What to Check Before Renting a Car in the UAE (Must-Know Tips!)...

Are you considering renting a car in the UAE for your trip? Whether you explore Dubai's busy streets, marvel at the spectacular mosques of Abu Dhabi, or discover the mountains of Fujairah, you will find that travelling is much more comfortable with your own car. However, before you hold the keys, there are several things you should be aware of. Let's take a look at what you should check before renting a car in the United Arab Emirates!

1. Check for Validity – Is the Driving Licence Valid?

A valid driving license is necessary for any car rental in the UAE. 

As a tourist, you will require a license from your home country and an International Driving Permit (IDP).

For the UAE residents, you must provide a UAE driving license. The age limit is at least 21 years old; however, some companies require the driver to be 25 or older when renting a luxury car.

2. Understand the Insurance Policy Before Signing

Always check what insurance is included with your rental agreement. Most companies include basic third-party liability insurance. However, you might want to add Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or full coverage for extra protection.

Tip: Make sure you fully understand the insurance terms. If you’re unsure, ask the company to explain to you simply.

3. Inspect the Car Before Driving

Before driving your rental car away from the rental lot, examine it for scratches or dents; try to find cracks. Test the lights, brakes, air conditioning, and wipers. Take pictures or videos from all sides of the car.

Tip: Don't forget to ask the rental employees to state any damage on your rental document before you drive away.

4. Know Your Mileage Limitation

Ask if it provides unlimited mileage covered under your rental. Some companies offer a limited distance by how far you can go each day (for example, 250 km daily), which is not convenient if you expect long drives to Ras Al Khaimah or Al Ain. So, unlimited mileage is better.

5. Acknowledge Your Fuel Policy

Different companies have different fuel rules. 

Full-to-Full: You get the car full and return it full.

Same-to-Same: You return exactly the same fuel to the car as you received it. 

Tip: First, fill the tank and keep the fuel receipt when returning to avoid extra charges.

6. Know about Salik.

While driving in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, you will cross Salik gates (automatic toll gates). Each crossing costs about AED 4. 

Rental companies will either: 

• Add your Salik charges to your final bill.

• Or deduct it daily.

Tip: Do not forget to ask the rental company exactly how they manage Salik charges.

7. Enquire About Security Deposit

Most companies block a deposit amount on the credit card (1,000-3,000 AED). This money is held in case you get fines, damage the car, or do not pay for all tolls. The money deposit is mostly written off within 14-21 days after returning the car. 

8. Check for Cross-Border Travelling Permission

If you are required to take the car into Oman or any other country, you must have prior permission to do so, since not all rental companies allow such crossing across the border. In case of authorisation, you might need particular insurance and a No Objection Certificate (NOC).

9. Smart Comparison of Rental Companies 

Many reasonable car rental choices, such as Hertz, Thrifty, Al Hurr Car Rental (Abu Dhabi), and Budget, are available. But if you are looking for a fast and smooth rental, Al Hurr Car Rental is a good option if you are getting it booked from Abu Dhabi. You can book your car online and have it delivered to your hotel, at the airport, from our head office or home, without standing in long queues.

10. Select the Right Car for Your Trip

Choose a car aligning with your travelling style: 

• Sedans (like the Toyota Yaris) are ideal for city trips.
• SUVs (like the Toyota Fortuner) are best suited for long and desert trips.
• Get luxury cars (like BMW or Mercedes) if you love to pick a stylish experience.

Tip: Smaller cars that use less fuel should be your choice to save costs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Imperatives Before Renting a Car in the UAE 

1. Is renting a car easy for tourists in the UAE?

Yes! For a tourist, renting a vehicle becomes very easy because all that is required is a valid home country license and an International Driving Permit (IDP).

2. How much of a security deposit will I be looking at while renting a car?

Most companies block AED 1,000-3,000 on your credit card, depending on the kind of vehicle you select.

3. What do travelers find the best in Al Hurr Car Rental (Abu Dhabi) for car rental service in the UAE?

Travelers find the Al Hurr Car Rental convenient because of speedy booking with no hidden costs, car delivery service, and 24/7 support availability through an easy-to-use app.

Final Words

Renting a car in Dubai will help you visit many attractions, from the dunes in the desert to the lights twinkling in the city. Check these little but necessary things to save time and money, and enjoy every second of your travel. Drive safely and create memories over the beautiful Emirates!