While renting a car in Dubai, it is really very important that you follow the rules that govern renting cars in the city. If you don’t, you may end up (literally!) facing the music!
Driving License
As is the case in most other parts of the world, you need a driving license to rent a car in Dubai. While locals can do just fine with a UAE license, expats need an International Driving License. In some instances, local licenses of some countries are acceptable in the UAE; otherwise they first need to get a license made locally.
Minimum Age Limits
While to drive in the UAE, you need to be at least 18 years old, you need to be 21 to rent a car. Some car models mandate a minimum age of 25 to be driven.
Security Deposit
A security deposit is standard practice on all rental cars. So if you are renting a car in Dubai, be prepared to pay a security deposit on it. The best way is to block a certain portion on your credit card; this blocked amount is then ‘unblocked’ when you return the car without incident to the car rental firm.
Driving beyond the UAE
Most car rental firms rent cars that are to be driven within the UAE only; you will not be able to take them outside. We mention this especially because many customers are quite keen to take their cars to neighbouring places, especially Oman. For this, you will need someone else with their own personal vehicle, and not your rental car.
Valid Insurance
Your rental car has to have valid insurance on it without exception. Most rental firms offer insurance as standard practice so that is not a concern. What you do need to look for is the coverage that is offered, especially inclusions and exclusions. The idea will always be to have maximum coverage in case something untoward happens unfortunately.
Salik Toll Charges and Fines
Salik is the automated toll system prevalent in Dubai. All Salik charges will be added to the final payable amount. Likewise, in case your vehicle is imposed with a fine – say you parked wrongly or were caught driving without your seatbelt on, then the fine for that will also be added to the final bill you are to pay.
Conclusion
Armed with clear information on the rules that apply when renting cars in Dubai, feel free to rent any of the numerous cars that we at Speedy Drive have in our arsenal!