Since Rentico’s launch in 2023, we’ve focused on helping tourists experience the thrill of visiting Dubai by making driving in the UAE a breeze. Travelers often face frustrations with rental companies, like hidden fees or unclear rules. This guide outlines everything you need to know about renting a car in Dubai, helping you dodge common issues and explore Dubai as a tourist confidently.
Documents Required to Rent a Car
Before you drive in Dubai’s skyline, gather the documents required to rent. Missing paperwork can stall your plans. Here’s what you need to provide.
Valid Driving License: Need an International Driving Permit?
A license to rent a car is required. A valid UAE license in English or Arabic suffices for most. Drivers from GCC countries, the US, UK, Canada, or EU nations can use their home driver’s license without an international driving permit. Others, like those from Russia or India, need an international driving permit (IDP) to translate their license for UAE driving.
| Country Group | IDP Needed? |
| GCC, US, UK, Canada, EU | No, home license accepted |
| Russia, India, others | Yes, IDP advised |
Expert Advice from Rentico💯
Keep your license to rent and IDP handy. Dubai has strict traffic rules, and police may request both during stops.
To rent a Lamborghini, you must be at least 25 years old. This rule applies to all supercars. In the UAE, renting high-performance supercars requires comprehensive insurance coverage due to the significant risks and costs involved. These insurance standards, enforced under the country’s regulatory framework and overseen by the Roads & Transport Authority (RTA), ensure the safety and protection of both drivers and rental agencies. For details, see the official RTA car rental regulations document.
Read more about using your UAE driving license in the UAE
A valid passport and a visa stamp in the passport prove your legal status in the UAE. Car rental companies in Dubai verify these during booking. Store digital copies for quick access.
Minimum Age to Rent
The age to rent a car is 18 with one year of driving experience. Rental companies may require drivers to be over 25 for premium vehicles like a luxury car.
If you’re under 21 years of age, you can rent economy-class cars only. A refundable deposit of AED 2,000 is required in this case. Insurance terms: in case of an accident, you’ll pay the deductible (usually AED 1,000) plus 10% of the repair cost or vehicle value (in case of total loss).
Budgeting for Car Rental Costs
Hidden fees can disrupt your plans. Knowing rental costs upfront keeps your budget intact. Rentico offers a transparent car rental service with no hidden fees, whether you need to rent a car for a day, a week, or a month.
No Deposit Rentals: Keep Your Funds Free
Many car rental companies demand deposits (AED 1,000+), locking up funds better spent exploring around Dubai. Rentico offers Dubai rental without deposits, ideal for those planning to rent for short or long-term periods.
Car Insurance: Third-Party vs. Full Coverage
A Rental car in Dubai includes third-party car insurance, covering damage to others’ property. For full protection, opt for Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) to cover vehicle damage, included** across all rental durations at Rentico.
| Insurance Type | Covers | Advice |
| Third-Party | Others’ property | Insufficient for tourists |
| CDW | Rental car damage | Pick for peace of mind |
Salik Tolls and Rental Fees
Dubai’s Salik tolls (AED 4 are gated) are billed after your rental, whether daily, weekly, or monthly. Other costs include fuel if you don’t return the car with a full tank. Rentico lists all charges clearly.
Picking a Car in the UAE: Avoid Scams
With rental agencies, choosing wisely prevents issues when you rent a vehicle.
Spot Reliable Rental Car Companies in Dubai.
Read and check terms. Avoid rental companies with vague fees or poorly maintained cars.
Choose the Right Car for Your Needs
Solo travelers prefer sedans for streets. Families choose SUVs for space, consider sports cars. The Dubai car fleet suits any need, be it for a day or a month.
Pick the car that meets your needs: Convertible Mercedes, safe Nissan Patrol for a big company, sleek BMW M8 sedan, powerful BMW X6M or budget Nissan Rogue for any needs.
Book Your Rental Car Online
Select your perfect car, submit documents, and pay with credit card, cash, or Bitcoin. Enjoy free delivery and pickup anywhere in Dubai for rentals over AED 1000! Delivery hotel or airport saves time, ideal for long-term rentals, available for rent in Dubai.
For rentals under AED 1000, delivery and return are available to any location in Dubai for AED 105 each.
Prefer to pick up your car yourself? You can also collect and return your vehicle at our office: Anantara Downtown Business Tower, G02, Al A’amal Street, Business Bay, Dubai.
Driving in the UAE: 5 Must-Know Traffic Rules
Dubai offers stunning roads and strict traffic laws. Follow avoid fines:
- Speed Limits: 40–80 km/h cities, 100–140 km/h highways. Cameras monitor UAE driving.
- Roundabouts: Yield left-side traffic. Signal exits.
- Parking: Pay busy zones. See Dubai Parking Guide.
- No Alcohol: Zero tolerance for drinking and driving.
- Fines: Settle RTA website. Rentico assists.
Expert Advice from Rentico💯
Inspect car driving. Record video avoids disputes dents, especially monthly car rental in Dubai, depending on the rental company.
Visit RTA website traffic rules.
Tips for Renting a Car
- Read the rental agreement carefully, weekly monthly rentals.
- Consider weekly or monthly car rental savings, check with the rental company.
- Many car rental companies offer delivery, convenient long-term rentals.
- Choose the best car booking rental company in advance.
- International car rental companies may impose stricter rental conditions than local companies such as Rentico.
Frequently Asked Questions Need Car
Q: Does renting cars require an International Driving Permit?
A: Licenses GCC, US, UK, Canada, EU don’t need an international driving permit. Others carry one. Check our IDP guide for more information.
Q: What documents are required to rent?
A: Need a valid UAE home driver’s license, passport, a visa stamp in your passport.
Q: What’s required to rent a car?
A: car rental companies require valid UAE license IDP, drivers meet minimum age to rent, rental requirements. To get full information – visit our ultimate guide fo car rental in Dubai.
Q: Is car insurance included?
A: Third-party car insurance standard.
