Are you planning your trip to Dubai and wondering whether renting a car in Dubai is a good idea? Between the long distances to cover to enjoy the city, the sometimes enigmatic conditions and the crazy dream of driving a luxury car on Dubai's immaculate roads, we understand you! Follow our guide, and we'll tell you everything you need to know to find the perfect car, avoid the pitfalls, and maybe even realize your fantasy of driving a Lamborghini or a black Rolls Royce Cullinan.
Why rent a car in Dubai? Car hire in Dubai gives you total freedom to explore the city and its surroundings. For both short breaks and extended vacations, it's the most practical way to cover the long distances between attractions. So, what are the advantages of this type of rental?
The car rental market in Dubai is highly varied. You'll find economy models, SUVs, luxury cars and even sports cars. Agencies can be found at the international airport, in the city center and in many hotels. Prices start from €10 per day for economy cars, but rise for premium models. To find out how to rent a car in Dubai, read our complete guide.
In Dubai, the car is the preferred means of transport for making the most of the city and its surroundings. The roads are impeccable and the road network well-developed. Distances between attractions are often long, making walking impractical. With a rental car, you can explore Dubai at your own pace and even set off to discover the surrounding deserts or other emirates.
To rent a car in Dubai, you'll need a valid driver's license, often accompanied by an international license. A passport is also required. The minimum age varies between 18 and 25, depending on the agency. To help you prepare for your trip, read our complete guide to car rental in Dubai.
As far as payment is concerned, credit cards are the most common means of payment. Some agencies accept cash or debit cards, but this is less common. The amount of the deposit varies according to the vehicle and the duration of the rental. Some agencies even offer rental without deposit, at a higher price.
| Criteria | Details | Agencies concerned |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum age | 18 years old | Sixt |
| Minimum age | 21 years old | Most agencies |
| Minimum age | 25 years (for luxury cars) | Some agencies |
| Required documents | Valid permit (French accepted), passport, credit card | All agencies |
| Security deposit | Amount varies according to vehicle and duration | Some agencies |
| Security deposit | No-deposit option (higher rental price) | Sometimes |
| Cards accepted | Credit card required | All agencies |
| Rental prices | From €9 per day | On average |
Third-party insurance is compulsory. We strongly advise you to check your supplementary insurance options, especially if you plan to drive in the desert.
Economy cars are available from €10 per day. Toyota Yaris and Nissan Kicks are among the most popular models for limited budgets.
Dubai is a dream car paradise. You can drive models such as Lamborghini Huracán EVO, Ferrari 488 or black Rolls Royce Cullinan. If you want to go even further, take a look at our selection of luxury cars for hire in Dubai, including Ferraris and Rolls Royces. For an even more exclusive experience, opt for a sports car in Dubai.
Dreaming of exploring the desert in a 4×4? Models like the Jeep Wrangler are perfect. Expect to pay around AED 300 per day for these machines.
Monthly packages are ideal for longer stays. Some agencies offer packages from AED 1,490 per month, with the option of changing cars at the end of the contract.
Prices vary according to category. An economy car costs around €10 a day, but a luxury sedan can cost several hundred euros daily.
Rates depend on the season. In low season, prices start from €10 per day. In high season, prices can double. To save money, check out our guide to the best times to visit Dubai.
Discounts of up to 40% are available. Some agencies offer special deals, especially to members of their loyalty programs.
Several options are available for a fee: GPS, baby seat, hotel delivery. Some agencies offer free delivery for luxury cars. WiFi is a practical option for discerning drivers.
In Dubai, you drive on the right, just like in France. There is zero tolerance for drinking and driving, with a total ban. Speed limits vary from road to road: 100 km/h on Sheikh Zayed Road, 120 km/h on Emirates Road and 70 km/h on Jumeirah Road. Checkpoints are frequent, so be careful!
The Salik system is Dubai's electronic toll collection system. An RFID tag on the windshield allows non-stop passage. The cost, around AED 4 per passage, is deducted from a prepaid account. For rental cars, the fee is usually charged on return. It's a smooth system that avoids traffic jams at barriers. Payment is made automatically without slowing down.
Never explore the desert alone! Prefer outings in convoy. In town, blue parking lots are chargeable (8am-10pm), white ones free. To avoid traffic jams, avoid the peak hours of 7am-9am and 4pm-7pm. Google Maps is your best ally for getting around traffic jams.
In Dubai, several car rental agencies are present at the international airport. Among the best-known are Europcar, Hertz, Sixt, Budget and Avis. You'll easily find them in the arrival terminals.
To collect your car from the airport, head for the counters in the arrival terminals. Terminals 1 and 3 are the most well-stocked with agencies. Each counter offers a smooth service, especially if you have booked in advance. Some, like Sixt, are open 24 hours a day.
Renting at the airport has its advantages: quick access on arrival, but beware of prices that are sometimes higher than in the city. It's up to you to decide whether the time you save is worth the budget difference.
In high season, it's best to book online to guarantee availability. Ideally, plan 1 to 2 weeks in advance, especially for specific models such as SUVs or luxury cars.
The delivery and pick-up service at the airport is well established. Some agencies even allow the vehicle to be returned to another city, such as Abu Dhabi or Sharjah.
There's no shortage of premium services at the airport. Need a Lamborghini or a black Rolls Royce? Sixt Prestige and other high-end agencies are there. From personalized assistance to express delivery, everything is possible.
| Agency | Benefits | Average price (AED) |
|---|---|---|
| Europcar | Wide choice of vehicles, smooth service | From 100 |
| Sixt | Luxury cars available, open 24 hours a day | From 150 |
| Hertz | Premium service, well-maintained vehicles | From €130 |
| Alamo | Large SUVs available | From 120 |
To avoid queues, choose off-peak times. Online booking remains your best ally. Certain platforms, such as Renty or OneClickDrive, simplify the process and save you time.
Third-party insurance is compulsory when renting a car in Dubai. Most rental agencies offer this, but please check before booking. These insurances are often called APD (Loss and Damage Insurance) and CDW (Collision Damage Waiver), covering damage to the vehicle.
If you plan to travel outside Dubai, additional glass and tire insurance is highly recommended. Be sure to read the terms and conditions of each insurance policy to avoid unpleasant surprises.
Dubai has several charging stations for electric vehicles. You can find them all over the city. Chargemap lists over a hundred!
Tesla charging stations are available in strategic locations such as the Dubai Mall, Fairmont Dubai, Emirates Towers and Jebel Ali. Some hotels in Dubai also offer charging stations for their guests.
Yes, there are several apps to make car rental in Dubai easier. These applications allow you to quickly find the right vehicle for your needs.
For example, the Dubaicars app helps you find economy and luxury cars. Yango Drive also offers a mobile app to easily book cars, from compacts to SUVs and luxury cars. Others like Exford Rent a Car also mention an app to simplify rental.
Long-term parking in Dubai is available in pay and multi-storey parking lots, where you can leave your car for up to 30 days. Some establishments, such as Le Méridien, offer 10-day packages.
At Dubai International Airport, long-term parking options are also available. Rates vary according to terminal and duration. See the airport website for details.
