This guide provides comprehensive and practical information for US travelers renting cars in the UAE. Whether you're exploring the bustling streets of Dubai or venturing into the breathtaking deserts, you'll find everything you need to plan a seamless driving experience.
Yes, US travelers can legally drive in the UAE with the proper documentation. Age restrictions and additional document requirements may apply.
Form of ID:
A valid passport is required for foreign renters.
Driving licence:
Accepted driving licence include:
• Original driving licence + UAE IDP
• Original driving licence + UAE Embassy Authentication
• GCC Driving License
Accepted cards:
Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver. Supported cards include Visa, Master, UnionPay, AMEX, DinersClub, JCB, and Discover.
Age requirements:
Drivers must be between 21-99 years old. Young drivers aged 21-24 may incur additional fees, which are to be confirmed at the rental desk.
Requirements may vary between rental companies. Always confirm details when booking.
Explore a variety of car rental companies in the UAE, ranging from well-known international brands to trusted local providers.
Global Chain Companies
Local Brands

Hertz
Locations:
86Prices:
$$$Key Advantages
Best for
Business travelers and premium vehicle needs
Budget
Locations:
85Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers
SIXT
Locations:
44Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Travelers seeking luxury and flexibility
Europcar
Locations:
171Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Travelers seeking convenience and variety
Alamo
Locations:
27Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Leisure travelers and families
Keddy by Europcar
Locations:
82Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and families
Autostrad
Locations:
38Prices:
$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and local rentals
DRIVUS
Locations:
116Prices:
$-$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and local rentals
Quick Drive
Locations:
88Prices:
$-$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and local explorations
Quicklease
Locations:
10Prices:
$-$$Key Advantages
Best for
Budget-conscious travelers and local rentalsSelecting the ideal rental car for your journey can enhance your comfort and overall travel experience. Take into account your group size, the nature of your destinations, and driving conditions. With QEEQ, easily compare various car types and policies to find the best match for your travel needs.
Assess the space requirements for passengers and luggage
Economy cars (2-4 people, 1-2 suitcases)
Great for urban areas and shorter trips
Compact cars (4-5 people, 2-3 suitcases)
A good mix of space and fuel efficiency
Mid-size cars (5 people, 3-4 suitcases)
Suitable for longer travel
Full-size/SUV (5-7 people, 4+ suitcases)
Best for families or larger groups
Decide between automatic or manual transmission
Automatic transmission
Comfortable for traffic and urban driving
Manual transmission
Cost-effective and provides better control
Consider your familiarity with the transmission type
Review the insurance coverage provided
Basic liability
Included, covers third-party damages
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
Optional, covers rental car damages
Theft protection
May be included or additional
Personal accident insurance
Check whether included in your travel insurance
Understand the flexibility and potential fees
Free cancellation
Available up to a certain time before pickup
Prepaid vs. Pay-at-counter
Prepaid is cheaper but less flexible
Change fees
Fees for modifying the booking
Travel insurance
Consider its coverage for cancellations
Verify if there are restrictions on distance
Unlimited mileage
Ideal for extensive travel or road trips
Limited mileage
Lower daily rates but extra charges for exceeding limits
Balance travel plans against mileage policies
Determine the refueling requirements
Full-to-Full
Most economical, return with a full tank
Full-to-Empty
Prepay for fuel, convenient but potentially costly
Check pre-purchase fuel rates
Quick Decision Guide
Compact/Economy car with automatic transmission, full-to-full fuel policy
Dubai, Abu Dhabi, SharjahMid-size/Full-size car with unlimited mileage, flexible cancellation
Across UAE deserts and townsSUV or convertible with insurance coverage, prepaid fuel option
Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah, FujairahCompare with Confidence on QEEQ
The UAE is renowned for its modern architecture, luxury shopping, and vibrant cultural experiences. Cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi are top choices, offering a blend of tradition and innovation. Travelers can enjoy seamless car rental services to explore landmarks such as the Burj Khalifa or the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.
When renting a car in the United Arab Emirates (AE), it's important to understand the required and optional insurance coverage to ensure a safe and hassle-free experience. Requirements may vary depending on the rental company, but having adequate coverage can protect you from unexpected expenses.
Covers the cost of repairing the rental vehicle in case of a collision.
Provides coverage if the rental car is stolen during the rental period.
Covers damages to other vehicles or property caused by the rental car.
Offers medical coverage for injuries sustained by you or your passengers during an accident.
Provides additional liability coverage beyond the basic third-party liability insurance.
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 the best strategies to cut costs while ensuring a smooth car rental experience in the UAE. Smart planning and informed decisions can make your trip both enjoyable and economical.
Important considerations and potential issues to watch for when renting a car in the United Arab Emirates.
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.
While driving in AE, travelers from the US should note differences like driving on the right side of the road, stricter alcohol limits, and diverse cultural approaches to traffic laws. Similarities include mandatory seatbelt use and adherence to speed limits.
Driving Side
Drive on the right-hand side
Drive on the right-hand side
Alcohol Limits
Zero tolerance for alcohol while driving
0.08% BAC limit
Speed Limits
Expressways: 120 km/h; Urban areas: 60 km/h
Highways: 55-75 mph; Urban areas: 25-35 mph
Parking Regulations
Strictly enforced in designated areas
Varies by city, often flexible in residential areas
Mobile Phone Use
Hands-free devices only
Hands-free devices only
Accident Reporting
Mandatory to report all accidents to authorities
Report necessary for significant damage or injury
Seatbelt Use
Mandatory for all occupants
Mandatory for all occupants
Common questions for travelers from United States renting a car in United Arab Emirates