A Guide to Renting a Car Abroad: Everything You Need to Know, Including How to Do It in the UAE

October 24th, 2024

Driving a rental car

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Travelling abroad allows you to discover new cultures and can shape the way you perceive life. It even gets better if you go to a sophisticated country like the UAE. The impressive thing is that you can start enjoying the goodies in the country right from the moment you arrive–you hop into your rented luxurious car already at the airport arrivals and head to the new adventures.

Obviously, you would want to maximise your stay and make every moment count. Indeed, why would you use public transport with its complicated timetables, crowded bus stops and uncomfortable pickup destinations, when you can just rent a car in Dubai for more private and flexible movement?

However, renting a car abroad can be confusing, with different rules and requirements. This article will enlighten you on the process so you can hit the road with confidence.

  • Prepare Your Documents

There are various documents you need to rent a vehicle in the UAE. These documents are meant to verify your identity and make payment seamless. The most important of them all is your international passport. Also, you need to show that your visa will be valid for the rental period. Showing a visa is crucial, especially if you are renting online in advance before getting into the UAE. 

You also need proof of age, which the renting agencies can get from your identity card. Other necessities are your driver’s license and credit/debit card. 

  • Work with a Reputable Company

Nothing beats the experience of working with a reliable car rental company. So, ensure you work with a company that has a strong online presence and has satisfied many customers.

Nonetheless, renting a car in the UAE is straightforward. You can even explore the no-deposit option when renting an exclusive car model, of course depending on the vehicle you want to hire. Only a few rentals suggest such a feature but it is worth the search. In the end, it all comes to working with a reputable car rental company.

  • Choose the Right Rental Car

Don’t be surprised when you see people driving in high-end vehicles in the UAE like it’s nothing. This is proof that the country is full of class and high taste. 

As such, car rental companies have to be in sync with what the people want. This explains why you can rent any car model in the UAE without breaking a sweat. 

Many visitors go for Benz, Ferrari, and other supercars to cruise the city. However, an SUV like a Toyota Land Cruiser or Nissan Patrol is more practical for desert adventures.

You should also confirm the transmission type of the rental car. Most Irish drivers drive manual transmission cars, so you may want to ditch the fancy cars in the UAE and go for ones you are more familiar with. The fuel type is also essential. While diesel cars are easier and cheaper to fuel in some countries, petrol is cheaper and more accessible in the UAE.

  • Insurance Types and Coverage

Insurance coverage helps you dodge unexpected expenses in case of an accident. Apart from the basic insurance you get when renting a car, there are others. For instance, collision-waiver damage covers some of the repair fees. The third-party liability covers damage to other vehicles. 

Furthermore, you can explore personal accident insurance when travelling with your family to cover yourself and other car passengers. So, it is best to familiarise yourself with the various types of insurance and what they cover.

  • Understand the Driving Rules

The UAE has strict traffic laws with huge fines for violations. So, familiarise yourself with the driving rules regarding speed limits, pedestrian crossings, and toll payment. The maximum speed on most highways is 140 km/h, with lower limits in the city areas.

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