Dubai car rental checklist
The documents depend on whether you are a UAE resident or a visitor. Check two separate things before booking: whether your licence permits you to drive in the UAE, and whether the rental company accepts your documents under its contract.
Rental companies commonly ask residents for the following. Confirm the exact documents and eligibility with the provider before you reserve.
Visitors should confirm licence acceptance for their issuing country before travelling to the rental desk. Depending on the applicable rules, an IDP may be required alongside the original licence.
UAE Ministry of Economy and Tourism guidance says the minimum age to rent a car is generally 21, and some supercar rental companies may require renters to be older. A company can also set conditions for licence-holding period, vehicle class, insurance excess, mileage, additional drivers, and security deposits. Read the specific rental agreement; these provider terms are not the same as permission to drive under UAE law.
Visitor driving eligibility can depend on the licence issuing country and current official rules. Ask the rental company and check current UAE guidance whether your original licence alone is accepted or whether you also need an IDP.
No formal partnership with any driving institute, authority, or government entity has been confirmed. All information should be verified with the current official guidance before making a decision.
Checked 14 October 2026. Rental-company policies and official driving rules can change; verify both before booking.
