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Dubai, along with the wider UAE, can only be explored vibrantly if you rent a car. With well-maintained roads and surprisingly available fuel, a self-drive car rental in Dubai provides unparalleled freedom. However, before you get onto the Sheikh Zayed Road, a meticulous check of the rules, paperwork, and probable fees is important to ensure a seamless trip.
This Tourist Guide to Car Rental in Dubai offers an easy, three-part Checklist Before Renting a Car in Dubai, covering documents, hidden Car Rental Costs in Dubai, and important driving regulations. Green Motion Car Rental guides you before you rent a car from them.
1. The Important Paperwork Checklist
You must get your paperwork in order first, as it is the most crucial step. Rental desks in Dubai are strict on legal requirements, especially for tourists like you. Green Motion Car Rental helps you in the process.
For Travellers and Visitors Like You :
- Appropriate Passport and Copy of Visa: Your original passport and a copy of your valid UAE entry stamp or tourist visa are important to prove your legal status.
- Driving License From Your Country of Origin: Your original license must be appropriate and, in most cases, held for at least one year.
- (IDP) Or International Driving Permit: For many nationalities like you, an IDP is legally required and acts as an official translation of your home license. While citizens from some countries, like the USA, UK, and Canada, may use their home licence.
- Credit Card: A credit card in the main driver’s name is non-negotiable for the security deposit. This deposit is blocked (not charged) and released later, covering potential fines or minor damages.
2. Knowledge About the Car Rental Costs in Dubai
The headline rental price is generally not the final cost. To avoid the headache of a massive charge upon return, Green Motion Car Rental clarified all probable add-ons and necessary fees.
Compulsory and Hidden Fees to Clarify:
- The Question of Security Deposit: This refundable amount, usually AED 1,000 to 5,000, is tied up on your credit card. Green Motion Car Rental tells you the exact amount and the time frame for its release, often 15-30 days after return.
- Salik (Toll) Charges: An electronic toll system called Salik is used in Dubai. Every time you go through a Salik gate, a toll currently AED 5 is incurred. Green Motion Car Rental tracks this and charges it to your bill, generally with an additional small administrative fee per crossing or a daily flat charge. They inform you of the exact admin fee charged per toll.
- (VAT) Or Value Added Tax: The advertised cost might leave the standard 5% VAT, which will be added to your total bill.
- Insurance Deductible/Excess: Green Motion Car Rental includes basic Third-Party Liability. However, TPL and basic (CDW or Collision Damage Waiver often come with a high deductible, the excess amount paid at the time of the accident. They give you the exact excess amount.
3. Self-Drive Car Rental Rules Dubai & Inspection Checklist
The liberty of a self-drive car rental in Dubai comes with the liability of sticking to strict local laws and conducting a thorough car inspection.
Necessary Driving and Traffic Rules:
- Limits on Speeds: Limits are heavily enforced by speed cameras. Follow strictly the posted signs, which are generally 60-80 km/h in city areas and up to 120 km/h on major highways.
- Zero Tolerance Policy: The UAE has enforced a zero-tolerance policy for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Use of Mobile: If you use a handheld mobile phone while driving, it is illegal and can lead to a steady fine.
- Fines: Traffic fines in Dubai are high and will be automatically billed to Green Motion Car Rental and subsequently deducted from your security deposit, often with an added admin fee.
Pre-Drive Car Inspection Checklist:
Before you start driving, perform a thorough inspection with the rental agent present:
- Tires and Windows of Rental Car: Look for any cracks in the windshield and excessive wear on the tires.
- Level of Fuel: Inspect that the fuel gauge matches the start level noted on your contract (generally full).
- Functionality: Test the air conditioning, especially in Dubai, as well as the lights and wipers.
- Emergency Kit: Confirm the presence of a first-aid kit and a spare tire or inflation kit.
Conclusion on Checklist Before Renting a Car in Dubai
If you carefully follow this Checklist Before Renting a Car in Dubai, you can make sure your journey through Dubai is safe, legally restrained, and free from uncalled-for financial penalties. Although the car rental market of Dubai is diverse and vast. Choosing the best car rental company that can ideally guide you can be tough. Out of all the companies, Green Motion Car Rental is the best as it helps you to explore the city without much hassle of renting a car in the UAE. They assist you so that you can have a safe and sound journey.
FAQS
1 . Is there a minimum age requirement?
Yes. The minimum age for Green Motion Car Rental is 21 years old for standard cars. For luxury or sports cars, the minimum age is often 25 years old.
2. Do I need a credit card?
Yes, almost always. A credit card in your name is standard for the compulsory, refundable security deposit that covers probable fines, tolls, or damages. Debit cards are sometimes accepted for the rental fee, but rarely for the deposit by Green Motion Car Rental.