Dubai is one of the best spots in the whole world to explore your passion as a car enthusiast. Whether it be Sheikh Zayed Road in the ever-coveted Lamborghini or cruising through the Burj Khalifa in a Ferrari, renting a supercar in Dubai is an experience you’re definitely not getting elsewhere. But we begin revving the engine, here are 10 things you should know before you rent a supercar in the City of Gold.
You must have a valid driving license before you drive a high-performance vehicle. Foreign visitors can hire a supercar with an International Driving Permit (IDP) and their home country's driving license.
However, if you are from any of the list of eligible countries (e.g., the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, and a number of European countries), your home country's license may suffice. UAE residents must possess a valid UAE driving license.
Dubai has strict age restrictions when it comes to renting supercars. While driving is permitted at the age of 18 in the UAE, most luxury car rental companies set an age restriction of 25 years and above for a high-performance supercar renter. Some might offer to rent a few cars to 21-year-olds but get ready to pay higher security deposits and add-on insurance charges.
Supercars are pricey vehicles, and rental companies must have confidence that they are with a safe person. A deposit is required for renting a supercar, ranging from AED 5,000 to AED 10,000 (about $1,300 to $2,700).
The deposit is usually taken on your credit card and returned after several days (or weeks), given that no fines or damages happen during the rental period.
Although basic insurance can be included within the rental fee, it's worth understanding what it covers. Third-party liability is included in most rentals, but you might consider an additional Comprehensive or Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) for accidental damage protection.
Always review the small print and check your insurance before signing your rental agreement to prevent unexpected costs.
Dubai has perhaps the most stringent traffic laws globally, and one will be hit with a huge fine for an offense. The speed limits are tightly monitored by radar cameras, and dangerous driving attracts fines in excess of AED 2,000 ($545) or even vehicle confiscation. Some key rules to remember:
Dubai employs an electronic toll, known as Salik, and it automatically deducts tolls from the vehicle's prepaid account. The toll gate will be AED 4 ($1.10), and these charges will usually be added to your final rental bill. Observe the frequent toll crossing, especially if you are going to be driving inter-emirates.
Supercar rentals usually have mileage limits to avoid excessive wear and tear. The majority of companies provide a 250–300 km daily limit, with extra fees for going over the limit (typically AED 10–20 per kilometer). If you are going to make long trips to Abu Dhabi or the Hatta Mountains, inquire about the mileage policy in advance.
Supercars need high-grade fuel (typically Super 98 in the UAE), and most rental companies require the car to be returned with the same level of fuel it was collected with. Some companies provide a full-to-full policy, while others will charge for refueling if the tank is not full. Remember that Dubai has an abundance of fuel stations, so refilling prior to returning the car is convenient.
There is a flexible pick-up and drop-off option by most of the rental companies. You can choose to pick up the car from the rental office or get it dropped off at your hotel, airport, or any point you want. Some companies have free delivery options within Dubai, but others charge an additional amount, especially if you want a location outside of the city.
Supercars do not come without responsibility. Stick to the speed limits, avoid driving recklessly, and also be considerate of pedestrians as well as other vehicles. Take care of the car as though it were yours, as damages, scratches, or excessive tear can lead to hefty fines. Have fun unleashing the joy of making the most out of your experience without being irresponsible.
Driving a supercar in Dubai is a thrilling method to experience the city in luxurious fashion, yet there are also obligations. Understanding driving license eligibility, age requirement, security deposit procedures, insurance policies, road traffic regulations, Salik fee charges, mileage caps, fuel rules, delivery and return preferences, and why one must practice defensive driving makes the experience as enjoyable and flawless as possible. Be guided, put on the seatbelt, and get set for the adventure of a lifetime!
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