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“How to” Guide – Online Car Rental UAE!

March 22, 2023

The United Arab Emirates is a car-centric nation. Cars are the most popular means of transportation for residents and tourists due to the tropical desert environment, low gasoline prices, and extensive road network. Let’s discuss more on How to get online car rental UAE!

Furthermore, the roads here are immaculate, well-maintained, and safe to travel at speeds of 120-130 km/h. Renting is reasonably priced, and public transportation does not reach many regions, which makes having your car more convenient and less expensive than taking a cab.

Keeping in mind the local driving rules and vehicle rental restrictions, here are some factors to think about before renting a car in the UAE:

Eligibility Criteria

To rent a car in the UAE, you must fulfill the following requirements:

a. Be at least 21 years old (some rental servicing companies require 23).

b. Possess a valid driver’s license from your home country.

c. Possess a credit card for payment (the rental firm may place a hold on your credit card for the cost estimate of the rental and an additional amount as insurance), and

d. Be able to show proof of insurance coverage if renting outside the UAE.

Should you get rental vehicle insurance?

Before purchasing car rental insurance, evaluate your auto insurance policy to prevent duplicating coverage for which you currently pay.

In addition to car insurance, certain credit cards will automatically pay your collision deductible and any charges that may exceed the limits of your primary insurance. As a result, you should avoid purchasing an accident damage waiver or loss damage waiver.

GCC or non-GCC cars?

The type you select gets determined by your nationality, visa status, and possession of an international driving license. If you do not have a valid UAE driver’s license and wish to drive in the UAE, you must first get an international driving permit (IDP) from your country of residence before traveling to the UAE.

Short or long-term rentals

After you’ve decided to rent a car in the UAE, the next significant decision is whether to rent for a short or lengthy period. All car rental firms here provide a selection of short- and long-term car rentals.

Short-term vehicle rental is ideal for a road trip or a weekend getaway, and a long-term car rental is a cost-effective option for people wishing to borrow a car for a longer time, typically months or even years. Such car rental deals can be less expensive than short-term choices.

Find a reliable rental firm

To search for a reputable car rental firm in the UAE, you can use Google or another search engine. You may also visit internet directories like Yelp or the Better Business Bureau.

Analyze the pricing

Once you’ve selected a few firms, contact them directly to enquire about their rates. Before finalizing, it is critical to compare rates from several companies. Inquire about any extra fees or charges that may apply.

Required Documents –

Here’s what you’ll need to submit:

Copy of Passport
International Driving Permit for Non-GCC Residents
Auto insurance company information
Income verification.
Proof of residence.

Vehicle Inspection

It is critical to examine the car for damage before driving off in a rental car in the UAE. You may be held accountable for any damage to the car during your rental time. It is also critical to check that the vehicle is in good operating condition and that all safety systems are operational. You should also check if the vehicle attachments, such as GPS and kid safety seats, are correctly fitted. He should check the tyre pressure, fuel/oil, and radiator fluids and notify the owner of any faults.

What should you do when it’s time for pickup?

Before driving away from the rental car facility, thoroughly check the vehicle for any damage. It is advisable to take photos of any dents or scrapes and get them noted on the rental car contract.

Can you cancel a car rental?

Surprisingly, you may frequently cancel a rental vehicle reservation or fail to show up for a rental before the pickup date. If you cancel a prepaid reservation, you will receive a complete refund minus a cancellation charge, which varies according to the rental service firm.

Are pets permitted in rental cars?

Most car rental firms in the UAE are pet-friendly, with no additional fees. Keeping in mind to return the vehicle clean and free of pet hair can help you avoid any additional cleaning charges.

Driving in the UAE

UAE is infamous for its crazy driving, so we urge you to be prepared! To avoid accidents or misunderstandings on the road, we recommend getting acquainted with some fundamental road regulations in the UAE, such as staying to the right unless passing, using indication signals when changing lanes, and yielding to pedestrians and emergency vehicles. Also, keep in mind that speed restrictions vary from 40 km/h (25 mph) in residential areas to 120 km/h (75 mph) on major roads.

Parking

Because the UAE is a large city, finding parking might be difficult. Street parking is metered here and costs roughly Dh25 per hour, although several public car parks provide both short-term and long-term rates. Parking fees range from Dh0.50 to Dh15 per hour, depending on location.

Conclusion

We hope this has addressed your questions and concerns about renting a car in the UAE!

Remember, if you are not familiar with driving in crowded places or are unfamiliar with local road laws, it’s always a good idea to practice before hitting the streets!