Important guide for UK Travellers: Hiring Vehicles

The rental vehicle demand remains the same despite the COVID-19 pandemic in countries like the UAE. Not only travellers from places such as London, but Dubai residents also love to try new car models. So most of the time, they choose to test the model before buying it.

No matter, if you are in Dubai as a tourist or for work purposes, renting a car, is always a good idea. Relying on public transport is quite a pain and it takes a lot of time. With your own conveyance, you can travel around with ease. Also, the roads of Dubai are built for safe and sound driving.

Renting a vehicle is not a daunting process, but it will be a little challenging if you are travelling for the first time. But, if you do your complete homework before travelling, it will save you from a lot of trouble and money loss. To explore Dubai in a high-end auto, make sure to follow this guide before you rent a car in Dubai.

Let’s discuss all the important things you need to follow before hiring a car in Dubai.

Why do you need to hire a car in Dubai?

Most of the tourists wonder why they need to rent a car instead of using a taxi or public transport. The answer is pretty simple. The public transport system of Dubai (including trains and buses) is good enough but they do not cover most of the areas. Also, you have to follow a strict schedule for public transport.

The most crucial thing to notice here is that you need to recharge your travel card. And, if you are travelling to different places on a single day, it may cost you even more than a one-day car rental fee. If we talk about taxis, the fee will be much higher than your own car. So, we always recommend you hire your vehicle.

How to find the best car rental company?

It is always the best idea to book a vehicle before your trip starts especially if you are travelling in December or January. To find the best rental companies, you can use the internet. Search different companies and compare their rates to find the best and most affordable vehicle according to your budget.

Also, make sure to check every detail of the car rental company. The rental companies in Dubai are quite competitive so there is a possibility to find the best and cheapest wheels. You can also compare rates on aggregation websites like Kayak, etc. Just don’t rely on 1 platform and keep comparing them until you find the best deals.

Checking the reputation of car Rental Company

Just don’t book a car from any random company. Always make sure to check the reviews of the rental companies. Many of you might know that you have to deposit the security (deposit fee) as well. Don’t worry that the fee is completely refundable when you return a car. But, it is always good to double-check the company background.

Mostly the companies pay back your deposit fee in 2-3 weeks. It takes time to make sure that the vehicle does not have any type of fine or penalties. When the car comes clean, the security fee is deposited back into your bank account. You can also ask the company how much time they require to refund your deposit fee.

You need to know about hire car in UAE

Before hiring a car you need to consider some important things are these are as follows:

Hire an auto according to your group size. Like if you are travelling in a group, it is the best idea to book a minibus. For the family, a sedan or SUV will serve you best. But, if you are in Dubai for business, or as a solo traveller, you should look for a luxurious car.

Hire the vehicle according to your budget. You have different options to choose from economical to luxurious cars so choose wisely.

Make sure to check the vehicle interior and exterior, or make a close video to avoid troubles while returning.

Try to learn everything about Salik and traffic fines. The whole system is based on RFID technology and a fee is charged when the auto passes the toll gate.

Try to book a hotel as well so you have an idea of your destinations. Also, book a hotel that provides parking space so you don’t have to walk around much just to park your wheels and reach the hotel afterwards.

You must be 21 years old to book a vehicle in Dubai. But, if you want to hire a luxury vehicle, then you must be 25 years old as these autos are more expensive.

Make sure to bring the security deposit if you are booking an automobile in person as you have to pay it in advance.

Keep in mind that you have to pay more if you need more facilities like advanced navigation systems, chauffeur, etc.

The last and the most important thing, book an automobile according to your stay duration. It is because if you return the vehicle late, you may end up paying extra cash as a fine. If you are staying for weeks, make sure to look for a monthly rent a car You can also book it on a daily or weekly basis.

What are the required documents for renting a car?

Car rental agencies may ask for some documents before they hand over a vehicle to you. For Dubai residents, an Emirates driving license is enough. But, if you are a foreigner and travelling to Dubai as a tourist or worker, then you need additional documents that are as follows:

Your passport copy

International driving license (for non-GCC nationals)

Auto insurance details

Your credit card

ID card copy

Income and residence proof

Car rental process

Now, you almost know everything you need to rent a vehicle in Dubai. The next process is to finally rent a car. The 2 methods are to book a car online or in person. We recommend you book a wheel online before your trip as it will save you a lot of trouble later.

To book online, just find the best company by visiting their company. The best companies are Dollar, Thrifty, RentalCarsUAE, etc. So, you can choose any of them. Check the charges and deposit fee of your favourite car. Also, select the period like for how long you want to book the car. Scan and submit your documents and pay online and you are ready to go.

We recommend you choose RentalCarsUAE, as they offer affordable services. Besides, many companies charge a car pick-up and drop-off fee, but this company doesn’t charge anything for this service.

What are the accident and breakdown policies?

UAE police will be informed in the case of accidents especially if you are driving a rental car. Contact your agency so that they can take care of this matter. Follow the complete procedure even if you are not at fault to avoid damage charges.

Things to avoid while hiring an automobile in Dubai?

You need to avoid certain things while renting a vehicle in Dubai and these are as follows:

Always avoid airport rentals at any cost. Although they are available everywhere. But, it is very costly and they don't offer any deals either.

Always return your automobile on time or before the expiration date. If you fail to do so, you may end up paying extra charges.

Just don’t get too excited and take the wheels right away. Check the vehicle with patience from the inside out.

Don’t ever think of driving a vehicle outside the UAE. If you want to do so ask for permission from the agency and relevant authorities.

Keep in mind that vehicle damage is something that companies take very seriously. So, use your wheels with care.

If the rental company is offering insurance policies, make sure to ask what things are included in your insurance.

Don’t ever try to pay the insurance in cash. Instead, use your credit card as many banks offer insurance policies on credit cards.

Always make sure to return the automobile with the same amount of fuel it has while renting. Else the company will deduct it from your deposit fee.

We have discussed everything you need to know before renting a car. Make sure to follow each and everything to avoid trouble and enjoy a safe Dubai trip. Also, if you are going to Dubai for work, you should go for a car lease option instead of hiring one as it will be more convenient for you.

Why Renting a Car in London Is a Good IdeaRenting a car in London isn't difficult. After all, there are a lot of rental companies now, so you will definitely be able to choose the right one for you.