Highlights
- Find out who can rent a car in Dubai, from residents to tourists, and what qualifications you need.
- Explore the pros and cons of renting a car, including insurance coverage and potential costs.
- Follow tips for renting a car, including choosing the right rental platform, understanding insurance, considering your budget, and preparing the necessary documents.
- Assess rental cars with a test drive and learn about restrictions on driving rental cars outside the UAE.
Renting a Car
Thinking of renting a car in Dubai? From skipping the hassle of public transport to having more freedom to get around, and the ease of traveling long-distance, renting a car has plenty of perks. But, before you zoom over to the nearest car-leasing venue, there are a few things to consider. By weighing up your options, you can save yourself a lot of time, stress, and money in the long-run. So, to help you make the right choice, follow our guide before renting a car.
Who can rent a car in Dubai?
All Dubai residents over the age of 21, with a valid Dubai driver’s license, can rent a car in Dubai. For some supercar rental companies, you need to be over 25 years old. Expat residents with a driving license from GCC countries, as well as countries like the UK, South Africa, France, Belgium, Germany, and more, can use a license issued in their home country to rent a car and drive in Dubai. You can find out more information, or if this applies to you, here. While conditions may differ between rental companies, tourists will need an international driving license to rent a car.
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Pros of Renting a Car:
- Rental cars are insured and paid for by car-leasing companies.
- You get access to support services you would usually have to pay for (e.g. roadside assistance).
- You can rent a car as long as your budget allows it, as opposed to paying off a car over the long term.
- You have the flexibility to travel long distances when you need to.
- It could be more affordable than buying a car if you don’t drive often.
Cons of Renting a Car:
- Renting a car with a limited insurance policy could mean you may be liable for any excess damages.
- There may be mileage restrictions with certain rentals.
- It is more expensive than taking public transport and could be more expensive than buying a car if you plan to rent over a long period.
- You have to adhere to strict terms and conditions when renting a car.
Tips for Renting a Car:
- Choose the right rental platform or company based on your rental duration, budget, and reputation.
- Understand rental car insurance coverage and review the policy carefully.
- Consider your budget, including hidden costs like toll charges, traffic fines, excess accident or damage charges, administration fees, petrol costs, value-added tax (VAT), and more.
- Ensure your documents are in order, including passport copy, residential visa, a valid UAE driving license or international driving license, Emirates ID copy, and proof of income for residents.
- Assess any rental cars you’re considering with a test drive, checking the interior, exterior, and fuel efficiency.
Rental platforms for long-term rentals
Rental platforms for short-term rentals
Good to Know:
- In most cases, you cannot drive a rental car outside the UAE’s borders. If you are eligible, you may need to apply to use it outside the UAE via the RTA.
- Car-leasing companies should be informed if another driver will be using the rental car. In this case, you’ll need to submit the other driver’s license and their other documents, too.
- If the insurance of a rental car isn’t sufficient, you can ask for additional coverage, which you may need to pay for.
- In the case of loss or damage, you may not get your full deposit back.
- Budgeting is essential, but the cheapest option is not always the best option. Read plenty of reviews before choosing a rental company with rates that are too good to be true.
Now that you know the ins and outs of renting a car in Dubai, you can look forward to having more freedom to get around. Happy driving.
