This guide equips you with all the essential knowledge to confidently navigate the car rental process in the UAE. Featuring insights into licensing requirements, driving rules, and money-saving tips, it will turn your transportation planning into a hassle-free experience.
Yes, Chilean travelers can drive in the UAE if they hold a valid Chilean licence and the correct supporting documents. Age limits and the need for an International Driving Permit (IDP) apply.
Form of ID:
Foreign renters must present a valid passport.
Driving licence:
Accepted driving licence include:
• Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP)
• Original driving licence + UAE IDP
• Original driving licence + UAE Embassy Authentication (for Korean, Japanese, Turkish and Greek licence holders only).
Accepted cards:
Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted cards may include Visa, MasterCard, UnionPay, AMEX, Diners Club, JCB and Discover, depending on the specific offer. E‑voucher or printed voucher must be presented. Some offers may also require printed proof of Collision and Theft Protection and Third Party Liability coverage from your card issuer or insurer.
Age requirements:
Depending on the vehicle and offer, the main driver’s age must generally fall within one of these ranges: 21–99, 22–80, 21–80, 25–75, 25–99 or 21–75 years. For some cars, drivers aged 21–24 and 75–80 may be classified as young/old drivers and an additional fee may apply (to be confirmed at the counter). In at least one offer, drivers aged 21+ with a licence held under 12 months or drivers under 25 may be liable for 10% of repair costs in case of an accident.
Requirements may vary between rental companies. Always confirm details when booking.
Explore a variety of car rental options tailored to suit your travel needs in AE.
Global Chain Companies
Local Brands

Hertz
Locations:
86Prices:
$$$Key Advantages
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Budget
Locations:
75Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers
SIXT
Locations:
47Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Travelers seeking luxury and flexibility
Europcar
Locations:
168Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Travelers seeking convenience and variety
Alamo
Locations:
26Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Leisure travelers and families
Keddy by Europcar
Locations:
87Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
Autostrad
Locations:
24Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and local rentals
DRIVUS
Locations:
97Prices:
$-$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and local rentals
Quick Drive
Locations:
56Prices:
$-$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and local explorations
Quicklease
Locations:
8Prices:
$-$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and local rentalsChoosing the right rental car can make your trip more comfortable, safe, and enjoyable. Think about your travel group, the destinations on your route, and the type of driving you'll be doing. With QEEQ, you can compare multiple car types and policies to find the one that best suits your journey.
Consider your travel group size and luggage needs
Economy cars (2-4 people, 1-2 suitcases)
Perfect for city driving and short trips
Compact cars (4-5 people, 2-3 suitcases)
Good balance of space and fuel efficiency
Mid-size cars (5 people, 3-4 suitcases)
Comfortable for longer distances
Full-size/SUV (5-7 people, 4+ suitcases)
Ideal for families and group travel
Choose between automatic and manual transmission
Automatic transmission
Easier for city driving and traffic, more common in the UAE
Manual transmission
Often cheaper, better fuel economy, more control
Consider your comfort level with local driving conditions and transmission types
Check what insurance coverage comes with your rental
Basic liability
Covers damage to other vehicles and property, usually included
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
Covers damage to your rental car, often optional
Theft protection
Protects against car theft, may be included or additional
Personal insurance
Check if your insurance or travel insurance covers rentals
Understand booking flexibility and fees
Free cancellation
Usually available up to 24-48 hours before pickup
Prepaid vs. Pay-at-counter
Prepaid often cheaper but less flexible
Change fees
Cost to modify dates, locations, or car type
Travel insurance
Consider coverage for trip cancellations or delays
Check distance restrictions and additional charges
Unlimited mileage
Best for long road trips and cross-country travel
Limited mileage
Cheaper daily rate but extra charges for excess miles
Consider your planned route distance and potential detours
Factor in mileage costs when comparing total rental prices
Understand fuel requirements and costs
Full-to-Full
Return with the same fuel level, most economical option
Full-to-Empty
Pay upfront for a full tank, convenient but often more expensive
Same-to-Same
Return with the same level as pickup, fair pricing
Pre-purchase fuel options
Compare costs with local gas station prices
Quick Decision Guide
Compact/Economy car with automatic transmission, full-to-full fuel policy
Dubai, Abu DhabiMid-size/Full-size car with unlimited mileage, flexible cancellation
cross-countryConvertible/SUV with comprehensive insurance, prepaid fuel option
Dubai, Fujairah, Al AinCompare with Confidence on QEEQ
The UAE is known for its vibrant cities and stunning landscapes, offering travelers a chance to explore bustling urban areas and serene desert surroundings. Whether you're visiting iconic Dubai or the cultural hubs of Abu Dhabi, car rentals make it easy to discover the country's highlights at your own pace.
You'll need at least basic insurance to legally drive in the UAE, but for peace of mind, additional coverage is highly recommended. Insurance rules vary, and what's included in your rental package may be minimal. Choosing the right protection can save you from significant out-of-pocket expenses in case of an incident.
Covers damage to the rental car from collision or theft.
Protects against theft of the rental vehicle.
Covers injury or damage to others and their property.
Covers medical expenses for you and your passengers.
Perfect for travelers who want comprehensive protection without the complexity. One price covers everything, and AXA's trusted network ensures reliable claims processing throughout United Arab Emirates. Get comprehensive coverage online for about 50% less than counter rates.
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Fully Covered
Discover practical tips for cost-effective car rentals for travelers from CL visiting AE.
Important considerations and potential issues to watch for when renting a car in the UAE.
Being prepared and knowing what to expect can save you hundreds of dollars and prevent stressful situations. Take time to understand all terms and inspect your rental thoroughly.
Travelers from CL to AE should note differences in highway regulations, signage, alcohol limits, and mobile phone usage, alongside several shared rules.
Driving Side
Vehicles are driven on the right side of the road
Vehicles are driven on the left side of the road
Speed Limits
Speed limits are in kilometers per hour (e.g., 120 km/h on highways)
Speed limits are in miles per hour (e.g., 70 mph on highways)
Alcohol Limit
0.05% BAC limit for drivers
0.08% BAC limit for drivers
Mobile Phone Use
Use of hands-free devices is mandatory while driving
Use of hands-free devices is mandatory while driving
Seatbelt Regulations
All passengers are required to wear seatbelts at all times
All passengers are required to wear seatbelts at all times
Parking Rules
Parking restrictions are marked with clear signs and curb markings
Parking restrictions are marked with clear signs and curb markings
Common questions for travelers from Chile renting a car in United Arab Emirates