Everything You Need To Know Before Renting a Car in Dubai 

Dubai is among the most preferred holiday destinations for tourists across the globe. Despite the availability of public transport in Dubai, renting a car is very convenient, and you can explore different locations on your own. To be more specific, if you are planning to go for scenic sightseeing along the coastline or to take a drive up the mountain, then hiring a car during your vacation will be beneficial.

This blog will explore everything you need to know about renting a car in Dubai.

How To Rent a Car In Dubai?

Renting a car in Dubai is not a daunting task. All you have to do is to follow some requirements and steps. By renting a car, you get to enjoy the convenience and freedom of moving from one location to another within Dubai. 

Here’s how you can do that.

• Research: Compare reputable rental agencies and check customer reviews.
• Check Offers: Look for competitive pricing and packages.
• Choose Car Type: Small cars for city trips; SUVs for longer journeys.
• Stay in Budget: Ensure the vehicle fits your needs and budget.
• Inspect The Car: Review mileage limits, insurance coverage, and fuel policies.
• Check Hidden Charges: Ask about any hidden charges or additional fees.
• Required documents: Passport, Visa, Driving License, and Credit Card for deposit.
• Proof of Damage: Document any existing damage to avoid disputes later.
• Insurance: Basic insurance is standard; consider purchasing additional coverage for peace of mind.

Requirements for Residents and Non-Residents for Renting a Car in Dubai

Renting a car in Dubai is straightforward, but there are some essential requirements you must meet before hitting the road. These criteria ensure both the rental company and driver comply with UAE regulations. Here’s what you need to know before renting a car in Dubai:

• Minimum Age: The minimum age for renting a car is 18 years, however, rental companies allow individuals aged 21 – 25 or older to rent high-end luxury cars or supercars.
• Valid Driving License: An International Driving Permit (IDP) is usually required for non-residents. However, residents from certain countries, including the USA, UK, GCC, and some EU states, may use their home country license. Furthermore, Dubai residents must have a UAE driving license and Emirates ID to access the service.  [1]
• Passport and Visa: Non-residents must provide a copy of their passport and visa (tourist or resident) when renting a car. [2]
• Credit Card: A credit card is mandatory for placing a deposit, even if you plan to pay for the rental in cash.

• Dubai  Traffic rules: The speed limit on City roads should be 60-80 km/h and on Highways it should be 100-120 km/h. There is no tolerance for drunk driving or distracted driving. [3]
• Heavy fines for violations: Speeding over the limit by 80 km/h can result in a fine of AED 3000, 23 black points, and car/license confiscation for 60 days. You can check the complete Dubai traffic guide here.

How to Choose The Right Car Rental Company?

Choosing the right car rental service provider in Dubai is essential to avoid problems. 

To ensure a smooth experience, consider the following factors:

1. Reputation

Well-established companies offer reliable service and well-maintained cars. Compare both big brands and local companies based on reviews.

2. Customer Reviews

Check online reviews for customer satisfaction, vehicle condition, and service quality. Google reviews and social media are great resources for feedback.

3. Price Comparison

Price isn’t always an indicator of quality. For instance, if you go for a low-priced rental company, their services and cars can be as good as any other reputed rental company in the market, but they might surprise you with some hidden charges. 

However, higher-priced rental companies often justify their rates with better-maintained vehicles and exceptional customer service along with security refunds.

4. Deposit Confiscation

Some companies may delay returning the deposit due to minor damages or additional cleaning fees. To avoid disputes, document the car’s condition with photos before renting.

5. Hidden Fees

Read the terms carefully to avoid surprises related to insurance, mileage limits, and fuel charges. Hidden fees can include unjustified deductions from your security deposit for unusual reasons like improper car usage or fake challans etc.

6. Poor Vehicle Condition

Low-cost rentals may come with poorly maintained cars. Inspect the vehicle carefully before driving off.

Wrap Up

Renting a car in Dubai is undoubtedly one of the most comfortable ways to travel around Dubai and take a trip to some of the nearby attractions. Regardless of whether you are considering a short vacation stay or extended vacation, it is helpful to have accurate information on car renting, its requirements, and the rental options that can be enjoyed.

If you’re curious about which luxury cars are most rented in Dubai, check out our blog on

Top Luxury Cars in Dubai Most Rented by Luxury Car Rental Companies.

FAQs

Is It Practical To Rent A Car In Dubai?

Yes, it is possible to rent a car in Dubai as this option provides flexibility and is convenient for driving around the city and the region. It is particularly beneficial for travelers who prefer not to rely on public transport or car services while on vacation or during business trips.

Can Foreigners Rent A Car In Dubai?

Yes, car rental in Dubai is open to foreigners. To obtain a driving license in the UAE, they require either a home country driving license or an IDP together with an original passport and visa.