Planning a trip and wondering whether you can just rent a car and drive? You can — Dubai is one of the easiest cities in the world for visitors to get behind the wheel. Here is how.
Can tourists rent a car in Dubai?
Yes. Tourists rent cars in Dubai every day. You need a valid driving licence, your passport, and your visa or entry stamp. Depending on your nationality you may also need an International Driving Permit alongside your home licence.
Which licence do tourists need?
Visitors from GCC countries and many Western nations can drive on their national licence for a short stay; others need an International Driving Permit. We break down exactly who needs what in our guide to driving on a tourist or international licence.
Rent without the airport queue
Skip the rental desk entirely. Tell us your dates on WhatsApp and we deliver the car to your hotel or straight to Dubai Airport (DXB) — free, with a full tank, no deposit.
Best cars for visitors
For the city and the malls, an economy car or sedan is easy and cheap to park. Planning desert trips or the drive to the east coast? A SUV is the comfortable choice.
Two things every tourist should know
Roads use Salik tolls (AED 4 a gate, billed automatically), and any traffic fine is the driver’s responsibility. Drive within the limit and enjoy the trip.
