With Dubai becoming more of a tourist hot spot each year, the car rental industry is also on the rise. However, just like other industries, consumers need to be wary of unscrupulous operators who seek to flounder the rules. If you’re not savvy, then you could be hit with a raft of unexpected costs that could significantly derail your holiday. So, how do you look out for these shank agencies? For starters, you need to do your research on reputable providers. For consumers, the phrase ‘if it seems too good to be true’, should be at the forefront of your mind. Look for established providers that have a good standing within the industry. And always be aware of any hidden costs attached to the rental agreement.
“If it sounds too good to be true…”
It’s understandable that you look around for the best value deal. But value should never be confused for the cheapest option. If money is particularly tight, shop around for a handful of cheaper car rental agencies. Then once you’ve done this, look for any glaring inconsistencies that stand out. If one provider is offering a standout deal, make sure you scrutinize it carefully.
Choose a Trusted Agency
Again, this is where a good element of research is important. It’s crucial that you choose a car rental agency that has favorable online reviews. This is a straightforward task to do – simply jump online and search for the best rental cars companies in Dubai or check out reviews of the agency on sites like Yelp. Whilst it’s tempting to believe reviews on Facebook, it’s been proven time and time again that these reviews aren’t reliable (they may be fraudulent).
Be Mindful of Fares
Many people plan their holiday in Dubai and simply accept the first car rental deal that’s being packaged. That’s because they haven’t done their research and are unaware of what’s a reasonable fare and what isn’t. Make sure that you’re aware of at least a ‘ballpark’ price for the type of car rental you require during your trip. That way you’ll know if the overall fare is exceedingly high before you book it.
Paying Way Too Much
If you’ve elected to have someone drive you and your guests during your trip, there may be instances where you’re asked to pay extra. Make sure you’re aware of what’s reasonable (tips are not required and it’s entirely up to you) and never pay more than what’s fair. In this instance, it’s important that you firmly state that all money has been transferred prior to the trip. You need to clarify that the car rental agency – to which the driver is employed – has already been paid.