Dubai is a city designed around the car — wide, immaculate highways, a complete absence of potholes, and fuel so cheap it borders on free by European standards. The city's skyline drives are genuinely spectacular. But beyond the Marina and Downtown, a hire car opens up the Hajar Mountains (the Al Ain road), the golden dunes of the Arabian Desert, and the culturally rich old town of Al Fahidi.

Picking up your hire car in Dubai

  • Dubai International Airport (DXB) — Terminals 1, 2 and 3 all have car hire desks in arrivals. Major suppliers include Hertz, Avis, Budget, Europcar, Thrifty and several local UAE companies. Competition is strong — compare carefully.
  • Al Maktoum International (DWC) — Dubai South airport, mainly used by budget carriers. Fewer on-site hire companies; most require a shuttle transfer.
  • UAE licence requirements: Most nationalities (UK, US, EU, Australia, Canada) can drive in Dubai with their home licence. An International Driving Permit is recommended but not always required. Check with your supplier before arrival.

Driving in and around Dubai

  • Drive on the right. Speed limits strictly camera-enforced: 80–120 km/h on Sheikh Zayed Road, 60–80 km/h urban. Fines are issued automatically and some apply to hire companies who pass costs to renters.
  • Salik toll system: four toll gates on major Dubai roads. Most hire cars include a Salik tag — confirm at collection.
  • Dubai roads have no roundabouts — all major junctions are interchanges. Learn your exit numbers before driving.
  • Parking: free in most residential areas and shopping malls. Metered parking (RTA) operates in tourist areas and near the beach.
  • Zero tolerance for drink driving — do not drive after any alcohol consumption whatsoever.

Where to go — best drives from Dubai

Sheikh Zayed Road night drive — simply driving the length of SZR at night, from the old Dubai creek end to Jebel Ali, is a genuine spectacle. The Burj Khalifa, the Frame and the Marina towers create a skyline unlike anywhere else on earth. Hatta Mountain Road (1.5 hrs) — the E44 highway east from Dubai passes through rock desert and climbs into the Hajar Mountains to the Hatta Heritage Village and reservoir. Al Ain (1.5 hrs south) — the ancient oasis city of Al Ain is one of the UAE's most significant cultural destinations, with UNESCO-listed oases and a fascinating camel souk. Sharjah (45 mins north) — Dubai's more traditional neighbour has outstanding Islamic arts museums and an atmospheric old quarter. Easy day trip via the E11.

Desert tip: The Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve (35 mins from the city) has paved roads through protected oryx and gazelle habitat — extraordinary to find this close to one of the world's busiest cities.
Price tip: Dubai is one of the world's most competitive car hire markets — always compare at least 4–5 suppliers before booking. Local and regional companies often undercut the big brands significantly.
Book for Dubai now: Compare live prices from 900+ suppliers at Dubai car hire. Prices from $28/day. No booking fees.