The blog provides information on car rental services in Abu Dhabi, including the required documents, procedures, and eligibility criteria for both residents and tourists. It also lists the countries whose driving licenses are accepted in Dubai without an International Driving Permit (IDP).
Among the many things that you could do if you are new to the UAE or just here on a sunny vacation is to rent a vehicle.
If you are living in Abu Dhabi but don’t own a car, then car rental services in Abu Dhabi can be of great help.
On the other hand, even tourists who consider renting cars could do so to come up with their itinerary without missing out on any popular sites.
As long as somebody comes from a certain country, they may sometimes use their driving license, which was issued by their own country, for driving either in their friend’s automobile or while hiring it after a small amount of paperwork has been done.
Visitors from GCC nations and others have some good news because they are not required to get international driving permits (IDP) to drive around the UAE.
In this guide, Sayara guides you through the process of Car hire in Abu Dhabi and across other Emirates.
Where can one rent a car in Abu Dhabi?
There are numerous options for vehicles for hire, with all major international companies being available, especially at airports like Sayara Car Rental.
It is possible to pay daily or weekly fees when taking such vehicles but their value is largely dependent upon the kind of vehicle and its agency. But if you cannot resist hiring a Ferrari, expect to splash out!
What forms must be completed?
Inhabitants should bring their passport copy as well as Emirates ID and UAE driving license;
However, visitors have different requirements including their passports alongside visas issued for tourist purposes together with driving licenses or international driving permits. Moreover, avoid uploading scanned copies online if wishful thinking about this matter persists.
Most often, when people are renting a vehicle, they have to pay all the rent and provide a credit card security deposit (usually from Dh1,000 to Dh4,000) just in case of any traffic fines.
For elite cars, this sum is greater. Thereby, after some days pass, when you hand off the car, it will be checked for any outstanding tickets. That amount will be paid back in the end.
What do you need to hire a car in Abu Dhabi?
Here are some general things that you may need when hiring a car in Abu Dhabi:
Age: Normally 25; however, it can depend on the car rental company and vehicle group.
Driver’s License: If you come to UAE with a visit visa, you cannot apply for a driving license permit. To apply for a driving license, you must have an employment or residence visa. However, during your stay on a visit visa in UAE, you can use an international driving license from your home country.
Passport and Visa: If you’re going as tourist so must be valid otherwise for residents UAE driving license could be asked for.
Credit Card: The primary driver’s major credit card is used to secure rental and cover charges/deposits.
Rental Agreement: Terms and conditions which the client should sign up to.
Insurance: Confirm what insurance coverage is included with rental; consider such covers as CDW or Liability Insurance.
Deposit: Usually needed, charged on a credit card at the time of rental and refunded upon return. Sayara car rental offers a 30 days return policy. You will get your refund within 30 days.
Additional Drivers: Must meet age/license requirements and be listed on the rental agreement
Who are the people who are eligible for an international driving permit (IDP) in Dubai when they want to hire a car?
Accepted Driver's Licenses in Dubai
✔ Austria
✔ Australia
✔ Bahrain
✔ Belgium
✔ Canada (Quebec)
✔ China
✔ Denmark
✔ Finland
✔ France
✔ Germany
✔ Greece
✔ Hungary
✔ Hong Kong
✔ Ireland
✔ Italy
✔ Japan
✔ Kuwait
✔ Latvia
✔ Lithuania
✔ Luxembourg
✔ Netherlands (Holland)
✔ New Zealand
✔ Norway
✔ Oman
✔ Poland
✔ Portugal
✔ Qatar
✔ Romania
✔ Saudi Arabia
✔ Serbia
✔ Singapore
✔ Slovakia
✔ South Africa
✔ South Korea
✔ Spain
✔ Sweden
✔ Switzerland
✔ Turkey
✔ United Kingdom(UK)
✔ United States of America (USA)
If you do not belong to these countries, you need an International Driving Permit (IDP) before driving a car in Dubai.
Apply for this documentation before you leave. This can be organized by your local authorities at home. However, I live in the UAE and have a valid driver’s license. You could approach the following relevant authorities/companies:
✔ Photostat copy of Valid Emirates Driving License
✔ Passport Copy (with Valid Residence Visa for Expatriates)
✔ Two recent photographs
✔ These companies/authorities issue IDPs in Dubai:
✔ Arabian Automobile Association (AAA)
✔ Belhasa Advanced Motorist (BAM)
✔ Belhasa Driving Center (BDC)
✔ Dubai National Air Travel Agency (DNATA)
✔ Emirates Driving Institute (EDI)
✔ Emirates Post Office (EMPOST)
✔ EPPCO-(ENOC-Tasjeel) EPPCO
✔ IMC Middle East Ltd IMC
✔ Orient Travel Services.
✔ Road & Transport Authority [RTA].
In Abu Dhabi, apply at:
✔ Emirates Post Office – EMPOST,
✔ Abu Dhabi Hospitality Company – Duty-Free,
✔ AUH Travel Bureau,
✔ Al Masaood Travels,
✔ Al Masaood Travels – Al Ain Branch
✔ OmeirTravelsAlsa Travel & Tourism LLC.
In Sharjah:
✔ Emirates Post Office,
✔ Marur Typing Center,
✔ Sharjah National Travel & Tours – SNTTA,
✔ Cosmo Travels.
For Fujairah:
✔ Emirates Post Office – EMPOST,
✔ Brothers Tours & Travels,
✔ Fujairah National Driving Institute – FNDI.
Don’t forget your photo ID: either passport or national ID when booking a rental car!
What happens when there is an accident?
It's worth noting that hired cars are insured, so an accident involving a rental vehicle will be treated as any other car crash. Drivers involved will have to do the same things as other road users, like going to a police station or appearing in court if it is severe.
However, the insurance will not cover any damages if the accident involves drunk driving. In such instances, the rental company has the right to recover the costs from the customer. If the motorist were driving a friend's car, they would be liable to pay for all damages and any police fines incurred.
"Drink-driving violates the insurance company's contractual agreement and breaks the law. Consequently, insurance companies do not cover damages resulting from driving," explained Nida Al Masri, a legal consultant from Justitia Advocates and Legal Consultants in Dubai.
Many people misunderstand this point, thinking their insurance companies will pay no matter what caused the accident.
The Best Places To Visit With Your Rental Car
Yas Island
This vibrant spot is ideal for those looking for fun and adventure. There are three major attractions on this island:
✔ Ferrari World: This fantastic theme park revolves around the Ferrari car brand, has speed rides, and has other attractive facilities that give you an adrenaline rush.
✔ Yas Waterworld: A place where water lovers can enjoy various water slides like Yas Waterworld, making this destination perfect for families and friends as they refresh themselves from the summer heat.
✔ Warner Bros. World: The park is dedicated to Warner Bros. movies and characters – it’s a dream come true for all movie fans; therefore, here, one can immerse oneself into different worlds from their favourite films or cartoons.
The Corniche
It is a beautiful and peaceful place with a long promenade along its waterfront; this could make someone relaxed in several ways, such as:
Enjoying scenic views while taking a slow drive.
Quiet walks or picnics by the seaside may be preferred at times.
Taking pictures of the lovely surroundings that surround it.
Al Ain
Also called “garden cityâ€, this location provides calmness away from Abu Dhabi’s busy life. Here are three reasons why Al Ain is famous:
It has lush green gardens with serene atmospheres within them.
It takes only a few minutes’ drive from Abu Dhabi hence offering a change of pace needed once in a while.
Its natural beauty and historical significance have made it ideal for day trips.
All these places are unique in their way, making them worth visiting. These areas have something for everyone; thrill seekers, film buffs and those who love the tranquillity of nature can all find a spot that suits them best. Always consider these factors when planning to visit and when they open to enjoy your journey maximally!
FAQs
Q: Do you need an international driver's license?
A: It is not compulsory for residents but recommended for travellers to have their home country's driver's license and passport.
Q: Any extra charges?
A: Additional fees could include taxes, insurance, fuel charges, and extra driver fees. Ensure that you have asked about these before you book.
Q: Can you drive outside Abu Dhabi?
A: Yes, you can ,rental companies allow traveling throughout the UAE.
Q: Are there any restrictions on where you can drive?
A: Some companies do not allow driving on non-paved roads. Check with your rental company first.
Q: What payment methods are accepted?
A: Most major credit cards would suffice. Just confirm with the company itself, though.
Q: How do you extend your rental?
A: Before your initial agreement ends, contact the renting service provider and discuss extending the rental.
Q: Any age restrictions?
Yes, most companies have an age limit. Usually, 20to 25-year-old and younger drivers may pay extra fees.
Q: What's the minimum rental period?
Usually, it is 24 hours, but there can be exceptions.
Q: Are there any additional payments?
Yes, taxes, insurance rates, fuel charges, and additional driver charges might be included. Call the rental company and confirm.
Q: Can you return a car to another place?
Some firms offer non-way rentals but typically charge a fee. Ask about this at the car hire counter.