There are numerous ways to explore in the Gulf states and getting a car rental in the UAE is certainly one of the best methods. The best way to explore the UAE isn’t by sticking to city buses, it’s by getting behind the wheel. One moment you’re passing futuristic towers, the next you’re out on a desert highway with mountains rising in the distance.
Renting a car here is easier than most travelers expect. The roads are excellent, fuel is affordable, and platforms like Renty Car Rental make booking quick and stress-free.
In this guide, we’ll look at what you need to rent a car, typical costs, and driving rules. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to turn a simple rental into your own UAE adventure.
What You Need to Rent a Car in the UAE
Skip the glossy brochures, here’s what it’s really like when you walk up to a car rental desk in the UAE. The process is not complicated, the rules are crystal clear, and most car rental services follow the same pattern.
Here’s what you’ll be asked for:
- Age: In most cases, the minimum age is 21. Some companies will allow this, while others require the driver to be 25, especially if you want a bigger or luxury vehicle.
- Driver’s License: Many visitors can use their regular license. However, in some situations, an International Driving Permit is needed, so it’s worth checking before you try to get a rental car.
- Passport and Visa Stamp: Your passport as well as proof of entry are required to rent a car.
- Credit Card: A credit card in the driver’s name is almost always required to rent a car in the UAE. There are few agencies that accept debit cards, but this is very rare.
- Insurance: Basic coverage is almost always included. Extra packages are available if you’d rather not worry about a scratch turning into a hefty bill.
With the formalities out of the way, you can get a rental car in no time. Most people are surprised by how quickly the process takes — sometimes you can pick up the keys in twenty minutes and already be planning your first stop!
Typical Car Rental Costs in the UAE
Prices in the UAE are easier on the wallet than many expect. A compact car can run cheaper than dinner for two in Dubai. SUVs push the cost up but provide more space for families or longer trips. And yes, luxury car rental is definitely an option in the UAE; flashy models sit right alongside the budget options.
Fuel is also low-price by global standards. Basic insurance is usually bundled in, while add-ons cover more if you want them. Rates can spike when demand is high, so book early if you can. Once you’ve booked, getting a spot to hire a vehicle is about as tricky as finding sand in the desert!
Driving Rules and Safety in the UAE
If you’re driving in the Emirates for the first time, you’ll find the roads modern and easy to follow. Speed limits are shown on highways, although traffic cameras are unforgiving — a small slip can quickly turn into a fine. Most highways allow 100–120 km/h, while city streets are slower, and police patrols are common.
Every car rental company will remind you that seat belts are mandatory for everyone in the vehicle. If you are caught texting while driving, expect a fine. Parking isn’t usually a problem, though in the busy parts of Dubai and Abu Dhabi, it can take some time to find a spot.
Locals can drive fast, especially on the open highways, but overall, the system is orderly compared to many other countries in the region. If you’ve come to the Emirates to rent a car, you’ll find it easy to adapt after a few minutes behind the wheel. Just remember: keep right unless overtaking, watch the roundabouts, and don’t be surprised if a supercar zips past — it’s all part of the scenery.
Final Thoughts
The Emirates may look small on the map, but behind the glass towers and desert highways, there’s a lot more to discover. This is where renting a car becomes your golden ticket. With the freedom to roam and travel light, you can trade the usual tourist checklist for a drive that feels more like an adventure.