Documents needed to rent a car in Dubai and Abu Dhabi

The best way to explore Dubai and Abu Dhabi is by renting a car. Documents to rent a car can vary slightly depending on your country. The most obvious document required is a driving license from your country. However there are a few additional documents required as well.

Basic Documents Required

  1. Valid Passport
  2. Driving License must be from same country as passport
  3. Driving License must be at least one year old
  4. Entry Stamp on your Passport for Tourist Visa
  5. Visa or MasterCard credit card in your own name. Other cards are generally not accepted.

These requirements are for GCC residents and residents of the following countries:

  1. GCC Countries (Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, Bahrain)
  2. United States
  3. United Kingdom
  4. Australia
  5. Austria
  6. Belgium
  7. Canada*
  8. Cyprus
  9. Czech Republic*
  10. Denmark
  11. Finland
  12. France
  13. Germany
  14. Greece*
  15. Iceland
  16. Ireland
  17. Italy
  18. Japan*
  19. South Korea*
  20. Luxembourg
  21. Netherlands
  22. New Zealand
  23. Norway
  24. Oman
  25. Poland*
  26. Portugal*
  27. Singapore
  28. Slovakia*
  29. South Africa
  30. Spain
  31. Sweden
  32. Switzerland
  33. Turkey*

* Means you need an Arabic translation done for your driving license

Please note the above list of countries may change so double check with RTA (Roads and Transport Authority) at 8009090 or visit their website.

If you are not from the above countries, then you also need an International Driving License issued in your own country.

Security Deposit

Security deposit for renting a car in Dubai and Abu Dhabi

When you rent a car in UAE, your credit card will be pre-authorized for a certain amount. This is to account for any fines or tolls. Usually this amount ranges from 1,500 AED – 5,000 AED depending on the car. This is roughly equal to $250 – $1,000 USD. For ultra luxury and super sport cars you might have to authorize more.

Security Deposit Refund Duration

This security deposited is refunded back to your card in 15 – 29 days. This duration is to ensure all fines are recorded and paid on time. Usually fines in a different Emirate can take a week or two to appear in Dubai Police fine checking systems. This is why the refund sometimes takes longer than two weeks. Make sure you drive within the speed limit to avoid speeding tickets. Each ticket is at least 600 AED or roughly $130 USD per ticket.

Enjoy your drive and check out our FAQ page for more information. Feel free to contact us at support@ejarcar.com for any questions.