Renting a vehicle in Dubai is easier than ever. You just have to submit a few documents, pay a small deposit and you’re ready to go. However, some rent-a-car companies may charge you much higher than advertised. In most cases, it will be in the form of hidden fees which won’t be revealed until its time to return the vehicle. So let’s take a look at a few areas where you may be overcharged and how you can avoid overspending: 

Airport Surcharge

If you are renting your vehicle directly from the rental stalls at the airport, you will be charged an additional airport fee. This fee is unavoidable and varies depending on the location. To skip this charge, we recommend having your vehicle pre-booked and delivered to you, as most rental companies offer a free drop off to your hotel or temporary residence.

Returning the car early

It’s a common misconception that if you return your car early, you are likely to save on rental charges. Most rent-a-car companies will charge you a fee if the vehicle is returned ahead of time since it violates a contractual agreement. It’s always good to discuss such conditions beforehand with your car rental company.

Insurance

When you rent a car, your rental company may add an insurance package that may cost you much more. It’s always better to understand the insurance charges beforehand and if you actually require it. If you have already applied for travel insurance, review your policy thoroughly, as there is a good chance you are already covered for road transportation.

Additional add-ons 

Your rental provider may add some additional features to the car such as WiFi and Unlimited Spotify without your consent. We recommend revising the features of your rental package so that you know exactly what you are paying for.

Fuel mark up

When you return your rented car without adequate fuel levels, you will be charged a refueling fee. In addition, a convenience fee will also be applied which only increases the cost. Always be mindful of the car’s fuel level and make sure to top-off the tank to avoid such unnecessary fees.

It may seem daunting to rent a car after being aware of such hidden charges. However, as long as you keep an eye on the details, your rental experience will be a breeze. Do you know any other hidden fees that we could have missed? Let us know in the comments below.