this through. I finished and thanked God it was over. Next was the hill parking. I went to the car waiting on the hill, a mount built inside the yard. I sat on the driver's seat and it was over be for it started. The examiner handed me the result..stamped  "PASSED". I couldn't believe my eyes...Examiner said you can leave now....I literally flew from there...happy and on cloud 9!!!! One more hurdle crossed....in first attempt.

Parking Phobia

It was getting easier to manoeuvre the car on Dubai roads around Belhasa Driving centre, I was getting used to the roads and the turns and there was a boost in my confidence.I could hear Krishna reacting lesser as the mistakes I made were fewer. I was happy. In spite of all this "If you do this you will fail" kept dropping in regularly making my confidence level go for a toss. But that was fine, just made me more cautious. I still tried hard to please her. I don't think I succeeded. But that was ok. Once I was a bit confident on the road, Krishna divided each class in 2 sections. One hour on the roads and one hour parking practice inside the yard. As mentioned earlier there are 4 parking one needs to learn about.  Parallel parking (:( still gives me nightmares,  angle parking (not so bad), garage parking (used in most residential parking slots) and hill parking.
I wonder why the instructors want to start with the most difficult, parallel parking in my case. It is so complicated that one gets confused with the number of times one needs to look in various glasses and mirrors, on each side of your seat, manoeuvre the turns correctly with correct indicators that at the end of it one starts looking like a zombie. And on top of this, one is not expected to make any mistakes. I mean even an expert will fail to perfectly park a car in parallel in one go. But you work towards perfection , you don't succeed is another story. After Krishna was convinced that I was ready for the parking test I was asked to pay for the same and take the date. I was nervous like hell. Wasn't sure of I could pull this one through.
I went to the extent of writing down the steps of each parking and vizualize it and practice it in my mind. I wonder if everyone goes through this. The fear of failure was very demotivating. I wrote down steps of exactly when I needed to look in which mirror/glass, when and which indicator to give, exactly how much and when to turn and so on. I would lie in bed and speak out those steps in my mind....firm determination...I have to pass this test....If I would be asked to go for a retest...It would be for parallel parking. Rest I knew I would manage. Krishna had trained me well with accurate instructions. I am thankful to her yet again....now I just had to see what happened on the day of the test...had to go through another trial...

Practice makes you perfect

Like I mentioned in my last post...With Krishna's continuous taunts and repeated words that haunted me "if you do this RTA will fail you" I was losing my self confidence.  Nothing I did seemed to please her. In being extra cautious I repeated my mistakes. But hats off to her. She wouldn't lose her patience. The lane change, giving way, stopping at STOP sign, roundabouts, giving the correct indicators,  mirror checks, shoulder check...there's nothing she missed out on...With finer details..Today I value all her inputs...makes me a better and safer driver on the road. She ensured I practiced what I lacked in. She would make very little conversation throughout my 2 hours of class. I assumed perhaps she didn't like me. There are very few people I know who don't,  so I was a bit surprised. She maintained her distance so did I. The only barrier we broke was from mam to krishna....and that was quick. I regard her as a teacher and shared some of the driving secrets, she shared with me, with my husband...I guess what you learn from teachers like her...you can never unlearn.
She knew my drawbacks in driving and she helped me to practice the same over and over again till it satisfied her. Now one thing that I dread till date is PARKING...It gives me nightmares...I may take the car around the world...but when it comes to parking a car...I see stars in daylight. so I wonder if the funda of "practice makes you perfect" will work here....let's wait and watch...Parking phobia....The next post.....

Instructor switch

After 2 days of driving sessions with my first instructor Sitara, a very soft spoken and docile person, I had to stop my driving classes due to some commitments in my daughters' schools. Now another issue was if you stop your classes without an intimation, you lose the amount for the classes. Atleast you need to inform them 2 days in advance to save this loss and also you will have to wait for them to assign a new instructor to you if the previous one has already been assigned a new student. ooofffff....complicated. But it's unavoidable as sometimes you may just have something important come up....like in my case.
Well this post is dedicated to my new instructor Krishna who was instrumental in my road to success. Success?? well apart from getting the licence in one attempt, she inspired me and guided me sufficiently to gain the confidence to do so. So I said success.Krishna was a total contrast from Sitara. Krishna, a stern Sri Lankan, with a crisp voice and a straight face, a person who rarely smiled. That made me nervous each time I sat down beside her for the class.  She motivated me not with any kind of appreciation but a lot of negative reinforcement. Sometimes that works better as you get the urgency to prove the other person wrong that....yes I can do it when they may think and prove to you otherwise. I feel apart from the dedication and sincerity with which she guided me through the 20 sessions it was also the discipline that she maintained throughout. that actually helped. She was a very punctual lady, unlike many at the center.  The stories some other students shared made me thank my stars for making Krishna my new instructor. The switch I guess worked for me. I was always like a little child trying to please her with my best performance. ..but not once she uttered the golden words "good". I would be very disappointed then, but now when I sit back and think, I feel that attitude of hers motivated me to perform better.I always dreaded going for my classes with Krishna as her harsh words would haunt me and make me tense. Driving would become more difficult.  But I would like to give her full credit for bringing out the best in me,and instilling the confidence in me. I'll share the rest in my next post.

Behind the wheels....finally

Once through with the assessment test I was attached to Sitara from Pakistan as my instructor. On the scheduled day and time I was at the driving centre. She lead me to the car and noted all the details on the attendance card. Each session is for 2 hours comprising of 4 classes of half an hour each. So I would have to attend classes only for 5 days to entitle me to give my RTA road test.....my my!!! soon my dream will come true....but as they say never count your eggs before they hatch...or better still....there's always a slip between the cup and the lip....She asked me to take out my RTA books...oops....I hadn't carried them...and on the first day itself I had to hear so much from my instructor for being irresponsible. ..I kept apologising. ..and she understood I genuinely meant it...by the way...It is mandatory to carry your learner permit and RTA books daily for the classes.They use them to guide you through and one has to keep referring to them no matter how much experience you have of driving...Its just never enough.
So she asked me to put on the ignition and showed me the features on the dashboard and basic rules to follow when you are in the driver's seat. All set and she asked me to drive the car around in the yard. Surprisingly I managed better than I thought. After an hour of driving she told me we would practice "parking" the car. Now that is what I dread as a driver. The amount I enjoy driving the car that much I dread parking. I never get it right. That was one of the main reasons I sold off my Zen in Mumbai and never thought of driving again. But that was a compulsory aspect of driving classes. With my heart beats gaining momentum and nervous demeanour I followed her instructions.  I was so shaken that no matter how simply she put it, I got it wrong each time....parallel parking....something which I know I will never do successfully and flawlessly....
The instructions were falling on deaf ears as what she said confused me thoroughly.  The constant shift from rear view mirror to centre mirror to side mirror had me thouroghly confused and exhausted... I told her that it's impossible for me to get through this test...and I wouldn't mind taking extra classes to sharpen the skills of four parking...parallel, angle, garage and hill...had never heard them before....That's not how it is in our India I thought....15 odd years of driving. ..down the drain...Two hours of continuous driving left me tired and hassled and I can't forget the pain in the arms I had for the next few days....Training for the day was over...Thank god!

Preliminary Assessment test

Once I was given the date for my preliminary assessment test, I was left clueless as to what that actually meant. Couldn't leave it to fate. Wondered yet again if I had done the right thing by opting for 20 driving classes, I even went back and asked if I could change them to 40 classes, at least I wouldn't have to go through nightmares of failing the test miserably.I surfed through Google, mister know it all but for once ever it failed to lead me to the right track. So I was left with no option but to pray to all the God's in my religion I could and seek their blessings. My hubby kept reassuring me that it's no big deal. Even IF I failed, in the worst scenario I would be asked to do 40 classes which I anyways wanted.
So I reached the center on the day of the test and submitted my learner licence. I was asked to wait as an internal assessment officer would call for me. My hands were cold with sweat and heart pounding with rapid palpitations. It was a harrowing time for me. Did everyone go through the same??? I wondered and wondered....Finally after a wait for 40 mins which seemed like eternity, the officer walked out and called for me. By the way, I did get a sneak peek into a friends car just to get the feel of the interiors so I wouldn't be looking for the right gadgets inside. So once she asked me to seat myself in the drivers seat, I performed the basic activities right....safety seat belt, seat adjustment and mirror adjustments. The instructor was very cooperative and helped me in the same, guiding at every step. She came across very positively and I took this opportunity to tell her that it was the first time for me in a left hand driven car and that I hadn't driven in the last one year. This hopefully would leave her with very little to judge. She asked me not to worry and that I would be only tested on my knowledge and that would help them to schedule my training from the desired stage. There are 5 training stages before once appears for the RTA road test. I fumbed with the ignition and with reversing the car and with acceleration and with everything possible. I was quite embarrassed but I am sure they have seen cases like mine before as the officer was quite relaxed at my ignorance and kept making notes. She took me for a couple of rounds of the yard and asked me to park. I heaved a sigh of relief!!! Phew!! Thank god it was over...She asked me to wait. I did...With bated breath. Then she called for me and told me that I had cleared Stage 1 and my training would start from Stage 2.....omg....I made it!!! Couldn't believe my luck....so it wasn't as bad as it seemed.....I had successfully passed my preliminary assessment test. ...so what if not with flying colours. ....

Towards the driver's seat....

So on successfully passing the online theory test, which reiterates the fact that now you are well versed with the rules of driving on Dubai roads, I was guided to the ladies coordinator Lulith for the next course of action. I have to say a few words about Lulith as she plays a special role in my journey towards getting my driving licence. She is a philipina, like the others in her community, a very pleasant and soft spoken girl, very patient and very efficient in her work. She was very forthcoming and always ready to help, whether you go to personally meet her or contact her over the phone. She was in charge of all female students and their activities till they finally received their licences. I went to her with my theory result and was asked when I would like to start my classes. Tuesday and Saturdays were the days that suited me best. I was looking forward to finally being on the drivers seat. Lulith asked me if I was okay with a Pakistani instructor and I was surprised at that question. Could I have an objection? I smiled and said...ofcourse, perfectly fine.So I was given the coordinates of my instructor Sitara. But before that I had to undergo a preliminary assessment test...to test my basic skills of driving.Tht sure got me nervous. And this test was only for students who were taking 20 driving classes. They were expected to know the basics and I had never driven a left hand driven car ever before. I didn't even know the various controls in the car. I was regretting my decision to proudly hand over the Indian driving licence and opting for 20 classes. It would have been better to hone my skills and practice as much as I could before I independently drive our car. But it was too late now. The harm was done and the preliminary test would  confirm my driving abilities or I must say disabilities....I knew I would fumble and fail miserably....didn't know what was in store....praying for some miracle to happen...do they???

RTA online theory test

The mention of an exam can give anyone jitters, be it my daughter studying in Std 7 or me, about to appear for a theory test. Once through with the theory lessons it is imperative to take the online test, only then can you start working towards your dream to someday drive a Ferrari on Dubai roads. Well our instructor mentioned during the lectures that one can download the RTA app on the smartphones (trust me we see everyone carrying one nowadays, that's the common  language people speak ). This app enables you to practice online theory test and prepares you for the big day. The first thing everyone did right there and then, compromising on the use of the much precious mobile data was, download the app. Half the battle won it seemed like. We were excited and could already sense victory. ...of passing the test.
The date for the test was given to us . Now would start the task of going through the RTA books, learning about the various symbols , rules and regulations, dos and don't and recap of all the information shared during the theory sessions. The more you read, the more there was to learn. Google came to my rescue at this crucial time. By going through various options I struck gold!!! Found a link which took me to model question papers for the RTA Test. I recalled the time when we looked for model test papers each time we were to appear in an exam, be it school or college.This was a similar experience. Everyday with diligence I practiced a couple of question papers. Luckily each time you would get a new set of questions.  So you got to learn so much more and learnt to time your test. I almost became a pro at it as after a few question papers there would be repetition of questions. So if you made a mistake ones the second time around you confidently answered it correctly. I became a teacher to my husband too. Telling him means and ways of answering correctly. Where did he have the time to go through those thick RTA books. So by the time test day drew closer...my confidence level was quite high.
Finally the day arrived when I had to appear for the same. As usual I reached early and went and submitted the documents. They guided me to a room with tiny cubicles somewhat like a cyber cafe. I was made to sit in one of the cubicles and the instructor logged into the computer, gave me basic directions. In spite of so much of practice...I had nervous vibes...anxiety...We were to answer 33 questions and it was compulsory to get at least 21 right. Trust me it took me not more than 10 mins to finish a half an hour work. This was all thanks to the practice on the app. I re read my answers, a few confusions but it's all right. No matter how much you know, it can never be enough. I finished and stepped out of the room. I was asked to wait for the result...palpitations. It's not a good feeling to fail at any point in your life. The instructor gave me a printed result....PASSED....With the details of questions I had answered wrong....who cared at that moment....I had cleared the ground.. ...what an achievement!!! So...I was one step closer....

Student once again

So once we all settled in the classroom, our instructor walked in...a small built man of Pakistani origin. He welcomed us and shared some Housekeeping tips. Now what are housekeeping tips...well basic rules to be followed during the session, discipline to be maintained with respect to paying attention to the lectures without any distractions from the smart phones and social media (lol). That happens to be the biggest attraction and distraction nowadays. The friends ought to be updated with the latest in your life after all. There would be 15 minutes break after each hour of theory session so no one should find an excuse to miss any part of the theory session, a very important part of the entire process. After each hour, the learner licence would be stamped by the instructor (attendance routine...they weren't so strict in our professional college :( ). The students had to be back in class within the stipulated time as the door would be locked and entry denied, so you wait out for an hour and attend the next session and return on another day to attend the session you missed as the learner permit wouldn't be stamped and one needed 8 stamps to appear for the theory test. ( This was too much we felt, we are responsible adults and not some college going kids...not fair! But did we have a choice???) So we all settled in and the main door was actually locked, we hadn't believed him when he said that. He started with basic introduction of self and a brief intro of the students. So far so good.
The session started and it grew on us, his way of imparting knowledge. The session was interactive and fun filled unlike what we had expected. Various situations were discussed, PPTs displayed and question answer sessions progressed. It wasn't bad at all. And the instructor had 15 years of experience behind him so he knew the nerve of each of us present there.He kept the session alive. A lot of knowledge was shared from the RTA books we were given while registering. We kept referring to them and actually learnt a lot during the theory sessions. I will recommend everyone to take interest in attending the theory sessions as you get to learn from the instructor's experience what you don't learn from the books. They will share with you exactly the reasons behind failing the RTA road test or questions one can expect in the theory test. There is no short cut to success and getting the licence in first attempt was due to my sincerity in taking these sessions seriously. A little hard work and dedication pays off. Each hour session was followed by a much needed washroom and coffee break. It was a day full of a lot of learning and sharing of experiences, made a few friends too.
A similar four hour session was attended on the following Saturday and learner permit stamped to entitle me to appear for the theory test....that was another stress I must say...taking a breather now to prepare myself for the very compulsory online theory test, the next step in getting you closer to your mission licence.... 

Classroom session

Celebrated independence day....15th August by being off the blog and celebrating My Independence On The Road....remember we spoke about it earlier....yess...I spent the day driving on Dubai roads...finally!!! Thanks to my licence in my hand....how I got there is a long story. So let's go back to where we were....through with registrations...curiosity, anxiety and apprehensions....what next???
Next was attending the 8 cumpolsary theory sessions...in a classroom. Lectures again???? Oh...would be task seeing us through those four grueling hours, glued to our chairs and gaping at the lecturer sleepy eyed! well but I was a bit excited too...A new beginning of sorts...something I wanted to achieve. And what better day that 13th May, my birthday. Atleast I wouldn't forget this day and date in a long time to come.
Packed off the kids to school, Hubby off to work I reached the center at 8 AM. Half an hour before time. I like it like that, being where I am supposed to be well before time so I get time to settle in. I hate doing things in a disorganised manner. I am quite a disciplined person. So once at the center, CSR at the reception informed us that we were required to be in the room no 13(my lucky number yet again :) ) at 8.30.I had enough time to pick up a cup of coffee. I took one from the canteen...yes BDC has various facilities for their customers and staff .Canteen, prayer rooms, kids day care center where you may leave your kids for a couple of hours, rare but useful...vending machines ..to name a few. Well equipped I must say.  So I picked up my coffee and walked upto room no. 13 on the first floor. I entered the room and saw a huge hall with a few people of mixed nationalities already seated. Separate sections for ladies and guys. A very common practice in the middle east. I took my seat and made myself comfortable . I was thankful for the coffee, it would definitely help me keep awake in the boring lecture classes...well the real experience I shall share tomorrow. So what awaited us in our theory sessions is something interesting and I look forward to sharing with you soon....

Excitement and Anxiety

Once our doubts were clarified, the CSR took out relevant forms to fill up, first step towards the registration. He had a few clarifications to make about the number of classes we would each take in the on road driving. We had come fully prepared with that. We had been told that if you hold a valid Indian Licence more than five years old then you are required to do only 20 classes with your instructor. Otherwise it was a tedious task of attending 40 classes , the number may go up to hone particular skills your instructor may recommend. I very very proudly showed off my licence and was happy that apart from saving time attending classes I am also going to save some very precious Dirhams.The repercussions of this I would face later. My happiness I didn't realize was shortlived (sigh!!) My husband was at a disadvantage here. Though he was more experienced in driving, almost 20 years of experience, both right hand & left hand drive ( we were posted in Yemen for 5 long years and he drove the left hand corolla like a jet) he had misplaced his licence (along with other very important documents). He has been a little (little????) careless with his belongings. Well Taj spoiled him as there were people to take care and locate his stuff when he misplaced them.But this loss was going to dig into his pocket afterall!!! He had a copy of the licence so he presented it to them but was informed that they only honor the original copy. He tried his charm with the RTA CSRs but well....it didn't work and he was asked to take 40 classes. Very disappointed indeed but you have to make small sacrifices to gain something....he would have to sacrifice his time, travel woes and precious working hours to achieve this mission....
The forms were filled and payments were made. We had successfully registered for our driving classes. Now would start our journey towards one of the most difficult destinations....Room No 3 where you finally pick up your licence from the RTA!!!Lucky are those who reach there after a very tiresome journey... I was envying them...my journey had just begun...miles to go before I achieve,miles to go...( have I heard that before??? A Robert Frost Poem... well I am no genius...just checked the poets name on GOOGLE!!!)
We had mentioned our options on the form to attend compulsory 8 theory sessions before you sit on the driver's seat.My husband decided to sacrifice his Friday (a weekly off in UAE) to finish 8 long grueling hours, listening to rules & regulations of driving on Dubai roads. I opted for a better option....4 hours each on Tuesday and Saturday....so next would be Classroom sessions....curious and anxious....

Registration for driving licence

Once inside the Belhasa Driving Center, we were greeted by their very warm and smiling customer service reps. All that they were supposed to do was to listen to your query patiently and punch out a token, relevant to the respective department. And yes, they took the initiative to give you directions to the department without you having to ask for it. Guess they notice the confusion on your already anxious face. So you reciprocate the gesture with a very warm smile and a grateful thank you....and their day is made. I must tell you, we left the center with a very positive feel. From the entry to the exit, we came across a very enthusiastic set of employees at Belhasa, patient and proactive. So far, so good. We spoke to the rep and told them that we were there to register for the driving classes. We were welcomed with a warm smile and were personally escorted to the registration counter, very conveniently located, easy access to anyone walking in.
 The CSR took the pains to give the reference to another couple of reps there, an African male and a Lebanese female CSR. The Afro was a very endearing character....his white teeth gleaming across his otherwise dark complexion.He was happy to hear that he was dealing with a husband wife duo, both wanting to register for the classes. He was happier (probably his targets were going to be met for the day) as he would have to explain the whole process just once for two registrations. He briefed us on the entire process, clarifying all the doubts we popped up in the midst of our conversation "Generally how long does it take to get a licence" "what were the timings" "what if I can't attend a theory session or a driving class" silly questions at our age I guess. But he, though much younger in age than us, smiled at each question and answered patiently, till we were convinced and satisfied. We were happy to be dealing with a CSR like him and not a sullen faced character who would make us more nervous than we already were. How it is no, to be on the other side of the table, where you are not leading but being guided. You may be working at a corporate position or running a business with all the intelligence in its place, but this was where you are a student once again. Learning from the basics. So here would begin our journey to the registration process for our driving classes in Belhasa.Way to go....

Mission Licence: First step

Once we had our necessary documents ready and kids settled in school, we started our next endeavor: Mission Licence. We referred to our friends in Dubai who have been here for long and enjoying their freedom on the road....because they possess a valid driving licence. Each one had a story to tell. And that sure got us nervous and it looked like we had set ourselves a target, difficult to achieve. General responses:"It took me 4 trials to get my licence." " I was failed because of a silly mistake." " The RTA instructor confused me."  For us now would begin an uphill task.Millions of questions cropping up. I guess more than anything it was the fear of facing failure..." I have been driving for 20 odd years, how can they judge me in 10 mins???" "What if I fail, will be so embarrassed..."The dilemma was unending.

My husband had been in Dubai since January but was just too occupied to even go and register. So one fine day, very determined and after finalizing on the driving school we set out to register and complete formalities. Before I forget, which driving school....highly recommended Belhasa Driving Centre, reasons?? Well let me name a few. Very well reputed, convenient as close to home, have their own school and yard where you practice in safe environment and last but not the least Salman Khan patronizes it :). Well that was just by the way, a reason to convince self not that I am a great Bollywood fan. So we packed the kids off to school, collected the relevant documents and took a cab to the driving centre. Once we reached there, the sight of the centre overwhelmed us. We had a few preconceived notions, a mini centre like one of the many back home in India. What welcomed us was a huge centre with hundrends of people from various walks of life buzzing in and out.A very busy centre indeed. Taking a deep breath, we walked into the centre. We could see people of all nationalities hurrying scurrying trying to save as much time as possible, a few waiting for their turn at various counters. A lot of unexpected action and chitter chatter.  So here we are, the first step towards Mission Licence and we walk to their customer service desk...right opposite the entrance....

Admission fever

Once we settled into our home, the next on the agenda was to make rounds of the respective schools to get the admissions done for the girls. New job for my husband, no vehicle....only added to our woes. We were new in Dubai and the best support we got was from the cabbies, I guess they would sense we are new and are not sure where we want to go. So immediately they would say....do you know the place? We don't, we tried to look confident each time we were asked the question. Cabbies have got smarter here since the last time we were here. They would sense our dilemma and take us on routes longer than the usual. That made us more determined that we have to get our licence at the earliest. At least you don't get fooled and fleeced, as we did many many times. We tried our level best to remember landmarks so we don't forget the routes to the schools but that didn't help in any ways. As one wrong turn and your so called landmark is out of sight. The GPS on the phones also didn't help much due to network issues. The waits at the schools after we called in for a taxi would get the kids restless...sometimes we waited endlessly at schools, sometimes at hospital...our only topic of discussion...wish we had a car....but for that MISSION LICENCE. So as soon as we had the necessary documents and Emirates ID...we started our mission to get the licence.....

Getting settled in Dubai

The first thing that gives you jitters when you move to Dubai is commuting from one place to the other, though Dubai is well connected by its local transport system like metro, buses and taxis. But unless you are sure of the routes, numbers and have plenty of time in hand....local transport can be a disadvantage. When we moved here in March 2014, on the top priority after settling kids in school was registering for the driving classes. The deadline I set for myself was July end, I would like to have a licence in hand. So the roller coaster ride began...
First was the to and fro trips to schools of my two daughters, both in 2 different directions. The older one had Gems Modern Academy, Naad Al Sheba on her mind and the younger needed special education so no choice but Al Noor at Al Barsha. Each time we stepped out to catch a taxi or take the metro, we wished we owned a car. It would make life so much easier as at times waiting for a taxi in Dubai heat can get to you. Or even tagging the kids along as you hop skip and jump changing metros could be a pain. But beggars can't be choosers. But I must say....the kids were very supportive and often enjoyed the joyride without cribbing. Each time the thought of taking a metro and changing at various routes gave me goosebumps and I was almost tempted to take a cab,knowing well how expensive they are, my kids motivated me to take a bus or the metro...kudos to them!!And I must say, if I learnt to swipe the metro card while boarding or leaving the bus and each time it blinked "checked in/out successfully" in green, I felt a strange sense of achievement!!! Yay!!! I did it...this was just the beginning. The real tests were yet to start....