Car Rental in Dubai

Where to drive

• Drive from Dubai to Abu Dhabi to visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and Ferrari World, a journey of approximately 140 km (1.5 hours).
• Explore the Hatta mountains and dam, offering stunning scenery and outdoor activities, about 130 km (1.5–2 hours) east of Dubai.
• Take a scenic coastal drive to Fujairah on the East Coast for snorkeling and diving, roughly 160 km (2 hours) from Dubai.
• Visit Al Ain Oasis, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its lush palm groves and historical forts, located about 160 km (1.5–2 hours) south of Dubai.
• Head north to Ras Al Khaimah for mountain adventures and beach resorts, approximately 100 km (1 hour) from Dubai.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Dubai, visitors typically need a valid passport, a valid driving license from their home country, and an International Driving Permit (IDP). Some nationalities may not require an IDP if their license is in English and issued by a country recognized by the UAE. The minimum age to rent is generally 21, with some companies requiring drivers to be 25 for certain vehicle categories or to have held their license for at least one year.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Dubai vary significantly based on vehicle class and seasonality. Economy cars might start from around 25-35 USD per day during off-peak times, while SUVs and luxury vehicles can range from 70 USD to several hundred USD daily. Prices tend to be higher during the cooler winter months (October to April) due to increased tourist demand.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In the UAE, traffic drives on the right. Speed limits are strictly enforced and vary: typically 60-80 km/h in urban areas, 100-120 km/h on main roads, and up to 140 km/h on some highways. Zero tolerance for alcohol while driving is enforced. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants, and children under four years old must be in an appropriate child safety seat.

Parking

Parking in Dubai is a mix of paid and free options. Most popular attractions, malls, and hotels offer ample parking, often paid or validated. Public paid parking zones are common in central areas and can be paid via parking meters, mobile apps, or SMS. Free parking can be found in residential areas, but spaces may be limited. Always check signage for specific rules and timings.

Fuel stations

Fuel is readily available throughout Dubai and the UAE, with numerous petrol stations. Prices are generally lower than in many Western countries, though they fluctuate. Payment can be made with cash or credit/debit cards. Most cars run on unleaded petrol, available in various octane ratings.

Which car to choose

For city driving and highway travel between emirates, a standard sedan or economy car is perfectly suitable and fuel-efficient. If you plan to venture into the desert for dune bashing (only with a specialized tour or experienced off-road driving), an SUV with 4x4 capabilities is essential. Automatic transmission is standard and recommended for comfortable driving.

Frequently asked questions