UAE car rental guide
What Documents Do I Need to Rent a Car in the UAE?
The UAE is stricter than several nearby countries on the licence-and-permit question — without the right paperwork, some suppliers simply won't hand over the keys, rather than charging a surcharge.
The core documents
| Document | Notes |
|---|---|
| Passport with entry stamp or visa | Standard requirement for all visitors |
| National driving licence | Usually needs to be 1-3 years old depending on the car category |
| International Driving Permit | Required if your licence isn't printed in English or Arabic |
| Payment method | A card in the main driver's name for the deposit |
Why the IDP is more strictly enforced here
In several countries, missing an IDP means a surcharge or extra scrutiny. In the UAE, most licensed rental companies genuinely require both the national licence and an International Driving Permit together, and without one it can be officially impossible to complete the rental — arrange it before you travel, not after landing.
Licence age requirements
Suppliers typically require the licence to have been held for at least one to three years, with the exact threshold depending on the vehicle category — a premium or larger car sometimes needs more driving history than an economy model.
What to bring to the pickup counter
Bring physical copies of your passport, licence and IDP, not just photos on your phone. If you booked online, print or save your confirmation offline too, since not every pickup location guarantees strong mobile signal.
FAQ
Do I need an International Driving Permit to rent a car in the UAE?
Yes, if your licence isn't printed in English or Arabic — for most nationalities, it's treated as a requirement rather than an optional extra.
How old does my driving licence need to be?
Typically at least one to three years, depending on the car category you want to rent.
Can I rent a car without an International Driving Permit?
Generally no, unless you hold a licence from a country specifically approved under the local Markhoos system — check with your supplier if you're unsure.
Do I need to bring paper copies of my documents?
It's safer to. Not every pickup point has reliable connectivity, and some staff still prefer to see originals.
The UAE treats the licence-plus-IDP combination as a genuine requirement, not a formality — sort it before you fly, since it can be the difference between driving away and not.