Dubai is known for its luxury, opulence and over-the-top attractions. The city offers visitors a chance to experience a slice of Arab grandeur. One of the best ways to get around this glitzy emirate and soak in its attractions is by renting a car.
With a wide network of multi-lane highways and a world-class infrastructure, driving in Dubai is a breeze. Renting a set of wheels gives you the freedom and flexibility to explore the city at your own pace. Whether you want to cruise along the pristine beaches or drive through the rolling sand dunes of the desert, having your own car rental in Dubai unravels plenty of possibilities.
Here’s a complete guide to renting a car in Dubai and making the most of your experience:
Choosing a Rental Company
With tons of car rental providers dotting the city, choosing the right one can seem like a daunting task. While the international players like Hertz, Avis and Budget have a strong presence, the wise option is to go with a reputed local rental agency.
Rent It Online emerges a clear winner in this segment. Being a homegrown rental company, they have a better understanding of the local market. Their fleet includes a diverse mix of models to suit different tastes and budgets. From no-frills economy cars to swanky Mercedes, Rent It Online has you covered.
With a strong focus on customer service, they offer complete transparency in billing and no hidden charges. Their online booking process is seamless and you can conveniently rent a car with driver too.
Booking Your Rental Car
Once you’ve zeroed in on a rental provider, next step is to book your wheels. Here are some aspects to keep in mind:
- Pickup and drop off locations: Choose a location that’s most convenient for you. Rent It Online has branches spread across Dubai’s main neighbourhoods.
- Car model: Select a model that aligns with your requirement, group size and budget.
- Add-ons: Include add-ons like GPS navigation device, child safety seat, Wi-Fi hotspot etc to enhance your rental experience.
- Payment mode: Opt for prepaid booking for the best rates. Rent It Online offers discounted prices for prepaid bookings.
- Driver rental: Hire a rental car with driver if you are unfamiliar with driving in Dubai. Professional and courteous drivers can be pre-booked along with your rental car on Rent It Online.
Insurance Requirements
When renting a car in Dubai, insurance coverage is mandatory. Here are the main insurance policies to look for:
- Third Party Liability: Provides coverage for injury or damage caused to a third party. This is a basic legal requirement.
- Collision Damage Waiver (CDW): Covers damage caused to the rental vehicle. Reduces your financial liability in case of accidents.
- Theft protection: Safeguards the rental car against theft or attempted theft.
- Personal accident cover: Provides coverage for medical expenses arising due to an accident.
Rent It Online automatically includes basic third party coverage with their rentals. You can further enhance your coverage by opting for bundled insurance plans like Premium Protection.
Picking up Your Rental
On the day of pickup, arrive punctually at the rental agency. Keep your booking confirmation voucher, passport, driving license and credit card handy. These documents will be needed during the time of pickup.
The rental agent will provide a checklist to inspect the car’s exteriors and interiors. Look for any pre-existing damages and get them noted down before signing the agreement. Review the rental terms, fill the fuel tank and you’re all set!
Driving in Dubai
Dubai has an extensive network of multi-lane roads and highways. Lane discipline is followed and most drivers adhere to speed limits. Here are some key aspects of driving in Dubai:
- Traffic moves on the right-hand side of the road.
- Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers. Child seats are compulsory for kids under 4 years.
- Avoid using cell phones while driving unless it’s hands-free.
- At intersections, turning right is permitted after coming to a complete halt and checking for oncoming traffic.
- Jaywalking is illegal. Pedestrians should use crosswalks and subways.
- Drunk driving can attract heavy fines or imprisonment. Strictly avoid it.
- Radar cameras monitor speeding on major highways like Sheikh Zayed Road and Al Khail Road. Stick to the speed limit.
- Returning Your Rental
Ensure you return the car on time to avoid any extra charges. Refill the fuel tank before returning. The interior should be clean and free of trash. No toll tags like Salik or NOL card should be left behind.
Report any new damages that may have occurred during the rental period. Rent It Online's staff will inspect the car and sign off the checklist. Finally, settle any outstanding rental fees to complete the process.
Renting a car is the best way to cruise around Dubai in comfort and style. Follow this guide and enjoy an unforgettable driving experience in one of the world’s most thrilling cities! With its excellent service and wide range of rental cars, Rent It Online emerges as the top choice for car rentals in Dubai.