Renting a car is one of the easiest ways to travel around Dubai. The roads are wide, the signage is clear, and having your own vehicle gives you the freedom to move at your own pace.
However, before you start driving, you need to complete some paperwork. Rental agencies in the UAE follow strict rules regarding identification and licensing.
Having the correct documents ready ensures the process is fast and smooth. If you miss a document the rental agency cannot legally hand over the car keys.
Here is a guide that explains exactly what you need to prepare so you can drive away without any problems.
What Are The Documents for Tourists/Visitors?
If you are visiting Dubai on a holiday or business trip, the rules are slightly different than they are for residents. You cannot use a UAE driving license, so you must rely on documents from your home country.
To rent a car as a tourist, you generally need the following:
- Original Passport: The agency will need your passport to verify your identity. They usually take a copy.
- Valid Visit Visa: You must show proof that you are legally visiting the country. This is usually stamped in your passport or provided as a digital document.
- Home Country Driving License: You need a valid driving license from the country you live in. The license must be original; copies are rarely accepted.
- International Driving Permit (IDP): In many cases, your home license is not enough. You will also need an International Driving Permit. This document translates your license into multiple languages and is recognized globally.
Important Note: Visitors from certain countries, such as Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations, the US, UK, Canada, and many European countries, might not need an IDP. They can often rent a car using just their home country license. However, it is always safer to check with the rental agency in advance.
What Are The Documents Required for UAE Residents?
If you live in Dubai and have a residence visa, the requirements change. You can no longer use your home country’s license or an International Driving Permit. Once you are a resident, you must drive using a UAE license.
Residents need to submit these documents:
- Emirates ID: This is your primary identification card in the UAE. It proves your residency status.
- UAE Driving License: You must have a valid driving license issued by the UAE authorities (RTA).
- Passport Copy: While the Emirates ID is the main document, some agencies may still ask for a passport copy on the residence visa page.
If your UAE license is being processed, you generally cannot rent a car. You must wait until you have the physical license or the official digital version approved by the authorities.
What Are The Age and License Rules?
It is very important to have the right papers, but you must also meet certain age and experience requirements in order to qualify.
- Minimum Age: The legal driving age in Dubai is 18. However, to rent a car, most agencies require you to be at least 21 years old. For luxury or sports cars, the age limit is often higher, sometimes 25 or above.
- License Age: Your driving license usually needs to be at least six months old. If you have just received your license last week, many major rental companies may not rent a car for you due to insurance policy.
Always check the specific terms of the rental company, as these rules can vary slightly between agencies.
Quick Checklist Need To Check
Make sure that your wallet are in order before you proceed to the rental counter. Having even one item missing can cause your plans to be delayed.
For Tourists:
- Passport
- Visit Visa
- Home Country Driving License
- International Driving Permit (if required)
- Credit Card (for the security deposit)
For Residents:
- Emirates ID
- UAE Driving License
- Passport with Residence Visa (as backup)
- Credit Card (for the security deposit)
By preparing these items in advance, you ensure a hassle-free experience. Once the paperwork is verified, you are free to explore the city.
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Our authors is a Dubai-based car rental professional with extensive expertise in luxury, economy, and long-term vehicle rentals. Backed by years of industry experience, they provide accurate, transparent, and up-to-date information. Every article is created to offer trustworthy guidance, clear rental policies, and reliable travel advice.
