DWC Dubai - some advice needed

Hello InterNations folks.

I have been given an opportunity to work in Dubai (set up a local branch) at DWC and I need some advice. What would you recommend in terms of nearest accommodation available and transportation links?
I am aware that DWC free zone area is quite far out from the Dubai city centre and is still pretty much in the middle of nowhere-> read...desert. I would be renting a car obviously for the start and I will see how it goes later on. Could you please share your driving experience in UAE? I have heard that it is disgracefully bad there and UAE has got the highest number of road fatalities in the world..It sounds quite scary though, I must admit....Thank you in advance and I look forward to hearing from you.