Step-by-Step Guide: Renting a Car in Dubai and What You Need for It

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The ease of renting a car in Dubai instead of owning it cannot be overestimated. As a country with an excellent car rental industry, the UAE’s car rental companies serve various transportation needs. For instance, you can easily rent BMW X5 in Dubai for a business meeting while the same company will also serve someone else’s needs for an economy car.

The Dubai car rental industry is sophisticated and developed, as it caters to varying car hiring needs. Meanwhile, this does not negate that you must note some compelling points when renting. 

This article will enlighten you on how to make an informed car rental decision and get the best value for your dough.

A Guide to Renting a Car in Dubai

Hiring a car in Dubai is straightforward. With all the needed knowledge, you can complete the rental procedure in minutes. Also, many car-for-rent companies now offer online booking and verification services. This enables you to rent even without visiting the company in person. 

Below are the steps to follow when hiring a vehicle in Dubai:

Choose a Reliable Car Rental Company

Start your rental process by choosing a good rental company. Check for rental companies online and read the reviews. Also, ask people around you for recommendations. 

To choose a rental company, consider the price, rental policies, insurance, ease of renting, and the varieties of vehicles they have. Ensure you know their agreement and only choose a transparent rental company. 

Check Eligibility Criteria

It helps to ensure you meet the rental company’s eligibility criteria. Typically, the minimum age to rent a car is 21 years. Some companies may have additional requirements, so it’s crucial to review these beforehand.

Understand Rental Car Insurance

Review the rental company’s insurance when renting a vehicle. Check the policy, the security it guarantees, and what it covers. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or check anything that is unclear to you online. 

Get Your Documents Together

You need to submit some documents when renting a car. Whether you want to rent for short-term or long-term, car-for-rent companies require that you submit some documents for safety and official purposes. We will discuss the documents extensively later in this article.

Also, consider your budget and prepare to get a vehicle within the range. 

Assess Your Rental Car

After you have submitted the required documents, paid, and completed the process, the next thing is to go for the rental car. While you may be excited and eager to start driving the vehicle immediately, thoroughly assess it before taking it away. 

Follow Local Traffic Rules

Familiarize yourself with local traffic rules and regulations. Dubai has strict traffic laws, and adherence to them is essential for a safe and enjoyable driving experience. Stay within speed limits, use seat belts, and avoid using a mobile phone while driving.

Don’t Keep a Rental Car beyond the Agreed Rental Period

The consequences of keeping a rental car beyond the agreed time may be unpleasant. You may even be sued for a breach of agreement. In most cases, you will have to pay more for the vehicle. You may end up paying for almost a full-day rental, even if the extra time is a few hours. As such, it helps to renew your rental agreement if you notice that you need to spend more time.

Documents Needed to Rent a Car in Dubai

Some documents are required to rent a vehicle in Dubai. These documents serve as a guarantee to the rental companies, and many will not let you leave with the vehicle without having them in order. Therefore, knowing about them can help make your rental journey easier. 

For Emiratis

As an Emirati, you need documents that prove your identity and also prove you can pay for the vehicle you are renting. You do not need to leave these documents with the rental company. Instead, they will only have it scanned and keep a copy. 

Documents needed to rent a car as an Emirati include:

• Passport
• Residential Visa
• A valid UAE driving license or international driving license.
• Emirates ID copy.
• Proof of income. 

For Tourists

Tourists also need documents to assure the rental company that they are legally in the country and can afford to rent the vehicle. Many rental companies hold on to some of these things as guarantees that tourists will not disappear with their cars. Therefore, they usually request the original copy of some documents.

You need the following documents as a tourist in Dubai before you can rent a car:

• Original visit visa.
• Original passport.
• Original driving license from your home country or copy of international driving license.

Conclusion

Exploring car hiring services in Dubai allows you to enjoy Dubai’s vibrant cityscape at your own pace, making your journey enjoyable and convenient. While technology will make a significant part of your rental journey easy, knowing all the necessary information is also essential. As such, this article has equipped you with tips for a worthwhile experience when renting a car in Dubai.