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Car rental in Dubai in 2025: how to rent a car, prices, rules, tips
Car rental in Dubai in 2025: how to rent a car, prices, rules, tips
Anton Moskalev
@Anton_Moskalev
Car rental in Dubai is essentially the most convenient way to get around the city. This is especially true if you are staying for a month or two, rather than just a couple of days, or if you have already obtained a residence visa. Taxis are not cheap here, public transport only operates in central areas, and distances are often such that you simply cannot do without a car. Moreover, the choice of cars is huge — from regular sedans and crossovers to luxury models and sports cars, if you want to ride with the wind in your hair through the desert or Sheikh Zayed Road.
But there is one important thing to keep in mind. When you first arrive, your international driver's license is valid, and you can rent a car with it. However, once you obtain your Emirates ID, everything changes: your international license becomes invalid, and you need to obtain a full local driver's license. Without it, you will not be able to rent or insure a car.
If you don't want to spend time learning the ins and outs at this stage, I can help. Write to me on Telegram @Anton_Moskalev, and I will tell you what documents you need and how everything works.
And if you want to rent a car and drive around Dubai without any surprises, it is important to contact a reputable company. Here, as in any industry, there are those who work honestly and those who try to take advantage of tourists' lack of knowledge. I have been living in the UAE for a long time and know who is best to deal with, so if you need any help, please write to me on Telegram, and I will provide you with reliable contacts. Luxury car rentals are available even for an hour.
If you are interested in moving, living, doing business, or investing in the UAE, subscribe to the Telegram channel Real Estate | Investments | Dubai. I regularly share the latest news, personal observations, and useful information there.
But there is one important thing to keep in mind. When you first arrive, your international driver's license is valid, and you can rent a car with it. However, once you obtain your Emirates ID, everything changes: your international license becomes invalid, and you need to obtain a full local driver's license. Without it, you will not be able to rent or insure a car.
If you don't want to spend time learning the ins and outs at this stage, I can help. Write to me on Telegram @Anton_Moskalev, and I will tell you what documents you need and how everything works.
And if you want to rent a car and drive around Dubai without any surprises, it is important to contact a reputable company. Here, as in any industry, there are those who work honestly and those who try to take advantage of tourists' lack of knowledge. I have been living in the UAE for a long time and know who is best to deal with, so if you need any help, please write to me on Telegram, and I will provide you with reliable contacts. Luxury car rentals are available even for an hour.
If you are interested in moving, living, doing business, or investing in the UAE, subscribe to the Telegram channel Real Estate | Investments | Dubai. I regularly share the latest news, personal observations, and useful information there.
What licence is required to rent a car in Dubai
What licence is required to rent a car in Dubai
The first thing to take care of before traveling to the Emirates is an international driver's license (IDP). Russian national licenses are not valid here, even if they are translated. Without an IDP, you will not be able to rent a car, get insurance, or drive legally if you are stopped by the police. So it's best not to put it off and get everything sorted out in advance.
The procedure is quite simple and takes just a couple of days. You will need to:
The procedure is quite simple and takes just a couple of days. You will need to:
- submit an application through Gosuslugi;
- pay a state fee of 1,120 rubles;
- choose a convenient traffic police office, date, and time of your visit;
- take a photo (if required);
- come at the appointed time and pick up your finished MVU.
Documents required to rent a car in Dubai, UAE
Documents required to rent a car in Dubai, UAE
To rent a car in Dubai, you will need a minimum of documents, but each of them is taken seriously here. The main list includes:
- A foreign passport with a valid visa (tourist or resident);
- International driver's license (IDL) — without it, the rental company will not issue a car, even if you have a Russian license;
- A bank card in your name — most often a credit card is required to block a deposit (from 1,000 to 5,000 AED depending on the car);
- Age — minimum 21 years old for regular cars and 25 years old for luxury and sports models.
Can I rent a car in Dubai without a credit card?
Can I rent a car in Dubai without a credit card?
When renting a car in Dubai, a deposit will be blocked on your card — this is standard practice. The amount depends on the class of the car and the rental company's policy, averaging between AED 1,000 and AED 5,000. This money is not debited, but frozen in your account, usually for 21–30 days. The deposit is required to cover any fines for traffic violations, toll roads (Salik), damage to the car, or late returns. Even if everything goes perfectly, it may take some time for the deposit to be released, so it's worth taking this into account when planning your budget.
Renting a car in Dubai without a credit card is technically possible, but not always easy. Most major rental companies, such as Hertz, Avis, or Thrifty, only accept credit cards because they are convenient for blocking the deposit. However, there are local rental companies that are willing to accept debit cards, cash, or bank transfers, especially if you are renting an inexpensive car for a short period of time. In such cases, they may take a cash deposit or simply increase the prepayment amount. The main thing is to check the terms and conditions with the specific company in advance and read the contract carefully: sometimes renting without a credit card comes with stricter restrictions on insurance or mileage.
Renting a car in Dubai without a credit card is technically possible, but not always easy. Most major rental companies, such as Hertz, Avis, or Thrifty, only accept credit cards because they are convenient for blocking the deposit. However, there are local rental companies that are willing to accept debit cards, cash, or bank transfers, especially if you are renting an inexpensive car for a short period of time. In such cases, they may take a cash deposit or simply increase the prepayment amount. The main thing is to check the terms and conditions with the specific company in advance and read the contract carefully: sometimes renting without a credit card comes with stricter restrictions on insurance or mileage.
Insurance, deposit, and deductible — what are they and how do they differ?
Insurance, deposit, and deductible — what are they and how do they differ?
When you rent a car in Dubai, the rental company almost always blocks a deposit on your card — this is an amount that is temporarily "frozen" in case of possible fines, damage to the car, or other expenses. This is usually between 1,000 and 5,000 dirhams, depending on the class of car. If you return the car without any accidents or fines, the money will be refunded, but not immediately, but within 20–30 days, as companies wait for possible notifications from the police or road services.
The deductible is already part of the insurance. If you are involved in an accident that is your fault, the insurance company will cover the main amount of the damage, but you still have to pay a small portion yourself — this is the deductible. It is a fixed amount, for example, 1,500 dirhams, and you only pay it if you are actually at fault.
Sometimes these amounts (deductible and deposit) are confused with each other, especially because in small rental companies they are treated as the same thing. But in essence:
The deductible is already part of the insurance. If you are involved in an accident that is your fault, the insurance company will cover the main amount of the damage, but you still have to pay a small portion yourself — this is the deductible. It is a fixed amount, for example, 1,500 dirhams, and you only pay it if you are actually at fault.
Sometimes these amounts (deductible and deposit) are confused with each other, especially because in small rental companies they are treated as the same thing. But in essence:
- The deposit is insurance for the company in case of fines and theft.
- The deductible is your share of responsibility if an accident occurs.
Car sharing services in Dubai, UAE
Car sharing services in Dubai, UAE
In Dubai, in addition to traditional car rental, there is also car sharing, a format familiar to many in Moscow or St. Petersburg. This is convenient if you don't need a car for the whole day, but only for a couple of hours or a trip around the city. The most popular services are Udrive and Ekar. They work through an app where you can find the nearest car, unlock it with your smartphone, drive the desired route, and end the rental. There are no offices or paperwork — all you need to do is register, upload your driver's license (including international licenses) and bank card. Prices start at 1 AED per minute or a fixed rate per hour/day. The price usually includes gas, insurance, and parking in the RTA zone. This is a good solution for those who are in town for a short time and don't want to bother with deposits and rental agreements.
Where to refuel in Dubai?
Where to refuel in Dubai?
Gas stations in Dubai are easy to find: they are literally everywhere, there are almost no queues, and gasoline prices remain among the most affordable in the world. There is practically no difference between the chains (ENOC, ADNOC, EPPCO) — the cost of a liter of fuel is regulated by the state, so fluctuations are minimal.
Cash payment is preferred — when paying by card, up to 80 AED is sometimes temporarily blocked, even if the refueling is less. The unit of measurement for fuel on the display is gallons (~3.78 liters), but the price per liter is often duplicated next to it for convenience.
Considering the price per liter, a full tank (50 to 70 liters in an average family car) will cost 130–190 AED, which is especially convenient if you plan to drive a lot, for example, on inter-emirate highways or on excursions.
In Dubai, you can even fill up your car via an app, and a special vehicle will come to the specified address and fill up your tank.
- Special 95 — about 2.58 AED per liter (~≈9.77 AED per gallon);
- Super 98 — approximately 2.70 AED per liter;
- E-Plus 91 — about 2.51 AED per liter.
Cash payment is preferred — when paying by card, up to 80 AED is sometimes temporarily blocked, even if the refueling is less. The unit of measurement for fuel on the display is gallons (~3.78 liters), but the price per liter is often duplicated next to it for convenience.
Considering the price per liter, a full tank (50 to 70 liters in an average family car) will cost 130–190 AED, which is especially convenient if you plan to drive a lot, for example, on inter-emirate highways or on excursions.
In Dubai, you can even fill up your car via an app, and a special vehicle will come to the specified address and fill up your tank.
Which navigation system should you use in Dubai?
Which navigation system should you use in Dubai?
Of all the navigation apps available in Dubai, Google Maps works best — it accurately shows traffic conditions, traffic jams, toll roads (Salik), and quickly recalculates your route if you take a wrong turn. But be careful at complex intersections: it's easy to get confused in the lanes, especially if the road splits into several directions without the usual signs. One wrong turn and you're not where you need to be, and the next turn may be 15–20 km away. In such cases, it can take up to half an hour to get back, especially during rush hour.
Traffic rules in Dubai, UAE
Traffic rules in Dubai, UAE
Traffic rules in the UAE should be strictly observed — they are really enforced here. Fines can be hefty, and if you commit a serious violation or get into an accident, it will not only ruin your trip but also result in additional expenses. If your rental car is towed or impounded, the rental company has the right to charge you for the cost of impoundment, which can be several hundred dirhams per day.
Traffic rules in the UAE are generally not very different from those in Russia, but there are some important nuances to keep in mind:
Traffic rules in the UAE are generally not very different from those in Russia, but there are some important nuances to keep in mind:
- In the UAE, traffic drives on the right. It is customary to give way to pedestrians and drive in the center lanes, leaving the outer lanes for overtaking, turning, or special transport.
- At intersections, the rule of giving way to traffic on the left applies.
- Road signs are similar to those in Russia, with inscriptions in English and Arabic.
- Using a mobile phone while driving is strictly prohibited — the fine can be as high as 800 dirhams, even if you are just holding the phone in your hand.
- Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers. Violations are recorded by cameras and carry a fine of 500 dirhams.
- The speed limit in the city is 40 to 80 km/h, on highways 100 to 120 km/h, and on some highways up to 140 km/h. The speed limit is 20 km/h without penalty. After that, fines start at 200 dirhams and increase depending on the speed.
- Children must travel in a car seat — violations are punishable by a fine and may result in insurance being denied in the event of an accident.
- Running a red light is considered a serious violation, with a fine of around 2,000 dirhams and possible towing of the vehicle.
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs carries a heavy fine, confiscation of the vehicle (usually for 30–60 days), revocation of your license, and legal proceedings.
- There are many roundabouts in Dubai, and there is a clear rule here: the roundabout is always the main road, and you must give way to vehicles entering it.
In the event of a traffic accident, you can report the incident by calling:
+971-4-266-38-88 or 999.
998 — emergency medical services
+971-4-266-38-88 or 999.
998 — emergency medical services
What to do in case of an accident in Dubai, UAE?
What to do in case of an accident in Dubai, UAE?
A traffic accident in Dubai is an unpleasant situation, but it is well organized. The main thing is not to panic and not try to leave the scene. First, you need to stop, turn on your hazard lights, and make sure that everyone is okay. Then contact a representative of the rental company: they will tell you what to do and call the police if necessary. The patrol usually arrives within 15–20 minutes, even if the accident is minor.
The police will assess the situation and issue special cards to those involved: green for those who are not at fault and red for those who are. If you receive a green card, simply return the car to the rental company, and that's it. The party at fault will have to pay for repairs or a portion of the deposit, the amount of which is determined by insurance and damage assessment. In any case, it is best to take photos of everything immediately and not sign anything without understanding what is stated in the documents.
The police will assess the situation and issue special cards to those involved: green for those who are not at fault and red for those who are. If you receive a green card, simply return the car to the rental company, and that's it. The party at fault will have to pay for repairs or a portion of the deposit, the amount of which is determined by insurance and damage assessment. In any case, it is best to take photos of everything immediately and not sign anything without understanding what is stated in the documents.
Parking in Dubai, UAE
Parking in Dubai, UAE
Parking in Dubai is well organized, but there are some nuances to be aware of. In the city center and tourist areas, most parking spaces are paid, especially on weekdays. The average cost is 2 to 4 AED per hour, depending on the zone (A, B, C, etc.). You can pay via a parking meter, SMS, the RTA Dubai app, or with a Nol card. In shopping centers, the first 2–3 hours of parking are usually free, after which you are charged by the hour, but if you keep your receipt, the payment is often waived.
There are also free parking spaces, mostly in residential areas, near beaches in the morning, or on the outskirts of the city. On Fridays and public holidays, paid parking spaces become free — this is fixed in the system. The main thing is not to forget to pay for parking on working days: cameras and inspectors work accurately, and the fine for unpaid parking is 150 AED.
There are also free parking spaces, mostly in residential areas, near beaches in the morning, or on the outskirts of the city. On Fridays and public holidays, paid parking spaces become free — this is fixed in the system. The main thing is not to forget to pay for parking on working days: cameras and inspectors work accurately, and the fine for unpaid parking is 150 AED.
Toll roads in Dubai
Toll roads in Dubai
In the UAE, the toll road system is different from that in Russia. There are more toll roads here, and they operate through a centralized Salik system. This is an electronic toll that is charged automatically when you pass under special arches on highways. There is always a sign on the arch, so you know in advance that you are driving on a toll road. There are no barriers, just a chip installed on the windshield of the car that records your passage.
The average cost is 4 AED per entry, sometimes up to 6 AED, depending on the section. If you rent a car, you will pay for all Salik tolls when you return the car — the rental company will charge you based on the chip. You can check how much you have accumulated yourself on the official website by entering your vehicle number or chip ID. The system is transparent, but it is still better to check the terms and conditions with the rental company: some add a small service fee.
The average cost is 4 AED per entry, sometimes up to 6 AED, depending on the section. If you rent a car, you will pay for all Salik tolls when you return the car — the rental company will charge you based on the chip. You can check how much you have accumulated yourself on the official website by entering your vehicle number or chip ID. The system is transparent, but it is still better to check the terms and conditions with the rental company: some add a small service fee.
Factors affecting car rental prices in Dubai and UAE
Factors affecting car rental prices in Dubai and UAE
The cost of renting a car in Dubai depends on several factors:
- Car class. Premium cars will cost significantly more. It is no coincidence that Ferrari and Lamborghini have become an integral part of the Dubai lifestyle — thousands of tourists come here specifically for this experience. However, economy or business class cars are perfectly adequate for comfortable travel around the city, especially if you are planning regular routes without any particular ambitions.
- Advance booking. If you book a car in advance — at least a week before your trip — you can save significantly. This is especially true during the high season, when popular models are quickly snapped up.
- Rental period. The longer the rental period, the lower the final price. When renting for a week or more, the daily cost will be significantly lower than when paying per day. Some companies offer good discounts for rentals of three days or more.
- Season. During the hot months, from April to October, demand for rentals drops and prices fall. During this period, you can find cars from $30 per day, especially if you are looking for standard models without luxury features.
The process of renting a car in Dubai, UAE
The process of renting a car in Dubai, UAE
To rent a car in Dubai, you need to:
- Contact a company representative and fill out a form with your personal information.
- When meeting or signing the contract online, carefully read the terms and conditions. The company will block a deposit amount on your card, which will be used in case of fines or damage to the car. If everything is in order, the deposit will be returned to your account within 30 calendar days.
- Carefully inspect the car before picking it up. All scratches, dents, and damage must be noted in the contract — otherwise, they may be charged to you when you return the car.
- Pay attention to the fuel level — it is important to know how much fuel was in the car when you picked it up.
- Check whether the car has passed its technical inspection and whether there are any outstanding fines.
- The car must be clean both when you pick it up and when you return it. Driving a dirty car in the UAE can result in a fine.
- Agree on the terms and place of return in advance.
Tips to keep in mind when renting a car in Dubai, UAE
Tips to keep in mind when renting a car in Dubai, UAE
There are several basic recommendations that will help you avoid problems when renting a car:
- Only rent a car from reputable companies. There have been cases where deposits were not returned or the return was deliberately delayed.
- If possible, take a UAE resident with you — a friend or relative who can act as a witness in case of a dispute.
- Read the rental agreement carefully, especially the sections on penalties, insurance, and car return.
- Do not transfer control of the car to third parties — fines and all responsibility always fall on the renter.
- Check the condition of the car when you receive it. Be sure to note any damage, even minor, in the contract before signing it.
- Make sure the car has a valid MOT and insurance — all documents must be with you or in the glove compartment.
- Follow the rules of the road. It is best to familiarize yourself with them in advance — the UAE has strict controls and high fines.
Frequently asked questions about car rental in Dubai and the UAE
Frequently asked questions about car rental in Dubai and the UAE
Yes, this option is available, especially if you rent a car for several days. This is called a one-way rental, and may incur an additional fee of between AED 100 and AED 300, depending on the distance between the locations.
You can check traffic fines in Dubai online via the official Dubai Police website or the RTA Dubai app. Simply enter your vehicle number, driver's license number, or traffic code. You can also use the DubaiNow app, which provides information on fines from all emirates. If you have rented a car, fines may not appear immediately, so it is best to check them yourself before returning the car to avoid unexpected charges to your deposit.
You can check traffic fines in Dubai online via the official Dubai Police website or the RTA Dubai app. Simply enter your vehicle number, driver's license number, or traffic code. You can also use the DubaiNow app, which provides information on fines from all emirates. If you have rented a car, fines may not appear immediately, so it is best to check them yourself before returning the car to avoid unexpected charges to your deposit.
Yes, leaving the UAE in a rental car is prohibited, even if you are traveling to neighboring countries such as Oman or Saudi Arabia. Exceptions are extremely rare and require a separate permit, deposit, and special insurance.
Renting supercars is a different story. For example, a Lamborghini Huracán or Rolls-Royce Wraith can be rented for between $1,000 and $2,000 per day, depending on the model, season, and conditions. The price usually includes mileage and basic insurance.
Within the city, the speed limit is usually 60 km/h, on highways it is 100 to 120 km/h, and on some sections of highways it is 140 km/h. Always pay attention to signs, as cameras are installed everywhere.
The permissible speed limit is no more than 20 km/h. Anything above that is automatically recorded by the system, and a fine is sent to the database. Even if you have rented a car, you are still responsible, and the amount will be deducted from your deposit.
No. Cameras on the roads in Dubai record not only speed but also phone conversations, unfastened seat belts, driving on the shoulder, and running red lights. Fines for such violations range from 400 to 3,000 AED, so it is best to strictly follow the rules.
Some parking meters still only accept cash, especially in older areas. However, in most cases, it is more convenient to use the RTA Dubai app or pay by SMS. Parking in shopping centers is usually free for the first few hours.
You can check traffic fines in Dubai online via the official Dubai Police website or the RTA Dubai app. Simply enter your vehicle number, driver's license number, or traffic code. You can also use the DubaiNow app, which provides information on fines from all emirates. If you have rented a car, fines may not appear immediately, so it is best to check them yourself before returning the car to avoid unexpected charges to your deposit.
As you can see, there are quite a few nuances, so if you plan to rent a car in Dubai, think through all the details in advance, from obtaining an international driver's license to choosing a reliable rental company. This will save you time and nerves, especially if you are in the city for the first time. I have been living in the UAE for a long time and know who is really worth working with here, whether it's renting a car without hidden fees or obtaining a local driver's license after receiving an Emirates ID. If you need help or just want to ask a question, write to me on Telegram @Anton_Moskalev, and I will be happy to help.
If you are interested in moving, living, doing business, or investing in the UAE, subscribe to the Telegram channel Real Estate | Investments | Dubai. I regularly share the latest news, personal observations, and useful information there.
If you are interested in moving, living, doing business, or investing in the UAE, subscribe to the Telegram channel Real Estate | Investments | Dubai. I regularly share the latest news, personal observations, and useful information there.
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