Defensive driving is the way forward! Yes, some people drive like maniacs but give it a few months, you will most likely become one of the maniacs. I'm talking from experience here - when I was in the UK, I kept to the speed limit but how many people here can say that they still do that, that they indicate each and every time, that they check their mirrors before braking or stopping! Small things but just as dangerous as the maniacs who cut you off, tailgate you, etc
I drive to Abu Dhabi almost every day and the only thing I can say is to expect the unexpected. Everyone drives as if they own the road so stay alert at all times. People will change lanes even when you are parallel to them, so you're gonna be the one that brakes to save you life and your car. I actually prefer driving in Dubai as opposed to AUH! Drivers are still civil in Dubai compared to the behaviour that you witness on the AUH highway!
Yes, it is scary to get tailgated at 160 - 200km/hr but do not panic and take your time to get out of their way. Even when someone is bullying you out of the fast lane, check their position before you move aside cause they might just be about to undertake you.
I had to take a driving test here because my license is different to my passport and they wouldn't swap it. Here are 2 things I got taught (Nr 2 is highly not recommended!!!)
- If a slow moving car is blocking your way, it is ok to flash. This will alert them to your presence and let them know to give you way (Err, I'd hazard a guess that you can see me in your mirror but oh well, apparently, that's the way to do it here) - I'm against this by the way!!
- If you are on a roundabout in the left lane and your exit is coming up, indicate and move!!! (This floored me) Maz: Wouldn't that cause an accident. It would be safer to change lanes as you approach your exit and make sure that you are in the right lane.
Instructor: No, you are on the roundabout. You have right of way!!!
Maz:
I'm not worried about those waiting to join the roundabout but rather the cars already on the roundabout, who I will have to cut off
Instructor: They can see you, they will brake to avoid you 

Oh, and I drive a 4x4 and no, it is not the safest thing on the road! A burst tyre is enough to wipe you out. Sure if someone hits you, there is a lot of more metal between you and them but does that really matter when you look at the ease with which 4x4s flip!
The best thing that my driving instructor (in the UK) taught me is, do not drive for yourself, drive for others and anticipate their next stupid move and then you'll be fine! This is doubly important here - if it looks like someone is about to do something stupid, then take steps to avoid them, even if common sense prevails and they choose not to do it. It's the only way to get to your destination safely.
Drive safe!