Renting a car in Dubai is one of the most enjoyable and cost-effective ways to get around and see the city. From cruising down Sheikh Zayed Road to off-roading through the desert, the possibilities are endless. However, despite the ease of booking, there are several mistakes you can make when renting a car in Dubai, resulting in unnecessary costs, confusion, and even legal trouble.
With that in mind, here are the top 10 mistakes you need to avoid when renting a car in Dubai:
#1 Not Understanding Local Driving Laws
Dubai has one of the most advanced road infrastructures in the world, but the rules are strict, and there is no leniency for ignorance of the law. Whether you’re a visitor or a resident, not knowing the rules can lead to fines and license points, so do your research and read the regulations.
There are some basic rules to keep in mind:
Zero tolerance of drinking and driving
Seatbelts for all passengers
No phone use without a hands-free kit
Respect for lanes and speed limits
Take a few minutes to read up on UAE driving regulations before picking up your rental car.
#2 Ignoring Insurance
All car rentals come with basic insurance, but many renters assume they’re covered for everything and opt out of add-ons without reading the fine print. This can prove costly if you’re involved in an accident or your car gets damaged.
When it comes to insurance, make sure to consider:
Limits your liability for damage to the car
Covers the value of the car if it is stolen
Covers medical expenses if you’re involved in an accident
If your credit card includes rental insurance, check to see if it covers the UAE and what it covers.
#3 Not Checking the Car Before Driving Off
Many renters make the mistake of not checking the car before driving off and later have to deal with dings, scratches, or hidden problems. Take a few minutes to look the car over inside and out and snap some photos or videos of any pre-existing issues.
Make sure to look at:
Tyres
Fuel level
Lights and wipers
Dashboard warning lights
Report any issues to the rental company before accepting the keys. That way, you won’t be charged for pre-existing damage when you return the car.
#4 Ignoring the Fuel Policy
Dubai car rentals come with a few different fuel policies. Some require you to return the car with a full tank, while others give you a tank of gas at the beginning and want you to return it empty. You may also have to pay for the gas in advance.
You should always:
Ask about the fuel return policy
Keep the fuel receipt in case of any issues
Refuel at reputable stations to avoid bad gas
Make sure to clarify the policy before you pick up the car. This way, you won’t be charged extra for fuel at drop-off.
#5 Booking the Wrong Car
When booking your car rental, it can be tempting to go for the cheapest or the fanciest option, but this may not be the most practical car for your trip. Dubai’s roads are busy, and desert travel and long journeys can be difficult in a small car.
Consider:
The size of your group and the amount of luggage you have
What terrain you’ll be traveling through (urban, desert, etc.)
How convenient it is to park at your hotel/accommodation
Fuel economy vs. power
Consider what type of car you’ll be most comfortable driving in. This can help you avoid an uncomfortable, overpriced, or limited rental experience.
#6 Not Including Salik and Parking Charges
Dubai has an electronic toll system called Salik, and you are charged automatically when you drive under a Salik gate. These costs will be charged later by the rental company, often with a processing fee.
Parking is typically paid for in the downtown and commercial areas:
Check the app for a quick way to pay
Note the parking zone code
Find out the free parking hours and days (Friday and holidays)
Parking fees can be overlooked but can quickly add up if not accounted for.
#7 Not Having the Right Documents
To rent and drive a car in Dubai, you need to have certain documents. If you don’t bring the correct paperwork, you may be denied the rental or hassled by the police later.
The following are typically required:
Passport and visa copy
Driving license
International Driving Permit (IDP) if needed
Credit card for the security deposit
Always have these documents in the car while driving, especially on long journeys or at night.
#8 Missing out on Discounts by Booking Last Minute
As Dubai is a city of tourists, especially between October and April, there is a high influx of travelers, so last-minute bookings can limit your options and leave you with high rates.
Try to:
Book your rental in advance
Compare prices across websites
Look for deals on long-term rentals (weekly/monthly)
Avoid counter rentals at the airport
Last-minute bookings can leave you with fewer choices and higher rates.
#9 Not Understanding Deposit and Refund Policies
Most car rentals in Dubai will require a security deposit, which is usually placed on your credit card for a few weeks after you return the car to cover potential traffic fines, Salik charges, or damage.
Remember to:
Ask about the deposit amount and currency (AED or home currency)
Understand how long it will take to get your money back (usually 15-30 days)
Ask about hidden charges taken from the deposit
Avoid confusion and surprise charges by understanding deposit policies.
#10 Not Following UAE-Specific Traffic Fines
Dubai’s traffic system is highly advanced, with cameras and radars installed everywhere. If you break a traffic rule, you won’t know about it right away, but the fine will be charged to your rental contract later.
Some of the most common fines include:
Speeding
Lane-changing
Illegal parking
Not paying Salik or parking fees
The fines can be expensive, and your rental provider may charge an admin fee on top of the amount. Be cautious and follow the rules to avoid added costs.
Bonus Tip: Check the Mileage Limit
Some rentals in Dubai have a mileage limit, especially on luxury or short-term rentals. Going over this can result in additional charges per mile.
If you plan to do a lot of driving (to Abu Dhabi or Fujairah, for example), choose a plan with unlimited mileage or check the cost per additional mile.
Conclusion
Dubai is one of the most active and well-connected cities to explore by car, but if you make the wrong decisions when renting a car, you could ruin your experience. From forgetting insurance and not checking the car to ignoring local laws and fines, these are the mistakes that can make your life more difficult.
You can’t control everything, but being well-prepared and proactive is your best line of defense. When booking your rental, be sure to read the fine print, ask the right questions, and pick the car that works for your itinerary and not just your Instagram account. Know the local rules, carry the correct documents, and use navigation tools wisely.
Before driving off, double-check all of the agreements and vehicle details. Whether you’re visiting Dubai for a few days or a few weeks, renting a car can make your trip memorable – as long as you avoid these common mistakes.
By planning properly and avoiding these top 10 mistakes, you can get the most out of your car rental experience and see all of Dubai’s sites, from modern skyscrapers to timeless desert scenery, with ease.
