Renting a Car in Dubai as a Tourist: 10 Things to Know (2026)

Renting a car is one of the best ways to see Dubai. Taxis add up quickly, the metro does not reach the beaches or the desert, and the city’s roads are among the best in the world. But for first-time visitors, the rules can be confusing. Which licence do you need? What are Salik tolls? Why is the deposit so high?

This guide answers the questions tourists ask most, so you can book with confidence and avoid surprise charges after you fly home.

1. Check your driving licence before you travel

Visitors from many countries can drive in Dubai on their home licence. This includes the UK, the US, Canada, Australia, most EU countries, the GCC states, Japan and South Korea. Visitors from other countries need an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside their licence.

Even if your country is on the list, bring an IDP if you can. Many rental companies ask for one as standard, and it costs little to get at home. You will also need your passport and the visit visa or entry stamp you received on arrival.

2. Know the age rules

The usual minimum age to rent a car in Dubai is 21. For supercars and high-end luxury models, such as Lamborghini, Ferrari, McLaren and Rolls-Royce, most companies require drivers to be at least 25. Some also ask that you have held your licence for at least a year.

3. Watch out for the security deposit

The deposit is the biggest surprise for many tourists. Rental companies in Dubai often block a large amount on your credit card and hold it for up to a month after you return the car. This covers traffic fines and tolls, which can take weeks to appear. For a supercar, the hold can run into thousands of dirhams.

You can avoid this by choosing a luxury car rental Dubai company that does not take a deposit at all. First Super Car Rental, for example, offers no-deposit rentals on its whole fleet of more than 100 cars. It accepts tourist documents and delivers to hotels and the airport, usually within 30 minutes. Before you book anywhere, ask three questions: is there a deposit, how much is it, and when will it be released?

4. Understand what the insurance covers

Standard rentals usually include basic insurance, but this does not mean you pay nothing if the car is damaged. Ask about the excess, which is the amount you pay before the insurance takes over. A collision damage waiver (CDW) costs extra per day but reduces or removes that excess. On an expensive car, it is usually worth it.

5. Salik tolls are charged automatically

Dubai has no toll booths. Instead, Salik gates on major roads, including Sheikh Zayed Road and the creek crossings, read a tag on the car each time you pass. As of 2026, each crossing costs AED 6 at peak times (6 to 10 am and 4 to 8 pm, Monday to Saturday), AED 4 at other times, and nothing between 1 am and 6 am.

The rental company pays the tolls and adds them to your final bill. Some add a small admin fee per crossing, so ask how they charge before you sign.

6. Budget for fuel and mileage

Fuel is cheaper than in Europe, but supercars use a lot of it and need premium petrol. In October 2026, Super 98 costs AED 4.40 per litre. Most rentals are “same-to-same”, so you return the car with the same fuel level you received it with.

Most daily rentals also include a mileage allowance, typically 250 km a day. Beyond that, you pay per extra kilometre, which can be expensive on a supercar. If you are planning a long drive, such as a trip to Abu Dhabi, check the limit first.

7. Speed cameras are everywhere

Dubai’s roads are monitored by cameras on almost every highway and junction. Speed limits are clearly posted and strictly enforced, and fines are passed on to the renter, often with an admin fee. Avoid using your phone while driving, always wear a seatbelt, and keep a safe distance: tailgating is also fined. The UAE has zero tolerance for drink-driving.

8. Parking is easy, but not always free

Most malls and hotels have large car parks, and many hotels offer valet parking. On the street, paid parking zones are clearly signed. You can pay by app or SMS, so download the official parking app before you arrive. Never park in loading bays or on yellow-and-black kerbs.

9. Know what to do if you have an accident

If there are injuries, call 999 immediately. For a minor accident with no injuries, move the car safely to the side of the road and report it through the Dubai Police app. Always get a police report: without it, the insurance will not pay for the damage. Then call your rental company.

10. Inspect the car at handover

When the car arrives, walk around it with the delivery driver and record a short video of the bodywork, wheels and interior. Photograph the fuel gauge and the mileage. This takes two minutes and protects you from disputes when you return the car.

Choosing the right car for your trip

Once the practical side is sorted, choose a car that suits your plans. A convertible is ideal for the coast in winter, and a luxury SUV works best for families and desert roads. For the full Dubai experience, many visitors pick a Lamborghini: the Urus offers five seats and comfort, while the Huracán Spyder is made for open-top drives. If that is on your list, browse the models when you rent Lamborghini Dubai-style, and book early for December and January, when demand is highest.

Final checklist

•         Passport, visa, home licence and an IDP
•         Driver aged 25 or over for a supercar
•         Deposit amount and release date confirmed in writing
•         Insurance excess and CDW option understood
•         Salik, fuel and mileage rules checked
•         Handover video recorded

With these points covered, renting a car in Dubai is simple, and it gives you the freedom to see far more of the city than a taxi ever could.

Sarah Mitchell

Sarah Mitchell is passionate about discovering the best attractions and experiences across the United Arab Emirates. She writes about iconic landmarks, family-friendly destinations, beaches, museums, shopping districts, outdoor adventures, and hidden gems throughout the country. Her recommendations inspire readers to experience both world-famous attractions and authentic local experiences across every emirate.