Renting a car in Dubai can offer tourists and residents a convenient and flexible way to explore the city without the constraints of public transportation or the commitment of vehicle ownership. While public transportation in Dubai is efficient, many tourists still prefer the independence of driving themselves. For residents, renting a car can be a more convenient option, especially for those who have recently relocated to the emirate and do not want to make a long-term financial commitment to buying a car.
To rent a car in Dubai, expats only need to present a valid Dubai driving license, along with their Emirates ID and a copy of their passport. Tourists, on the other hand, need to provide their original passport, visit visa details, and a valid driving license from their home country. If the license is not from a recognized country, an international driving permit is required.
There are several ways to rent a car in Dubai, including smart rental services offered by Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) through apps like ekar and Udrive. These apps allow users to rent a car per minute, daily, weekly, or monthly without the need for a deposit payment. Renting through these apps is simple and convenient, offering options for scheduled delivery or instant booking at RTA parking lots.
Additionally, tourists and residents can rent a car from traditional rental companies like Speedy Drive, Hertz, and Avis. These companies have multiple locations across the emirate and offer a variety of car options for different budgets and preferences. Fees for renting a car in Dubai vary depending on the rental company, the type of car, and the duration of the rental. Daily rates can range from as low as Dh24 to Dh30 per hour for smart rental apps, up to Dh89 per day for traditional car rental companies.
Eligibility to rent a car in Dubai is straightforward for residents with a valid Dubai driver’s license or tourists from GCC countries using their home country’s license. Those with licenses from recognized countries like Australia, UK, US, and others can also rent a car in Dubai. For tourists and residents from other nationalities, an international driving license is required to rent a car in the emirate. Overall, renting a car in Dubai provides a flexible and convenient transportation option for both tourists and residents looking to explore the city at their own pace.