A valid passport, along with the appropriate visa or entry stamp, is an absolute requirement for any rental. This documentation must be valid for the entire duration of the rental period. Crucially, the passport must have more than six months of validity remaining from the date of rental, without exception.
Regarding your driver’s license, tourists from the USA, EU, Canada, Great Britain, and GCC countries are permitted to drive using their original, valid national driver’s license. Visitors from all other countries are required to obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) and must present it alongside their original national license.
There are also important age and experience restrictions. The minimum age to rent a car is typically 21 years. However, to rent a supercar, the minimum age is most often 25. Furthermore, all drivers must be able to show a minimum driving experience that usually ranges from six to twelve months.
Deposit, Insurance and Hidden Costs
Deposit: Usually blocked on a credit card — from AED 5,000 to AED 10,000 (sometimes up to 20,000)
Insurance: Basic insurance is included, but it is recommended to take Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or extended coverage — especially when renting expensive cars.
Additional costs: Consider mileage restrictions (usually 100-250 km per day with additional charges for extra kilometers), charges for an incomplete tank, Salik fare, fines, VAT (5%) and service fees
Tips from Real Tenants
Record the car upon receipt: Taking photos of all the details — the body, interior, mileage — will help avoid false claims.
Careful with the deposit: There have been cases when tourists have not been refunded their deposit. It is better to work with trusted companies and always pay with a credit card.
Results
Renting a car in Dubaiwith a temporary visa is a reality, but it requires preparation. We need: valid documents, age compliance, financial readiness and attentiveness to the terms of the contract and insurance. If all the rules are followed, you can get a vivid and safe driving experience without unpleasant surprises.
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