How to find a cheap car hire deal in Dubai (DXB)
Whether you need a compact for zipping through the city streets or an SUV for a road trip, we'll help you find a cheap Dubai rental car. Choose from options averaging $323 a day and get on the road for less.
Daily rental prices at Dubai start from just $16.
Staying on in Dubai for a while? Book a weekly rental from $106 and make room for more adventures.
To get the cheapest price, book your DXB car hire around three weeks in advance.
Get behind the wheel with AMEX, Autostrad Rent A Car or Quicklease Car Hire, some of the most well-known providers at Dubai.
The coverage AMEX or another supplier includes with your Dubai car hire can vary, so always check the fine print. While some include a collision damage waiver (CDW), others will provide it for an extra charge.
Booking one-way could snag you a bargain on your car hire. Providers sometimes offer lower prices when vehicles need to be moved between sites. Just select 'Return car to a different location' when searching for a car for hire in DXB.
Spend less on fuel by choosing a car hire in Dubai that offers a 'Fair fuel policy.' You pick up your vehicle with a full tank and bring it back full, so you're only paying for what you use.
Go wherever the road takes you by picking a rental with 'Unlimited mileage.' Located under the 'Policies' filter, these rides let you go as far as you like with no extra cost.
Best value car hire options right now
Coming out on top for value is this company, with prices averaging $62 a day.
Next in line is this provider, offering daily rates of around $125.
The third option also performs well on price. Drive off in one of their rentals for roughly $115 a day.
The Large rental category is a dependable choice if you can't decide what kind of ride you need. It's also the car type that's booked more than any other at DXB.
Compare car hire types from Dubai (DXB)
Small: Including classes like mini and economy, this cheap Dubai rental car is all about getting you on the road for less. These zippy, fuel-efficient cars are excellent for city driving and short trips.
Medium: Not too big, not too small, this is the kind of rental even Goldilocks wouldn't second-guess. Typically including compact and intermediate cars, they strike a balance of fuel efficiency and interior space and are popular with small families and couples.
Large: Long drives are effortless in this DXB car hire category. Also known as full-size, they're built with bigger engines for better driving. The extra space and comfort make them a great option for families and groups of friends.
SUV: Get a higher ground clearance and a better view of what's ahead in an SUV. Whether you're navigating rugged backcountry or cruising along uninterrupted highways, many offer all-wheel drive to help you take on any road.
Van: If you need a car for rent in Dubai that fits a small crowd (and their suitcases), a van will do the job. Including commercial vans and trucks, they're a solid pick for group excursions, moving or business needs.
Insurance and optional extras
Car rental excess insurance isn't mandatory, but it's worth considering. If you're in an accident, no matter how minor, it can help you avoid paying a hefty excess fee. Different DXB car hire providers have varying insurance policies and coverage levels, so check the details before booking.
Make your trip smoother 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 that make parking feel effortless.
Good to know
Check each supplier's age requirements before booking your car rental in the United Arab Emirates. Rules can vary, and some restrictions or fees may apply if you're a younger driver. At the start of your search, uncheck the 'Driver aged between 25–70' filter and enter your age to browse your options.
If the kids are coming with you, check if you need to add a child car seat to your DXB car rental booking. Whether required by local laws or not, they're always the safest way for little ones to ride.
Bring the right documents and keep pick-up quick and easy. You'll typically need your physical driver's licence (no screenshots) plus another photo ID. Also bring a credit card that can cover the deposit. If anything extra is required, you'll find it in your booking.
Driving in the United Arab Emirates can seem unfamiliar if it's your first time. Don't forget all vehicles travel on the right side of the road.
Stay within local speed limits of about 55kph in built-up areas and around 125kph on highways. Always check the posted signs, as limits may vary.
Skip driving altogether if your plans involve alcohol. The United Arab Emirates takes a zero-tolerance approach to drinking and driving, and fines may apply if you break the rules.
You'll be using the United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED) for all your purchases and expenses throughout your trip. You may find it helpful to carry a mix of cash and cards so you always have a backup option.
Drive smarter from the start
Once you've grabbed the keys to your DXB car hire, it's time to map out your journey. Central Dubai is about 14 kilometres southwest and a drive of around 20 minutes if that's where your journey begins.
Driving from Dubai to the centre in peak travel times can take as long as 40 minutes.
Try to travel outside high-traffic periods for a smoother run. 8am is one of the busiest times to be on the road in this destination.
If you don't need a set of wheels as soon as you land, consider picking up a car hire in Dubai instead of at the airport. Simply collect your ride when it works for you and avoid paying for unused rental days.
Car hire is also available at other airports around Dubai. For even more variety, compare the car hire options at Dubai Al Maktoum International.
Hit the road: Where to drive from Dubai (DXB)
Begin with some of the leading attractions in Dubai, like Burj Khalifa and Dubai Opera. Whether you drive your rental or get there another way, you'll want to check out these highlights before leaving town.
Around 14 kilometres northeast of DXB, Sharjah should feature on your itinerary. Head to must-see sights like Rain Room and Al Noor Mosque.
Alternatively, jump into your Dubai car hire and drive about 56 kilometres east to Adh Dhayd. Featuring Heritage Fort and Al Dhaid Fort, its attractions are worth the drive.
There's plenty of road left if you're up for more. Set out for Khawr Fakkān, around 105 kilometres east of DXB. From Hisn Khorfakkan to Khorfakkan Public Beach, it'll round out your trip nicely.
