How to find a cheap car hire deal in Dubai
Travel at your own pace with a cheap rental car in Dubai. With prices averaging $184 a day, it's an easy win for your budget and your plans. From small cars to full-size models, we'll match you with the right wheels at a price that works.
Daily rental prices in Dubai start from just $24.
Planning a longer trip and want to explore beyond the usual highlights? $115 is the lowest rate for a weekly rental.
We've cracked the code on when to book. Three weeks in advance is when you're most likely to find the best price on a Dubai car hire.
AMEX, Autostrad Rent A Car and Quicklease Car Hire are some of the best-known providers in the city. They're a smart place to start comparing offers.
Always check if a collision damage waiver (CDW) is part of your Dubai car hire policy, whether you go with AMEX or another supplier. Some companies might not include it in the base price and instead sell it separately.
Booking one-way could score you a discount on your rental. Providers sometimes offer lower prices when vehicles need to be moved between sites. Simply click 'Return car to a different location' when searching the range of cars for rent in Dubai.
Avoid any unexpected fees by choosing a vehicle with a 'Fair fuel policy.' Start your journey with a full tank and return it the same, and only pay for what you actually use.
Want to explore without worrying about the number of miles you clock up? Find rentals with 'Unlimited mileage' under the 'Policies' filter and drive as far as you like without the extra charges.
Best value car hire options right now
You'll find the best deal with this company. Prices average $98 a day.
Coming in next, this provider offers daily rates of around $53.
The third option won't cost a fortune either. You'll pay roughly $63 a day with this supplier.
After a car that's a safe bet for most journeys? The Intermediate rental category is the top choice for travellers visiting Dubai.
Flying to Dubai? Think about an airport pick-up
Start your Dubai trip sooner by booking a car hire at Dubai Airport. The city centre is about 14 kilometres from this airport, which is a drive of around 20 minutes.
Or grab the keys and make a speedy getaway with a car hire from Dubai Al Maktoum International Airport. It'll take roughly 40 minutes to drive the 48 kilometres or so to the centre.
Compare car hire types in Dubai
Small: These cheap rental cars in Dubai may be small in size, but they're big where it counts. Including mini and economy vehicles, they're agile, great on mileage, and a match made in heaven for city driving.
Medium: Not too big, not too small, this is the just-right ride you need in your life. Typically including compact and intermediate cars, they offer a mix of fuel efficiency and interior space and are great for couples and small families.
Large: You've got the bags, the kids, the snacks, the everything. Large vehicles have got the space to handle it all effortlessly. Ideal for long-distance journeys, this Dubai car hire category includes full-size cars.
SUV: When wanderlust strikes, an SUV goes wherever you do. It's your ultimate road trip companion, ready for highways, backroads, and anything in between. These sports utility vehicles also offer extra space and advanced safety features.
Van: Go for this vehicle category when you need a car for rent in Dubai that can handle the big jobs. Typically featuring commercial vans and trucks, they're built to carry more, whether that's equipment, luggage or large groups.
Insurance and optional extras
Excess insurance covers the cost you'd have to pay if your Dubai car hire is stolen or damaged. While not compulsory, you'll be glad to have it if something goes wrong. Just remember that policies differ from one provider to another, so make sure you understand exactly what's offered.
Travel smarter when you rent a car in Dubai by adding a few handy extras. Think things like a GPS unit to make sure you never miss a turn, or reverse cameras to park like you're pulling off a choreographed routine.
Good to know
Rental age requirements aren't always the same everywhere. Providers can set their own policies, and if you're a younger driver, you could encounter extra costs or restrictions. Check the specific rules for each supplier before booking your car hire in the United Arab Emirates.
If you're travelling with kids, check if you should add a car seat to your Dubai car hire reservation. Whether local laws require them or not, they're always the safest way for youngsters to travel.
Make sure you have the necessary documents when you pick up your ride. As a general rule, bring a valid driver's licence, a credit card with enough balance for the excess (debit cards usually aren't accepted), and another form of photo ID. Your booking confirmation will spell it all out.
Take your time getting acquainted with your rental. Adjust your seat and mirrors, test the brakes and blinkers, and get a feel for its handling before you drive away. And importantly, stick to the right side of the road in the United Arab Emirates.
Local speed limits may vary, but it's usually around 55kph in built-up areas and 125kph or so on highways. Always obey the road signs.
Avoid getting behind the wheel if you'll be consuming alcohol. The United Arab Emirates has a zero-tolerance approach to drinking and driving, and penalties may apply.
One of the busiest times to be out on the roads in this destination is around 8am. Make driving smoother by avoiding rush hours in general.
You'll be using the United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED) for everyday expenses here. You may find it useful to carry a mix of cards and cash for more flexibility when paying.
The language most commonly used in this country is Arabic.
Best hotels in Dubai for drivers
Offering parking, La Ville Hotel & Suites City Walk, Dubai, Autograph Collection gives you the freedom to come and go as you please. This hotel is about 8 kilometres from central Dubai and also comes with room service and a garden.
Renaissance Business Bay Hotel, Dubai keeps guests happy with parking and features like a spa and massage services. It's roughly 10 kilometres from the city centre.
Explore the full range of hotels in Dubai and pick the stay that matches your trip. Filters make it easy to tailor your search to your needs — like 'Parking,' 'Outdoor parking,' or 'Valet parking.' There's even an 'Electric vehicle (EV) charging station' filter to find hotels with charging access.
After you've found a car hire deal in Dubai and the right hotel, it's time to plan where to go first. Burj Khalifa, Burj Khalifa Viewpoint and The Dubai Mall are a memorable introduction to what the city has to offer.
Hit the road: Where to drive to from Dubai
Around 26 kilometres east of central Dubai, Sharjah belongs on your itinerary. Steer straight toward must-see sights like Cultural Palace and Sharjah safari.
They've perfected the guest experience at Centro Sharjah and Sharjah International Airport Hotel, two accommodation options with parking in Sharjah.
Alternatively, collect your cheap car hire in Dubai and drive around 56 kilometres east to Adh Dhayd. Featuring Heritage Fort and Ammar Bin Yasir Mosque, its highlights live up to the buzz.
Ready to go the extra mile? Khawr Fakkān is a popular road trip destination that's around 105 kilometres east of Dubai. Make a few pit stops at Hisn Khorfakkan and Khorfakkan Public Beach.
The only thing calling your name now is a bed. Oceanic Khorfakkan Resort & Spa and Najd Al Meqsar, By Sharjah Collection - Adults Only have room for both you and your wheels while visiting Khawr Fakkān.
