Planning to Rent A Car In Dubai? Discover exactly how to rent a car in Dubai and compare competitive rent a car rates in Dubai with this definitive guide. We’ll walk you through requirements, cost-saving tips, insurance essentials, and step-by-step rental procedures to unlock Dubai’s wonders with maximum freedom and minimum hassle.
Why Rent a Car in Dubai?
We all experienced a new town experience. Everything is vague and requires time and trusting people to become easy, and for this aim, nothing is better than exploring a city alone. Renting a car in Dubai allows you to go wherever you want in a limited time without restriction or money loss. I gathered some compelling reasons for you to consider why googling “car rental Dubai near me” is much better than signing up for Careem (a taxi service in Dubai similar to Uber):
Convenience and Flexibility | Imagine cruising through Dubai at your own pace, free from the constraints of public transport schedules or waiting for a taxi. Renting a car allows you to explore whenever and wherever you want. |
Access to a Wide Range of Attractions | Easily reach must-see spots like beaches, deserts, and luxurious malls from the comfort of your rental car. |
Ease of Driving on Well-Maintained Roads | Enjoy Dubai’s modern roads that make navigating the city stress-free with Luxury Car Rental. |
Cost-Effectiveness Compared to Other Transport Options | If you’re staying for a few days, renting a car beats the cost of constant taxi rides. |
Variety of Car Options Available | Pick the perfect ride for you, whether a luxury car or an off-roader. |
Safety and Strict Traffic Laws | Drive with peace of mind, knowing that UAE’s stringent traffic regulations and high Traffic Fines contribute to a safe driving environment. |
Freedom to Create Personalized Itineraries | You can customize your trip to visit the places that interest you most without a schedule. |
Easy Rental Options | With plenty of agencies, finding your ideal car is a piece of cake. |
Airport Convenience | Many rental companies offer seamless airport pickup and drop-off, so you can dive straight into your adventure or return home without worrying about missing your flight. |
Okay! I gave you enough reason to reconsider your Dubai travel plan. Let’s dive into more critical parts: “How to rent a car in Dubai?” and “How much is it to rent a car in Dubai?”.
Who Can Rent a Car in Dubai?
To Rent A Car In Dubai, you’ll need:
- Valid driving license from your home country (minimum 1 year old)
- International Driving Permit (IDP) if the license isn’t in Arabic/English
- Passport and UAE visa copy
- Minimum age: 21 years (25+ for luxury/sports cars)
Pro Tip: GCC residents can use local licenses. Young drivers (21-24) pay 10-30% surcharges.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Rent a Car in Dubai
Understanding the rental process is key to a smooth experience, whether you’re here for business or pleasure. Follow this step-by-step guide to easily navigate how to rent a car in Dubai.

Step 1: Determine Your Needs
Assessing your requirements before diving into the rental process is essential. Consider factors such as the number of passengers, the type of trip (business or leisure), and the amount of luggage you’ll have. This will help you select the correct vehicle and ensure it meets your needs throughout your stay.
Step 2: Research Rental Companies
Explore your options by looking for reputable car rental Dubai near me services that offer a variety of cars. Read customer reviews and compare services to find a rental company that fits your preferences. Websites and apps can be beneficial in checking availability and prices.
Step 3: Check Rental Requirements
Each rental agency may have slightly different requirements. Generally, you need a valid Driving License in Dubai, an ID, and sometimes, an international driving permit. If you don’t have a credit card, don’t worry—there are options available on how to rent a car in Dubai without a credit card that allows other forms of payment, such as cash or PayPal options.
Step 4: Explore Pricing Options
Understanding how much is it to rent a car in Dubai will help you budget accordingly. Factors influencing the cost include the type of car, rental duration, and insurance options. Make sure to ask about any hidden fees to have a clear picture of your expenses.
Step 5: Book Your Vehicle
You can book once you’ve settled on a rental company and vehicle. Many agencies allow online reservations. Choose the dates that align with your plans and confirm your booking. Paying attention to the cancellation policy can also be helpful in case of unexpected changes.
Step 6: Choose between Insurance Options
Before signing any contracts, review the insurance options offered by the rental agency. If you don’t know it, car insurance is mandatory in the UAE, and you can’t drive without a policy. So, first, ask the rental company about car Insurance for rental cars in case of an accident. Some rental companies work with insurance companies and offer collision damage to reduce costs and fees if your vehicle is damaged during your rent time. If they don’t, or it is optional, you can buy an insurance policy. Knowing how much to hire a car in Dubai can often include insurance costs, so read the fine print to secure your footprints!
Step 7: Pick Up Your Car
On the day of the pickup, arrive on time with your documentation. Inspect the vehicle for any pre-existing damage and report it to the agency to avoid disputes later. Familiarize yourself with the car features to ensure a safe drive.
Step 8: Return the Vehicle
Return the car on time when your rental period ends to avoid extra charges. Fill the gas tank and allow the rental company to inspect the vehicle before finalizing the return.
Choosing the Right Rental Company
Compare Dubai rental operators
Type | Examples | Best For |
---|---|---|
International | Hertz, Sixt, Budget | Brand reliability |
Local Agencies | Sayara, Legend | Competitive rates |
Premium | Palms Rent A Car | Luxury fleets |
Money-Saving Tactics:
- Book 2-3 months early for 25% discount
- Use off-airport locations to avoid 20% airport fees
- Check “Airline Staff Rates” if eligible
Rent a Car Rates in Dubai
Dubai is known for its luxurious lifestyle, and who doesn’t want to drive a Porsche in Dubai? Here’s a sample table of car models along with their estimated rental prices so you know how much to hire a car in Dubai.
Car Model | Daily Rent (AED) | Deposit (AED) |
Toyota Yaris | 100 | 1,000 |
Nissan Micra | 120 | 1,000 |
Hyundai Accent | 110 | 1,000 |
Kia Picanto | 90 | 800 |
Nissan Sentra | 150 | 1,500 |
Honda Civic | 180 | 1,800 |
Ford Explorer | 250 | 2,500 |
Toyota Fortuner | 300 | 3,000 |
BMW 5 Series | 500 | 4,000 |
Mercedes-Benz E-Class | 600 | 5,000 |
Porsche Macan | 850 | 7,000 |
Factors that Influence the Rent a Car Rates in Dubai
When considering how much it cost to rent a car in Dubai, various factors come into play that can significantly impact the overall price. Let’s delve into these cost-influencing elements. To consider all potential costs, don’t miss the crucial details about Traffic Fines in Dubai to ensure a smooth journey!
- Type of Vehicle
Choosing the right vehicle is a game changer regarding rental prices in Dubai. Luxury Car Rental in Dubai cars, SUVs, and sports cars often have a higher price tag, while economy models are more budget-friendly. So, to cruise through the city in style, be ready for those premium costs. But don’t worry—there are plenty of economical options for the savvy traveler!
- Duration
The length of your rental also impacts your total cost. Renting for a day can be more expensive than renting for a week or more. Many rental companies offer sweet discounts for extended rentals, so if you’re in Dubai for a few days, it’s worth asking about those long-term rates!
- Season
Dubai’s peak tourist season runs from October to April, and due to high demand, rental prices can skyrocket during this time. If you can swing it, consider visiting during the off-peak months. You might score better rates and more availability, making your trip even sweeter.
- Additional Fees
Keep an eye out for sneaky extra fees that can add up quickly! Charges for insurance, fuel, or additional drivers, can inflate your rental costs. Plus, if you need extras like GPS or child seats, those can come with their fees. It’s wise to factor these into your budget to avoid any surprises.
Alternatives Car Services to Rentals
Other Transport Options in Dubai include
Service | Cost/Day | Best For |
---|---|---|
Uber/Careem | AED 150-300 | Short trips |
Udrive (car-share) | AED 120 | Hourly rentals |
Long-term Lease | AED 2,500/month | 30+ day stays |
Insurance Coverage for Rental Cars in Dubai
After learning how to rent a car in Dubai, having the right insurance coverage is essential for a stress-free adventure; Lookinsure provides comprehensive coverage options specifically designed for rental cars in Dubai so you can hit the road and enjoy your journey without fretting over unexpected bumps. Here are special coverages for rental cars in Dubai:
Critical Coverage:
- Mandatory Basic Insurance: Included in all rent a car rates in dubai (covers third-party damage)
- CDW/LDW: Reduces liability from AED 5,000 to AED 1,000 (recommended)
- Theft Protection: Essential for luxury rentals
Fee Alert:
- Security deposit: AED 1,000-7,000 (blocked on credit card)
- Young driver fee: AED 50/day (under 25)
- Cross-border penalty: AED 2,000 (if driven outside the UAE)
Comprehensive Insurance
With comprehensive insurance, you can cover all damages to your rental vehicle. Most rental companies just offer liability coverage, which means there is less protection against accidents. You can always buy a comprehensive insurance policy entirely online from Lookinsure. This means you won’t have to stress about the financial hit from repairs if an accident happens. With this coverage, you’re protected against third-party liabilities and any damages to your rental car, so you can confidently cruise through Dubai.
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
Collision Damage Waiver is here to minimize your financial worries in case of an accident. With CDW, you’ll only be liable for a set amount, which means you won’t have to shoulder the entire cost of repairs if something goes wrong. It’s a must-have for anyone when thinking about how to rent a car in Dubai while keeping risks at bay.
Theft Protection
Insurance companies also have theft protection to shield you from financial loss if your rental car gets stolen. With this coverage, you can relax, knowing you’re protected from hefty costs should your vehicle go missing.

Roadside Assistance
Are you worried about breakdowns or flat tyres? No need! Lookinsure’s roadside assistance has you covered with 24/7 emergency support. Whether you run into a technical issue or simply need help with a flat tire, we’re here to ensure your travels across Dubai stay hassle-free.

Flexible Coverage Options and Payment Methods
Every traveler is unique. That’s why Lookinsure offers flexible coverage options, letting you customize your insurance package to fit your trip’s length, vehicle type, and personal preferences. Besides this, you can pay your policy with BNPL services such as Tabby and Tamara for up to 4 installments.
Experience Dubai Your Way: Start Your Journey Today
Mastering how to rent a car in Dubai puts the city’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems within your reach. With transparent rent a car rates in Dubai and our proven 8-step process, you’re equipped to secure the perfect vehicle. Remember to prioritize comprehensive insurance for worry-free exploration. Rent A Car In Dubai confidently and create unforgettable memories on your terms.
Frequently Answered Questions
How to Rent a Car in Dubai Without Credit Card?
You can rent a car in Dubai without a credit card by choosing rental companies that accept debit cards or cash as payment.
What Documents Do I Need to Rent a Car?
To rent a car in Dubai, you’ll typically need the following documents:
1. A valid driver’s license (local or international)
2. A passport or national ID
3. A credit or debit card for payment (depending on the rental agency)
4. An international driving permit (if required by the rental company)
How Much to Rent an Accord Car in Dubai?
The rental price for a Honda Accord in Dubai typically ranges from AED 180 to AED 220 per day. However, rates may vary based on factors such as season, rental duration, and additional features in the rental agreement.
How to Rent a Luxury Car in Dubai?
To rent a luxury car in Dubai, research reputable car rental companies. Choose your preferred model and check its availability online. Ensure you meet the rental requirements, such as having a valid driver’s license, a credit card for the deposit, and sufficient insurance coverage. Booking in advance is recommended for better prices and availability.
Is Insurance Included in the Rental Price?
Insurance is often included in the rental price but may only cover basic liability. Therefore, reviewing the rental agreement and asking the agency about their insurance policies is essential. Consider additional coverage options for better protection depending on your needs and travel plans