Palm trees for skyscrapers? Got a California flight booked to check out the retro-futuristic appeal of Dubai? Renting a car could be your most advisable travel move. Public transportation is available, I suppose, but if you have a vehicle of your own, then you're able to do what you want with the city: cruise down Sheikh Zayed Road, for instance, or seek refuge in the red dunes of the desert. Having said that, it can be intimidating to rent a car in another country. So let's make it simple, no fluff, no filler, just the good stuff.
Renting a car in Dubai isn’t hard, but it’s not as plug-and-play as renting in the States. You’ll want to sort out a few important things before hopping on that long-haul flight.
This one's the most important. American visitors need to bring an International Driving Permit (IDP) in addition to their U.S. license. You can get an IDP readily by going through AAA or AATA. It's not a test or renewal license, it just interprets your existing license into several languages.
Without it, many rental agencies won't even give you the keys. Others will bend the rule, but if you are ever stopped by the police or are in an accident, without one, you can get into trouble with the law.
This should be a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised. Make sure your license is valid for the duration of your stay. If it expires while you’re abroad, your rental will no longer be legally valid. Renew it ahead of time if needed.
The majority of rental agencies in Dubai need drivers to be at least 21 years old. But if you're interested in a fancy sports car or luxury SUV, you may need to be 25 or older—or even 30. A few agencies also add a "young driver" fee for those under the age of 25. Consider that in your costs.
You'll need a credit card, not a debit card, for the security deposit. And although Dubai is generally safe, you do want to make sure you're protected. Some U.S. credit cards (particularly high-end ones) include rental insurance outside the country, but double-check that they include rentals in the UAE.
Dubai mandates third-party liability coverage, which is often part of the base rate. But extras such as collision damage waiver (CDW) or theft protection? Often optional. Think whether you need that peace of mind or if your credit card already covers you
Dubai is designed for driving, broad roadways, ample parking spaces, and smooth roads. But selecting the proper automobile can either make or ruin your vacation.
Let's be honest, Dubai is a city where it's commonplace to see a Bugatti sitting alongside a Camry. If you're willing to blow some money, this is where you're going to do it. Manufacturers such as Lamborghini, Ferrari, Bentley, and Rolls-Royce are readily accessible to rent. They're ideal for weddings, anniversaries, or simply indulging yourself.
But remember: you'll have to pay a huge deposit (sometimes as much as $5,000), and even a scratch will be expensive. Double-check the damage policy carefully.
SUVs are practical and convenient options, particularly for families, groups, or people who plan to venture out of the city limits. Off to Hatta or going on a desert safari? A 4x4 SUV is your friend.
Pro tip: If you'll be doing some desert driving on your own, find out if the SUV is desert-rated. They're not all designed for off-roading.
Dough's tight or just gonna be zipping around the city? Economy vehicles like the Nissan Sunny or Toyota Yaris are super cheap and a breeze to drive. Good gas mileage, easy parking, and they get the job done without making a big deal.
Just be careful… if you're going to drive far or have multiple passengers, these cars could become tight.
Dubai is slowly getting EV-friendly. Charge points are becoming more common in new areas and trendy neighborhoods, but they're not yet omnipresent. If you're residing in a hotel or home that has a charging point, by all means go for it. Otherwise, a hybrid may be the way to go.
Choosing a rental company in Dubai isn’t about just picking the cheapest rate. Reliability, service, and transparency matter more, especially if you’re dealing with a time difference or don’t want to waste time troubleshooting.
Perfect for: Luxury and sports cars
DreamRides is all about luxury and exotic rentals at the highest level. They provide concierge-level delivery, so your vehicle can pick you up at your hotel or the airport. They have Lamborghinis, McLarens, Bentleys, whatever you want. The service is white-glove, and the experience is premium throughout.
Ideal for: Variety and convenience
Renty is an excellent all-rounder. Their website is user-friendly, prices are upfront, and their customer service is rated very highly. They have everything from economy cars to Lambos. Great if you want choices but still desire a friction-free, no-surprises experience.
Best for: Price comparison and last-minute bookings
Conceptualize it as Dubai car rentals' Kayak or Expedia. One Click Drive lists what numerous companies have available and allows you to compare cars, prices, and availability in one site. It's especially handy for locating hard-to-find models or making a last-minute reservation.
Best for: Budget or long-term rentals
If you are going to stay for a month or simply wish for something reasonable and reliable, Speedy Drive fits the bill. They're competitively priced, and most of their cars are practical options (compact sedan, sedans, and some SUVs). Service is swift without frills.
Dubai’s roads are modern, but the driving culture can be intense. It’s not reckless, just fast-paced and assertive. Here’s what to keep in mind.
The good news? Most road signs are in both Arabic and English. That said, driving customs are different. Flashing headlights usually mean “Move over, I’m coming through,” not “Go ahead.” Stay alert and don’t assume drivers will follow U.S.-style right-of-way etiquette.
Dubai's toll system is Salik. It's automated and cashless, a tiny tag on the windshield that is scanned as you drive through toll stations. Each crossing is billed to your rental account (around 4 AED or ~$1.09 per gate). Most rental vehicles already have this system fitted.
Speed limits are strictly enforced through an extensive web of cameras. Unlike in the U.S., where you might be warned or see a cop car before being given a ticket, in Dubai, you'll simply be fined—sometimes not even realizing it until later. Even slight speeding can cost you, so always respect posted limits.
There is ample parking in Dubai, particularly in malls and hotels. Street parking is metered by day and free of charge at night. Most pay systems operate through SMS, app, or kiosks. Valet services are available but expensive (20-50 AED/$5-14). Look out for signs, parking fines are high.
Gas is much more affordable compared to California. Prices currently range about 3 AED per liter (~$3.80/gallon) as of early 2025. Filling up a standard sedan could cost you less than lunch at home.
If you’re heading from California to Dubai, renting a car can unlock the best of both city life and desert escapes. It’s not just about having a vehicle, it’s about choosing the right one for your journey, understanding the local rules, and working with companies that won’t waste your time or money.
Ensure your papers are in place, have an idea of what type of driving experience you desire, and choose a rental company that suits your style. After that, it's just a matter of getting behind the wheel and taking it all in, Dubai style.
Safe travels, and drive responsibly!
Also Read: New Yorkers in Dubai: How to Rent a Car for a Hassle-Free Trip
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