Renting a car in the UAE is quick and straightforward once you have the right paperwork ready. The exact documents you need depend on whether you are a tourist or a resident, and on the country that issued your driving licence.
This 2026 guide lays out precisely what to bring so your pickup takes minutes, not hours.
Minimum age to rent
The standard minimum age to rent a car in the UAE is 21 years. Some companies restrict higher-value or luxury cars to 25 years, and a few apply a young-driver condition for those aged 21–24. Always confirm the age policy for the specific car before booking.
Documents for tourists
- A valid passport with your UAE entry stamp or visa
- Your home-country driving licence, valid and not expired
- An International Driving Permit (IDP) — required if your licence is not in English or Arabic, recommended in all cases
- A credit card in the main driver's name for the deposit
Tourists from many countries — including the UK, US, Canada, most of the EU and Australia — can drive a rental on their national licence for a normal tourist stay. If in doubt, bring an IDP; it removes any ambiguity at the desk.
Documents for GCC nationals
Citizens of GCC countries (Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, Qatar) can typically rent using their national GCC driving licence and a valid ID, without an IDP.
Documents for UAE residents
- A valid UAE driving licence — residents must drive on a UAE licence, not a foreign one
- Your Emirates ID
- A credit or debit card for the deposit
Many nationalities can convert their home licence to a UAE licence without a test; others must pass the local test. If you have just moved, sort your UAE licence first — it is required for both renting and legally driving.
The International Driving Permit (IDP)
An IDP is an official translation of your national licence into multiple languages. It does not replace your licence — you carry both together.
- Get it in your home country before you travel, from an authorised body such as an automobile association
- It is inexpensive and usually valid for one year
- Bring it if your licence is not in English or Arabic, or simply for peace of mind
The security deposit
Beyond your documents, most vendors hold a refundable security deposit on a credit card — commonly AED 500 to AED 2,000 for standard cars, and more for luxury. It is released after you return the car and any tolls or fines are settled. Some vendors offer no-deposit options; learn how in our guide to renting a car in Dubai without a deposit.
Common reasons a rental is refused
- An expired or damaged, unreadable licence
- Being a resident but presenting a foreign licence instead of a UAE one
- A missing IDP when the home licence is not in English or Arabic
- No credit card in the main driver's name for the deposit
- Being under the minimum age for the chosen vehicle
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Frequently asked questions
Can I rent a car in the UAE with my foreign licence?▾
As a tourist, yes — with your national licence and, if it is not in English or Arabic, an International Driving Permit. Residents must use a UAE licence.
Do I need an International Driving Permit?▾
It is required if your licence is not in English or Arabic, and recommended for all tourists to avoid any issue at pickup.
What is the minimum age to rent a car in the UAE?▾
Usually 21, rising to 25 for many luxury and high-value vehicles.
Can residents drive on their home-country licence?▾
No. Once you hold UAE residency you must obtain and drive on a UAE licence.
