The Ultimate Guide to Car Rental in Dubai (From Cheap to Luxury – 2025)

Planning a trip to Dubai? There is no better way to explore this futuristic city—from the towering Burj Khalifa to the vast desert dunes—than with your own set of wheels. Public transport can be limited, and taxis get expensive. A car rental in Dubai gives you freedom and comfort.

But let’s be honest: renting a car in a foreign country can be confusing. What documents do you need? What about deposits? Is it expensive?

Don’t worry. This is the only guide you will ever need. We cover everything from cheap car rental for budget travelers to luxury car rental in Dubai for that dream experience.

Must-Know Requirements for Car Rental in Dubai (Read This First!)

This is the most important part. The documents you need depend on your visa status.

1. For Tourists (on Visit Visa)

To rent a car as a tourist, you will need:

• Passport: A copy of your passport.
• Visit Visa: A copy of your valid UAE visa.
• International Driving Permit (IDP): This is mandatory for many countries.
• Home Country Driving License: Your original license from your home country.

Pro Tip: Tourists from the GCC, UK, USA, Canada, and some other European/Asian countries can often drive with just their home country’s license (an IDP is not required). Always check with the rental agency first.

For UAE Residents (with Residence Visa)

If you have a UAE Residence Visa, the process is simpler:

• Emirates ID: Your valid Emirates ID.
• UAE Driving License: Your valid UAE driving license.

Age Requirement: The minimum age to rent a car in Dubai is usually 21 years. However, for sports and luxury cars, many companies (like your competitor, VIP Car Rental) require you to be 23 or even 25 years old.

Types of Car Rentals in Dubai: From a Sunny to a Lamborghini

Dubai offers every type of car imaginable.

1. Cheap & Economy Car Rental

• What it is: The most budget-friendly option. Think of cars like a Nissan Sunny, Kia Picanto, or Mitsubishi Attrage.
• Best for: Budget travelers, solo explorers, and running errands.
• Pro Tip: Look for “monthly car rental Dubai” deals on platforms like OneClickDrive or Dubizzle. Renting for a month is significantly cheaper per day than renting daily.

2. SUVs & Family Cars

• What it is: Comfortable and spacious vehicles like a Nissan Patrol, Toyota Fortuner, or Kia Sportage.
• Best for: Families traveling with luggage, or for a safe and commanding drive on Dubai’s large highways.

3. Luxury Car Rental Dubai

• What it is: The ultimate in comfort and style. Think Rolls Royce, Bentley, or a Mercedes G-Wagon.
• Best for: Business trips, special occasions, or simply enjoying top-tier comfort.

4. Sports Car Rental Dubai

• What it is: The “Dubai Dream” on wheels. This includes brands like Lamborghini, Ferrari, and McLaren.
• Best for: An unforgettable experience, turning heads, and enjoying the thrill of driving a supercar.

Understanding the FULL Cost: Deposits, Tolls, and Insurance

The daily rental price is not the only cost. Here’s what to expect.

• Security Deposit: Almost all companies require a security deposit (ranging from AED 1,000 to AED 5,000+ for luxury cars). This is held to cover any future traffic fines, damages, or Salik (toll) charges. You usually get this back 15-30 days after returning the car.
• “No Deposit” Car Rental: Some companies on Dubizzle or OneClickDrive now offer “car rental Dubai no deposit” options, but they might have slightly higher daily rates.
• Salik (Tolls): Dubai’s highways have an automatic toll system called Salik. Each time you pass a Salik gate (usually AED 5), it’s charged to your rental. The total amount is deducted from your deposit at the end.
• Insurance: Basic insurance is always included. For peace of mind, it’s highly recommended to get Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), which is a full coverage insurance that protects you from high costs in case of an accident.

5 Pro Tips for Driving in Dubai

1. Speed Limits are Serious: Dubai has excellent roads, but they are heavily monitored by radar. Fines are high, so always stick to the speed limit.
2. Zero Tolerance for Alcohol: Do NOT drink and drive. The UAE has a zero-tolerance policy, and the consequences are severe.
3. Parking is Easy (with an App): Parking is plentiful. You can pay at the meter or, more easily, by using the RTA Dubai app or sending an SMS (called mParking).
4. Roundabouts (Circles): Drivers already inside the roundabout have priority.
5. Use GPS: Dubai’s junctions can be complex. A GPS (like Google Maps or Waze) is your best friend.

Where Should You Rent From?

You have four main options, each with pros and cons.

1. Marketplaces (e.g., OneClickDrive): These platforms list cars from hundreds of different local rental companies.
   • Pros: Massive variety, very competitive prices, direct contact with the supplier.
   • Cons: Quality and service can vary between the different suppliers.
2. Aggregators (e.g., Skyscanner): These tools compare prices from major international brands like Hertz, Avis, and Europcar.
   • Pros: Good for finding deals from well-known global brands.
   • Cons: May not have the specific luxury/sports cars or the cheap local deals.
3. Direct Agencies (e.g., VIP Car Rental): These are companies that own their own fleet.
   • Pros: Excellent, specialized service (especially for luxury cars).
   • Cons: Less variety and possibly higher prices than a marketplace.
4. Classifieds (e.g., Dubizzle): These are simple listings, often from smaller vendors.
   • Pros: You can find very cheap deals and “no deposit” offers.
   • Cons: You must be careful and verify the company’s reputation.

Conclusion: Is Renting a Car in Dubai Worth It?

Renting a car in Dubai is the best way to see the city at your own pace. By understanding the requirements, choosing the right type of car (cheap or luxury), and knowing the rules, you can avoid stress and have an amazing trip.