Car Rental Requirements in Dubai: Documents & Conditions

Renting a car in Dubai is straightforward when you understand the requirements. The process differs significantly depending on your status—tourist or UAE resident. At Brook Drive, we’ve streamlined the entire experience: no security deposits, minimal paperwork, and contract completion in just 20 minutes. In 2025, you can even use digital copies of documents through official UAE systems, making the process faster than ever.

Quick Checklist: What You Need

Category	Documents Required	Minimum Age
Tourist	Passport, Visit Visa/Entry Stamp, Home Country License + IDP (if applicable)	21+ years
UAE Resident	Emirates ID, UAE Driving License, Residency Visa	21+ years

This table provides a quick reference for the essential requirements. Below, we’ll break down each category in detail, including age-specific restrictions for luxury and sports cars, payment conditions, and answers to common questions.

Documents Required for Tourists

If you’re visiting Dubai on a tourist visa, the rental process is designed to be hassle-free. Here’s exactly what you need to present:

Original Passport: Your physical passport must be valid for at least six months from your entry date. In 2025, digital copies uploaded through the UAE Pass app are accepted for initial contract registration, but you should carry the original for potential police checks.
Visit Visa or Entry Stamp: Either a pre-approved tourist visa or the entry stamp in your passport proving legal entry into the UAE.
Valid Driving License: Your home country’s national driving license. Depending on your country of origin, you may also need an International Driving Permit (IDP)—see details below.

Many tourists visiting Dubai choose convertible cars to experience the city’s iconic coastal roads. Popular models among visitors include the Ford Mustang GT 5.0L V8 (890 AED/day), Bentley Continental Convertible (2690 AED/day), and Porsche 911 Carrera GTS (2190 AED/day). These vehicles offer the perfect combination of performance and open-air luxury for exploring Dubai’s stunning scenery.

Countries Exempt from International Driving Permit (IDP)

Citizens of 52 countries can drive in Dubai using only their national driving license, without needing an IDP. This exemption primarily applies to:

GCC Countries: Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, Qatar
European Union: Most EU member states including Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, Sweden, and others
North America: United States, Canada
Other Countries: United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Singapore

The complete list is maintained by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) of Dubai and is updated periodically. Always verify your country’s status on the official RTA website before traveling.

Who Needs an International Driving Permit (IDP)?

If your country is not on the exempt list, you must obtain an International Driving Permit to legally drive in Dubai. This requirement applies to citizens of:

Russia and CIS Countries: Azerbaijan, Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan
Asian Countries: China, India, Pakistan, Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia (not on the exempt list)
South American Countries: Brazil, Argentina, Colombia, and most others
African Countries: Most nations except South Africa

Brook Drive Assistance Service: We understand that obtaining an IDP can be time-consuming, especially if you realize you need one after arriving in Dubai. Our team offers expedited IDP assistance—we can help you secure an internationally recognized driving permit in as little as 20 minutes to one day. This service costs 200 AED and ensures you can start your rental immediately without delays. This is one of our most appreciated services among travelers from Russia and CIS countries.

Requirements for UAE Residents

If you hold a UAE residency visa and Emirates ID, the documentation requirements are different—and stricter in one important way.

Required Documents

Emirates ID: Your valid UAE national identity card
UAE Driving License: A locally issued driving license from any emirate
Residency Visa: Copy of your valid residency visa (can be digital through official UAE apps)

Critical Legal Requirement: UAE residents are legally required to use their local UAE driving license when renting and driving vehicles in the Emirates. Using tourist permits or international licenses while holding residency status is illegal and can result in severe penalties. According to Federal Law No. 31 of 2021, Article 447, driving without proper authorization carries fines up to 10,000 AED and potential imprisonment of up to one year. Insurance companies will also deny coverage if you’re found driving on invalid documentation.

Many UAE residents prefer SUVs for family trips and daily commuting. For long-term rentals, Brook Drive offers exceptional monthly rates that provide significant savings compared to daily prices:

Model	Daily Price (AED)	Monthly Price (30+ days, AED)	Monthly Savings
Nissan Patrol LE Platinum City	990	690	Save 9,000 AED/month
Cadillac Escalade Sport Platinum	1,290	890	Save 12,000 AED/month
Hyundai Staria	590	390	Save 6,000 AED/month

These monthly rates make premium vehicles accessible for extended periods, whether you’re waiting for your own car to arrive or need flexible transportation during your residency.

Age Limits and Driving Experience

Age requirements in Dubai vary significantly based on the vehicle category you wish to rent. While the baseline minimum is 21 years, insurance companies and rental providers impose stricter rules for high-performance and luxury vehicles.

Standard Requirements

Minimum Age: 21 years for economy, compact, and mid-size sedans
Minimum Driving Experience: At least 6 months of licensed driving history (some insurers require 1 year)

Luxury and Sports Car Requirements

Minimum Age: 25 years for most sports cars and luxury vehicles
Minimum Driving Experience: 3 to 5 years depending on vehicle class and engine power
Insurance Considerations: High-value vehicles require enhanced coverage, which insurers only extend to drivers meeting strict age and experience criteria

The table below illustrates how requirements vary across different vehicle categories at Brook Drive:

Car Model	Minimum Age	Minimum Experience	Price (1 day, AED)
Mini Cooper S Convertible	21 years	3 years	490
BMW 420 Convertible	21 years	3 years	790
Audi RS6 Mansory	25 years	3 years	2,300
Ferrari F8 Spider	25 years	3 years	3,390
Rolls Royce Cullinan Black	25 years	5 years	4,290

These requirements are not arbitrary—they’re based on insurance risk assessments and local regulations. Younger drivers with less experience statistically have higher accident rates with powerful vehicles, which is why providers must enforce these minimums to maintain insurance coverage validity.

Payment Conditions: Rent Without Deposit

One of the most frustrating aspects of car rental worldwide is the security deposit requirement. Traditional rental companies block thousands of dirhams on your credit card for weeks, creating cash flow problems and currency conversion losses when the hold is finally released.

Brook Drive’s No-Deposit Policy

We’ve eliminated this barrier entirely. When you rent from us, there’s no credit card hold, no frozen funds, and no waiting period for deposit returns. This policy applies across our entire fleet, including ultra-luxury and exotic vehicles.

Accepted Payment Methods

Cash: AED, USD, EUR accepted at our office
Credit/Debit Cards: Visa, Mastercard, American Express
Cryptocurrency: We accept Bitcoin and major cryptocurrencies for tech-savvy clients
Bank Transfers: Direct transfers for corporate clients and long-term rentals

This trust-based approach is possible because of our comprehensive insurance coverage and robust client verification process. To demonstrate how unusual this is in the luxury segment, consider that we offer deposit-free rentals on vehicles like:

Lamborghini Urus Novitec (3,375 AED/day)—a 650-horsepower super SUV
Mercedes G63 AMG Black (2,290 AED/day)—the iconic luxury off-roader
Ferrari SF90 Stradale (8,775 AED/day)—a hybrid hypercar worth over 1 million AED

Traditional rental companies would require deposits of 10,000 to 50,000 AED for these vehicles. Our policy saves you from tying up capital and eliminates the risk of deposit disputes upon return. We’ve built our reputation on transparency and customer trust, which is why we’ve served thousands of satisfied clients since our founding.

Driving Between Emirates: Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and Beyond

Dubai’s central location makes it easy to explore neighboring emirates, and all Brook Drive rental agreements include permission to drive throughout the UAE. However, there are important considerations to keep in mind.

Required Documentation for Inter-Emirate Travel

Keep your rental agreement, passport, and driving license with you at all times
Only the drivers listed on the contract may operate the vehicle—sharing with unlisted persons violates Federal Law No. 31 of 2021 and can result in 10,000 AED fines
Ensure you’re covered by the insurance policy for inter-emirate travel (all our policies include this by default)

Salik (Toll System) in Dubai

Dubai’s electronic toll system charges 4-5 AED per gate crossing. At Brook Drive, Salik charges are calculated based on actual usage and added to your final bill—there are no hidden fees or markups. Other emirates don’t use Salik, but Abu Dhabi has its own toll system (Darb) which works similarly.

Traffic Rules and Cameras

Speed limits vary by emirate and road type. Dubai and Abu Dhabi have extensive camera networks monitoring speed, red lights, lane discipline, and seat belt usage. Fines range from 300 AED for minor violations to 3,000 AED for serious offenses like excessive speeding. Black points are also added to your driving record, which can affect insurance rates and legal standing.

Important Restrictions

Driving outside the UAE (to Oman or Saudi Arabia) requires advance written permission and additional insurance—contact us at least 48 hours before your planned trip
Off-road driving in desert areas is prohibited for most vehicles and voids insurance coverage unless you’ve rented a specifically equipped 4×4 with off-road authorization
Driving under any influence of alcohol is absolutely forbidden—the UAE enforces zero-tolerance policies with severe legal consequences including imprisonment

Digital Documents and 2025 Technology Updates

Dubai has rapidly digitized government services, and car rental is no exception. In 2025, the UAE Pass app and Ejari portal allow you to upload and verify documents electronically, streamlining the rental process significantly.

Accepted Digital Documentation

Passport Scans: High-resolution photos or PDFs uploaded through UAE Pass are legally valid for contract registration
Emirates ID: Residents can use the digital version stored in official UAE government apps
Driving License: Some rental companies accept scanned copies for initial verification, though physical licenses must be presented before taking possession of the vehicle

Important Caveat: While digital documents are accepted for rental contract purposes, Dubai Police and RTA officers during traffic stops may request physical documents. We recommend carrying originals whenever you’re driving, even if you completed the rental process digitally.

At Brook Drive, we’ve integrated with digital verification systems to speed up contract processing. Clients who upload their documents through our online portal before arrival can complete the rental in under 10 minutes at our office—perfect for travelers with tight schedules or early morning flights to catch.

Insurance Coverage: What’s Included and What’s Not

Every Brook Drive rental includes comprehensive insurance coverage as standard, but understanding the details helps you avoid surprises.

Standard Coverage Includes

Collision Damage Waiver (CDW): Covers damage to the rental vehicle in most accident scenarios
Third-Party Liability: Protects you against claims from other parties involved in accidents
Theft Protection: Coverage if the vehicle is stolen while in your possession

Coverage Exclusions

Damage caused by driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
Off-road damage if the vehicle is not authorized for such use
Damage from illegal racing or reckless driving
Mechanical failures due to negligence (e.g., ignoring warning lights)

Age-Related Insurance Requirements

For drivers under 25 years renting sports or luxury vehicles, insurance premiums may be higher, and some insurers require co-payment clauses in case of accidents. This is standard across the industry and reflects actuarial risk assessments. For our most exotic vehicles, we require drivers to be 25+ with at least three years of experience specifically because insurance coverage becomes invalid for younger or less experienced drivers.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Based on our years of experience, here are the most frequent errors clients make and how to prevent them:

1. Forgetting the International Driving Permit

Clients from Russia, China, and India often arrive without realizing they need an IDP. This causes unnecessary stress and delays. Solution: Check the RTA exempt country list before traveling, or use our 200 AED fast-track IDP service.

2. Assuming Residency Allows Use of Tourist Permits

UAE residents sometimes believe they can use their home country license with an IDP. This is illegal once you hold Emirates ID. Solution: Always use your UAE-issued driving license if you’re a resident.

3. Underestimating Age and Experience Requirements

Younger travelers book exotic cars online without checking age restrictions, leading to refusals at pickup. Solution: Review our vehicle-specific requirements before booking, or contact our team for clarification.

4. Not Understanding Salik and Traffic Fines

Some clients are surprised by toll charges and speed camera fines appearing on their final bill. Solution: Drive within speed limits, monitor your speed in camera zones (usually marked), and budget for Salik if you’re driving frequently in Dubai.

5. Sharing the Vehicle with Unlisted Drivers

Letting a friend or family member drive without adding them to the contract invalidates insurance and violates UAE law. Solution: Add all potential drivers to the rental agreement—we don’t charge extra fees for additional drivers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use digital documents?

Yes, in 2025 digital copies of documents uploaded through UAE Pass, Ejari, or our online portal are accepted for rental contract registration. However, you must carry physical originals (passport, driving license) while driving, as Dubai Police and RTA officers may request them during traffic stops. Digital Emirates ID stored in official UAE government apps is fully accepted by authorities.

Can I drive to other Emirates like Abu Dhabi and Sharjah?

Absolutely. All Brook Drive rental agreements include permission to drive throughout the UAE, including Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah, and Umm Al Quwain. Remember to carry your rental contract, and be aware that Dubai’s Salik toll system charges apply when crossing toll gates in Dubai. Abu Dhabi has a similar system called Darb. Driving outside the UAE to Oman or Saudi Arabia requires advance permission and additional insurance.

Is insurance included in the rental price?

Yes, comprehensive insurance (CDW and third-party liability) is included in all our quoted prices. There are no hidden insurance fees. However, coverage becomes invalid if you violate UAE traffic laws (driving under the influence, illegal racing, off-road driving in unauthorized vehicles). For high-performance cars, age and experience requirements are strictly enforced because insurance companies only cover drivers who meet these criteria.

What happens if I get a traffic fine?

Traffic fines in Dubai are processed through the vehicle’s registration, which means they appear on our company account first. When you return the vehicle, we’ll calculate any outstanding fines based on RTA records and add them to your final bill, along with a small administrative processing fee. Fines range from 300 AED for minor violations (not wearing seatbelt) to 3,000 AED for serious offenses (excessive speeding). To avoid surprises, always obey speed limits and traffic signals—Dubai’s camera network is extremely comprehensive.

Can I rent a car with a newly issued license?

This depends on how recently your license was issued. Most insurance companies require at least six months of licensed driving experience, and for sports or luxury vehicles, the minimum is typically 1-3 years. If your license is brand new (issued within the last six months), you may be restricted to economy or compact cars only. Contact our team with your specific situation, and we’ll confirm which vehicles are available to you.

Do I need a credit card to rent?

No. Unlike most rental companies that require credit cards for security deposit holds, Brook Drive accepts cash, debit cards, and cryptocurrency. We don’t block any funds on your card, so there’s no waiting period for deposit release. This policy applies to all vehicles in our fleet, from budget sedans to exotic supercars.

What if I want to extend my rental period?

Extensions are simple—just contact us at least 24 hours before your return date. We’ll check vehicle availability and provide you with updated pricing. For extended rentals beyond 30 days, we offer discounted monthly rates that provide significant savings compared to daily pricing. If you’re a UAE resident, our long-term packages on SUVs and luxury sedans are particularly cost-effective.

Why Choose Brook Drive?

Since our founding, we’ve built a reputation on three core principles: transparency, flexibility, and exceptional service. Here’s what sets us apart in Dubai’s competitive rental market:

No Deposit, No Hassle

We’re one of the only premium rental companies in Dubai offering truly deposit-free rentals across our entire fleet, including vehicles worth millions of dirhams. This saves you from weeks of waiting for deposit returns and eliminates currency conversion losses.

Instant Documentation Assistance

Need an International Driving Permit? We can arrange it in 20 minutes. Forgot to bring a required document? Our team will guide you through digital alternatives or rapid solutions.

Transparent Pricing

The price we quote is the price you pay. Salik tolls and traffic fines are calculated at cost with no markup. Insurance is included in all rates. No surprises at checkout.

Flexible Payment Options

Whether you prefer cash, cards, or cryptocurrency, we accommodate your preferred payment method without imposing arbitrary restrictions.

Premium Fleet

From practical SUVs perfect for family trips to exotic hypercars for special occasions, our fleet includes over 100 meticulously maintained vehicles. Every car is cleaned, inspected, and fully fueled before handover.

Airport Delivery

Landing at Dubai International or Al Maktoum International? We’ll deliver your chosen vehicle directly to the airport, allowing you to start your journey immediately without detours to rental offices.

We understand that renting a car in a foreign country can be stressful, especially when dealing with unfamiliar regulations and documentation requirements. Our team is here to make the experience effortless, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a long-term Dubai resident. Contact us today, and discover why thousands of clients trust Brook Drive for their transportation needs in the UAE.