Car rental in Dubai: prices, rules, life hacks

Prices and what's included

Economy (Nissan Sunny, Kia Pegas): from AED 80/day (~€1,800). Mid-range (Toyota Yaris, Nissan Tiida): from AED 120. Crossover (Mitsubishi ASX): from AED 200. Premium (BMW 5, Mercedes E): from AED 600.

Basic insurance is usually included. Full coverage (zero-deductible) is separate at AED 30–60/day. Recommended on expensive cars.

Documents

Russian citizens need an international driving permit (IDP) plus their national licence. Without an IDP you won't be given a car. Minimum age — 21, and 25 for the premium class.

A deposit is held on the card: AED 1,000–3,000 depending on the class. Visa/Mastercard, sometimes American Express.

Salik — automatic road tolls

Along the main Sheikh Zayed Road highways and bridges there are Salik gantries charging AED 4–6 per pass. The provider adds this to your bill at the end of the rental. Ask them to give you a full list of charges with dates and locations — sometimes they add a service fee on top that can be disputed.

Speeding fines

The UAE has strict automated speed control. Exceeding the limit by more than 60 km/h means an AED 3,000 fine. Providers deduct the fine amount from the card automatically plus an admin fee of AED 50–100. Always keep to the highway limit (usually 120 km/h).

Where to drive in a rental car

Hatta — a mountain resort 130 km from Dubai, a 1.5-hour drive. Abu Dhabi and the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque — 130 km. Al Ain — an oasis with camels and forts, 160 km. All routes are on perfect tarmac; you need a regular car, not an SUV.