You’ve landed in Dubai. The skyline glows, the desert stretches out, and your first thought? Rent a car. Why? Because taxis are expensive, public transport doesn’t reach everything, and you want the freedom to chase sunsets at Jumeirah Beach, hop to the Gold Souk at midnight, or take a spontaneous drive to Hatta. But with dozens of rental companies out there, which ones actually deliver? No hidden fees. No broken AC in 40°C heat. No surprise charges when you return the keys.
Key Takeaways
- Alamo, National, and Sixt offer the most reliable service with transparent pricing.
- Local brands like Thrifty and Europcar are great for budget travelers who don’t mind slightly older cars.
- Always check if insurance includes collision damage waiver (CDW) - many don’t unless you pay extra.
- Booking online before arrival saves you 20-30% compared to renting at the airport counter.
- Never skip the walk-around inspection. Take photos of every scratch before you drive off.
What You Need to Know Before Renting in Dubai
Dubai doesn’t play by the same rules as other cities. For starters, you need an international driving permit if you’re not from the GCC, EU, US, Canada, Australia, or a handful of other approved countries. Even if your license looks valid, the rental company will check. No permit? No keys.
Insurance is another minefield. Basic coverage usually only covers third-party liability. That means if you scratch a lamppost or hit a taxi, you’re on the hook for thousands of dirhams. Most travelers end up paying extra for Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or Super CDW. It’s not optional - it’s survival.
And yes, you’ll pay for fuel. Most companies give you the car full and expect it back full. Run out of gas? You’ll get charged up to AED 150 just to refill it. Pro tip: Fill up at any major station like ADNOC - they’re everywhere and prices are fixed.
Top 10 Rent A Car Companies in Dubai
1. Alamo
Alamo is the quiet winner for reliability. Their fleet is modern, clean, and well-maintained. You’ll find everything from compact Hyundai i10s to full-size SUVs like the Toyota Land Cruiser. Their Dubai Airport branch has a dedicated counter with minimal wait times. Their biggest plus? No hidden fees. What you see online is what you pay. No surprise upgrades, no fuel surcharges. They also offer free airport pickup and drop-off.
2. National Car Rental
National is Alamo’s sibling under the Enterprise umbrella, and they’re just as solid. Their Dubai locations are spread across the airport, Downtown, and Dubai Marina. They have a reputation for customer service - if something breaks down, they’ll send a replacement within two hours. Their “Unlimited Mileage” package is standard, which is rare in Dubai. Most companies charge extra for long drives to Abu Dhabi or Ras Al Khaimah.
3. Sixt
If you want to drive something flashy, Sixt is your go-to. They’ve got luxury models like the BMW 5 Series, Mercedes E-Class, and even Lamborghinis and Ferraris for special occasions. But they’re not just for show. Their economy cars - like the Nissan Micra - are priced competitively. Their app lets you skip the counter entirely. Scan your ID, unlock the car with your phone, and drive off. No paperwork. No lines.
4. Europcar
Europcar has been around since the 1950s, and they still know how to deliver. Their Dubai branch offers a wide range of vehicles, including 4x4s perfect for desert safaris. They’re one of the few companies that include basic insurance (CDW) in their base price. Their downside? Their fleet is older on average. If you care about new tech like Apple CarPlay or lane assist, check the model year before booking.
5. Thrifty
Thrifty is the budget king. You’ll find their cars at the airport and in major hotels. Their rates start as low as AED 60 per day for a basic hatchback. But here’s the catch: their cars are often older models (2018-2020), and the interiors show wear. If you’re only driving to the mall and back, it’s fine. If you’re planning a week-long road trip? Upgrade to a mid-size. Their customer service is hit-or-miss, so read reviews before booking.
6. Hertz
Hertz is the global name you recognize. In Dubai, they’re a solid middle-ground option. Their fleet is reliable, and their locations are everywhere - airport, Dubai Mall, Jumeirah. They offer 24/7 roadside assistance, which is a lifesaver if you get stuck in the desert or break down in the middle of the night. Their pricing is fair, but they’re not the cheapest. Worth it if you value peace of mind.
7. Avis
Avis is another international brand that performs consistently. Their Dubai branch is known for quick service and clean vehicles. They have a “Flex” program that lets you return the car at a different location - useful if you’re flying out of Abu Dhabi. Their downside? They sometimes add on unnecessary extras like GPS or child seats unless you opt out during booking.
8. Budget
Budget is the budget version of Hertz. They’re cheaper than Hertz but not as cheap as Thrifty. Their cars are decent, usually 2020-2022 models. They offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before pickup. Their biggest strength? They’re one of the few companies that let you pay in USD or EUR at the counter. Good for travelers who don’t want to exchange currency.
9. Enterprise
Enterprise doesn’t have a huge presence at the airport, but they have locations in Dubai Marina, Deira, and Al Quoz. Their service is personal - you’ll often deal with the same agent from booking to return. Their fleet includes hybrids and electric cars, which is rare in Dubai. If you’re eco-conscious, they’re your best bet. Their rates are mid-range, and they include unlimited mileage.
10. Local Gems: DriveNow and RentCars
Don’t overlook local players. DriveNow (a UAE-based startup) offers app-based rentals with no paperwork. You book, unlock, and drive. Their cars are newer, and prices are 15-20% lower than international brands. RentCars is another local favorite with a huge inventory of SUVs and luxury sedans. Both require a local ID or Emirates ID for booking, but if you’re staying longer than a week, they’re the smartest choice.
How to Find the Best Deal
Don’t book at the airport counter. Ever. You’ll pay 30% more. Use comparison sites like Kayak, Rentalcars.com, or Google Flights’ car rental tool. Filter by “free cancellation” and “unlimited mileage.” Book at least 3 days ahead - prices spike during weekends and holidays like Eid or Dubai Shopping Festival.
Pro tip: Use a credit card with rental insurance. Many premium cards (like Amex Platinum or Chase Sapphire) include CDW coverage. That could save you AED 1,000+ on insurance.
What to Expect When You Pick Up Your Car
Walk around the car. Every. Single. Side. Take photos of every dent, scratch, or cracked mirror. Even a tiny one. The staff will try to blame you later. If they say, “Oh, that’s old,” ask for a written note. If they refuse? Walk away. You’re not risking your deposit.
Check the fuel level. Write it down. Check the tire pressure. Test the AC. If it’s blowing warm air, ask for a replacement. Dubai summers are brutal. A broken AC isn’t a minor issue - it’s dangerous.
Get the emergency number. Every company gives you a 24/7 hotline. Save it in your phone. And know where the spare tire and jack are. You don’t want to be stranded on Sheikh Zayed Road at 2 a.m. with no tools.
Cost Breakdown: What You’ll Actually Pay
Here’s what a typical 7-day rental looks like in December 2025:
- Basic hatchback (Hyundai i10): AED 420 total (AED 60/day)
- Mid-size sedan (Toyota Camry): AED 980 total (AED 140/day)
- Full-size SUV (Toyota Land Cruiser): AED 2,100 total (AED 300/day)
Add insurance: +AED 200-500 (CDW). Add GPS: +AED 100. Add child seat: +AED 70. Fuel: AED 150-250 depending on your driving.
Total for a family of four? Around AED 1,800-2,500 for a week. That’s cheaper than taxis for the same period.
Comparison Table: International vs. Local Car Rental Companies in Dubai
| Feature | International (Alamo, Hertz, Sixt) | Local (DriveNow, RentCars) |
|---|---|---|
| Price per day (economy) | AED 65-90 | AED 50-70 |
| Car age | 2022-2024 | 2023-2025 |
| Insurance included | Usually not (CDW extra) | Usually included |
| Booking process | Website or app | App-only |
| Customer service | 24/7 phone support | Chat/email only |
| Best for | First-time visitors, short stays | Long-term stays, tech-savvy travelers |
What to Avoid
Don’t rent from street vendors. No, really. They’re not licensed. You’ll get a car with fake paperwork. Get pulled over? You’re fined, not them.
Don’t trust “zero deposit” offers. They’re just hiding the fee in your insurance or daily rate.
Don’t drive without your license and ID. Police checkpoints are common. If you can’t show both, you’ll be fined AED 500 and your car will be impounded.
FAQ: Your Questions About Renting a Car in Dubai Answered
Do I need an international driving permit to rent a car in Dubai?
Yes - unless you’re from the EU, US, Canada, Australia, UK, GCC countries, or a few others. Even if your license is in English, Dubai police and rental companies require an IDP. You can get one from your local automobile association before you leave home. It costs about $20 and takes 15 minutes.
Can I rent a car if I’m under 25?
Most companies require you to be at least 21. But if you’re under 25, expect a young driver fee - usually AED 20-40 per day. Some local companies like DriveNow waive this fee if you book for 5+ days.
Is it safe to drive in Dubai?
It’s safe if you follow the rules. Speed limits are strictly enforced, and fines are steep - up to AED 3,000 for going over 120 km/h. Use GPS to avoid toll roads (Salik) unless you’ve paid the deposit. And never use your phone while driving - cameras catch everything. Drive defensively. Dubai drivers are fast, but not reckless if you stay in your lane.
What happens if I get a speeding ticket?
The rental company will send you the fine - usually within 2-4 weeks. They’ll charge your credit card for the ticket plus a AED 100 administrative fee. If you don’t pay, they’ll block your card or report you to authorities. Pay it immediately. Don’t wait.
Can I take the rental car to Abu Dhabi or other emirates?
Yes - but check your contract. Most international companies allow it. Some local ones don’t. If you’re going to Oman or Saudi Arabia, you need special permission and insurance. Never cross borders without confirming first.
Final Tip: Book Early, Drive Smart
Dubai’s car rental market is competitive, but not forgiving. The best deals vanish fast during peak season. Book online. Compare prices. Read the fine print. And when you pick up your keys - take those photos. You’ll thank yourself when you walk out with your deposit intact.
