Car Rental in Sharjah, UAE

Where to drive

• A cultural day trip to Al Qasba, Sharjah's premier leisure destination, with its canal, restaurants, and Eye of the Emirates Ferris wheel, all within Sharjah city limits.
• Drive to Dubai for a day of sightseeing at the Burj Khalifa and The Dubai Mall, approximately 30-45 minutes (30 km) depending on traffic.
• Explore the serene East Coast of the UAE with a scenic drive to Khor Fakkan, approximately 1 hour 30 minutes (120 km), offering beautiful beaches and mountain views.
• Visit the Hatta Mountains for outdoor activities like kayaking and hiking, about 1 hour 45 minutes (130 km) drive from Sharjah.
• Discover the historical sites and traditional markets of Ajman, a short 15-20 minute drive (15 km) from Sharjah.
• Embark on a desert safari experience in the nearby Mleiha Archaeological Centre area, approximately 1 hour (60 km), to witness ancient history and dune landscapes.

What documents you need

To rent a car in the UAE, 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 clearly states the license class. The minimum age to rent is usually 21, with some companies requiring drivers to be 23 or 25 for certain car categories, and often a minimum of one year's driving experience.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Sharjah generally start from around 20 USD per day for economy models, especially during off-peak seasons. Mid-range sedans might cost around 35-50 USD daily, while SUVs and premium vehicles can range from 70 USD upwards. Prices are typically higher during the peak tourist season (winter months) and tend to be lower in the summer.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In the UAE, traffic drives on the right. Speed limits vary: typically 60-80 km/h in urban areas, and 100-140 km/h on highways. Always adhere to posted signs. The alcohol limit for drivers is zero tolerance. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants, and children under four years old or under 135 cm tall must be in an appropriate child safety seat.

Parking

Sharjah offers a mix of paid and free parking. Paid parking zones are common in commercial and residential areas, often managed by parking meters or mobile apps (e.g., SMS parking). The system usually operates from 8 AM to 10 PM, Saturday to Thursday, with Fridays and public holidays often being free. Always check local signage for specific regulations. Many malls and larger attractions offer free parking for visitors.

Fuel stations

Fuel is readily available at numerous service stations across Sharjah and the UAE. Prices are generally affordable and regulated by the government. Payment can be made with cash or credit/debit cards. Stations typically offer different grades of petrol (e.g., Special 95, Super 98) and diesel.

Which car to choose

For city driving and exploring nearby emirates, an economy or compact car with automatic transmission is highly practical due to ease of parking and fuel efficiency. If you plan to venture into desert areas or require more space for luggage or passengers, an SUV is recommended. All major roads are well-maintained, so a 4x4 isn't strictly necessary unless you intend to go off-roading.

Frequently asked questions