What Cars Do American Tourists Prefer to Rent in Dubai

Planning a vacation in Dubai with a rental car and wondering what other Americans typically choose to drive? With virtually endless choices, it’s common, especially with first-timers. This blog delves into American tourists’ top car rental preferences in Dubai categorically, explaining the influencing factors, and offering some expert tips for seamless experience during and after the rental. Let’s first understand why American tourists rent cars in Dubai.

Why American Tourists Rent Cars in Dubai

While there are many reasons why American tourists rent cars in Dubai, these are the most common and comprehensive ones:

1. Freedom & Convenience:

Dubai rental cars enable you to escape the confines and limitations of public transport (Dubai Metro & RTA Buses). You gain freedom and flexibility to execute your travel itinerary at your convenience. Whether at midnight or early dawn, you’re in control of your trip. Furthermore, the comfort a rental car offers is unparalleled by public transport. 

2. Privacy & Safety:

Besides convenience and flexibility, rental cars offer complete privacy, unlike RTA taxis and ridesharing apps, like Careem and Hala. Privacy doesn’t apply to Dubai Metro and RTA buses. Romantic date night drives or confidential corporate transfers are not possible with public transport. Additionally, rental automobiles in Dubai ensure absolute safety; they are kept well-maintained at all times by the agencies. For safe and private driving experiences, car hire is an ideal choice.

3. Cost-effective & Personalized Exploration:

While this might seem counterintuitive, rental cars are cheaper than RTA taxis and Careems in the long-term. As RTA buses and Metros are not ideal for personalized explorations, car hires are your go-to choices for cost-effective travel in the Emirates. Whether you want to drive up to the Hajar Mountains or experience thrilling desert drives on Al Ain-Dubai Road, rental cars (Ferrari SF90 or Nissan GTR) are undisputed. 

4. Dubai’s Automotive Appeal & Culture Fit:

Dubai is a vibrant emirate of automotive masterpieces (from cheap economy cars to exotic hypercars), catering to every car enthusiast’s driving desire. This unmatched appeal allures many American tourists, sometimes only for auto experiences. Furthermore, the road infrastructures and driving environment (similar road rules, automatic transmissions cars) are similar, empowering even the first timers to drive confidently on Dubai’s modern roads.

5. Impressing Clients on Business Trips:

Besides leisure travels and personal experience, American tourists rent corporate cars to impress clients on business trips. They leverage the appeal and elegance of high-end luxury cars, like Rolls Royce Cullinan and Bentley Bentayga and supercars, like Lamborghini Huracan EVO and Ferrari F8 Tributo to demonstrate their commitment for success and excellence. Winning over the clients simplifies when you drive stunningly beautiful cars.

Categories of Cars Preferred by American Tourists

Knowing why American tourists rent cars while traveling to Dubai, let’s take a look at the different categories of cars they prefer. These are the generalized and most commonly rented cars by American visitors in Dubai, per FriendsCarRental.

Supercars & Hypercars

1. Bugatti Chiron

American tourists seeking the absolute pinnacle of automotive performance and luxury rent Bugatti Chiron. This hypercar is ideal for making a statement at events, gatherings, and business meetings. Renting a Chiron goes beyond travel & transport, it's about living the dream of extravagance and a high-octane thrill on world-class roads.

Rental Price: Starting at AED 75,000/day, AED 450,000/week, and AED 1,500,000/month.

Where to Rent: Saadat Rent, BillionRent, King Rent, or RentLuxCar.

2. Porsche 911 Turbo

Porsche 911 Turbo offers the perfect blend of iconic sports car heritage and exhilarating performance. This appeals to a lot of American car enthusiasts, as many seek radical speed, precise handling, and classic luxury appeal. It complements Dubai’s buzzing automotive culture while standing out with iconic exclusivity. Hence, a top pick among US visitors in Dubai.

Rental Price: Starting at AED 2,500/day, AED 15,000/week, and AED 60,000/month.

Where to Rent: Grand Royal Rent a Car, Hermas Cars, and Octane Rent.

3. McLaren 720S

McLaren 720S caters to American tourists who prefer cutting-edge design and raw, track-inspired performance. 720S’s exclusivity stands out on Dubai’s roads, stealing second glances everywhere you go. This British automotive masterpiece is the perfect choice if you seek an unforgettable, distinct statement and ultimate driving precision.

Rental Price: Starting at AED 2,500/day, AED 15,000/week, and AED 60,000/month.

Where to Rent: Edel & Stark, Renty, and Dubai Muscle Car.

Luxury and Sports Cars

1. Lamborghini Huracán

Lamborghini Huracán is the ultimate choice for those seeking the quintessential flashy Dubai experience. Lambo’s exotic Italian design and roaring V10 engine grab attention everywhere you drive it to. Huracan perfectly complements Dubai’s vibrant luxury scene. American tourists renting a Huracán desire an undeniable statement and a truly visceral driving thrill, embodying the city's high-octane lifestyle.

Rental Price: Starting at AED 2,300/day, AED 13,800/week, and AED 45,000/month.

Where to Rent: FriendsCarRental, Nova Luxe Rentals, and BE VIP Rent a Car.

2. Rolls-Royce Ghost

Rolls-Royce Ghost is undoubtedly the epitome of luxury and serene comfort. It’s appealing from the outside and lavishly plush on the inside, redefining the luxury experience on a different level. Americans seeking a whisper-quiet ride with unparalleled experience for high-end leisure tours or making a powerful corporate impression in Dubai, hire RR Ghosts. Rolls-Royce guarantees an ultimate refinement and sophisticated style to match Dubai's grandeur on all levels.

Rental Price: Starting at AED 1,397/day, AED 8,382/week, and AED 30,000/month.

Where to Rent: Car Rental DXB, Moosa Car Rental, and Trinity Rental.

3. Mercedes-Benz S-Class

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class is all about pure, sophisticated luxury with the finest technologies. This benchmark executive sedan ensures surreal comfort, smooth performance, and prestigious feel, alluring many American travelers in Dubai. Both business and luxury travelers equally love to drive this S-Class on Dubai’s silky smooth roads. Mercedes-Benz S-Class fits all occasions, from comfortable city exploration to executive engagements.

Rental Price: Starting at AED 650/day, AED 3,900/week, and AED 13,000/month.

Where to Rent: Rotana Star, Sky Luxse, and FriendsCarRental.

SUVs

1. Nissan Patrol

Nissan Patrol is one of the most popular cars in the Emirates, which draws American tourists' interest as well. The Patrol seamlessly embodies the blend of comfort and capability. Ideally, popular among family car renters, it offers robust performance, spacious interior, and strong local appeal. US visitors in Dubai with families pick the Nissan Patrol for city exploration and even light cross-emirate adventures.

Rental Price: Starting at AED 350/day, AED 2,100/week, and AED 7,000/month.

Where to Rent: Al Mizan Rent a Car, Faster Rent a Car, and Exford Rent a Car.

2. Range Rover Vogue

Range Rover Vogue has a bold and commanding presence, which American car renters love for a reason. Range Vogue’s refined luxury, iconic design, sound performance, and undeniable appeal resonate with US car renters. This luxurious SUV is ideal for city drives and long-distance explorations. It offers premium SUV experience, delivering opulence and versatility on Dubai’s diverse terrains.

Rental Price: Starting at AED 599/day, AED 3,594/week, and AED 10,545/month.

Where to Rent: Miami Car Rental, Miami Car Rental, and Luxury Car Rental Dubai.

3. Toyota Land Cruiser

Toyota Land Cruiser is a top choice among American tourists traveling to Dubai with family. Land Cruiser’s reliability and go-anywhere capability resonate well with Americans. The SUV’s robust build, spacious cabin, and appreciable performance make it a highly practical choice for families, especially those planning cross-emirate explorations. It’s a true workhorse of luxury.

Rental Price: Starting at AED 350/day, AED 2,100/week, and AED 7,000/month.

Where to Rent: Faster Rent a Car, Renty, and X Car Rental.

Economy and Compact Cars

1. Toyota Corolla 

Toyota Corolla is a popular economy car that is typically common for Americans wanting cheap cars for their budget travel in Dubai. Besides affordability, Corolla ensures unmatched reliability, high fuel efficiency, and ease of driving. Corollas are perfect rental cars for daily explorations, shopping trips, and general commuting in Dubai.

Rental Price: Starting at AED 80/day, AED 480/week, and AED 1,600/month.

Where to Rent: Amex Car Rental, Beno, and Renty.

2. Hyundai Accent

Hyundai Accent blends great fuel economy and a compact size to offer exceptional value for your money. Tourists who desire to navigate the bustling areas of Deira and old Dubai with ease of parking convenience, hire Accents. It’s perfect for couples looking for comfortable and efficient drive without a significant rental expense.

Rental Price: Starting at AED 59/day, AED 354/week, and AED 1,180/month.

Where to Rent: Legend Rent a Car, EasyTerra Car Rental, and Rent A Cheap Car.

3. Kia Rio

Kia Roi is a modern, efficient, and budget-friendly compact car for Dubai adventures. Its contemporary design and easy handling impress renters, making city navigation seamless. This cost-effective compact car is a reliable drive for Americans who plan to explore the emirate's landmarks, from Burj Khalifa to Gold Souk. The Rio is robust and practical on urban roads.

Rental Price: Starting at AED 70/day, AED 420/week, and AED 1,400/month.

Where to Rent: eZhire, Beno, and Gulf Oasis Rent A Car.

Disclaimer: Please note that all prices and car availability mentioned are subject to change without prior notice. The information provided is for general guidance only, and it's always best to confirm directly with the rental provider for the most current details.

Factors Influencing Car Choices

With a clear idea of which cars American tourists prefer to rent in Dubai (different categories), let’s see what factors influence those choices in the following section.

1. Rental Purpose

Renters pick cars according to their travel requirements. While business travelers choose luxury and high-end sports cars, like Rolls-Royce Phantom or Lamborghini Urus, leisure travelers may pick practical SUVs and sleek sedans, like BMW 7 Series and Range Rover Velar. Thrill seekers opt for supercars (Ferrari SF90), and family travelers go for spacious, comfortable, and practical family cars or minivans, like Mercedes V250 or GMC Yukon. Different requirements mandate different cars.

2. Budget

The money matters the most while renting a car in Dubai, followed by your desires. Budget travelers look for cheap economy options like a Toyota Corolla or Kia Rio, while affluent renters target high-end luxury cars such as an Aston Martin Vantage or Bugatti Chiron.

3. Driving Familiarity

Most American tourists prefer automatic cars with robust power, comfort, and convenience. They usually pick brands like Chevrolet, Toyota, and Ford. They seek a familiar driving experience like when they are back home.

4. Seasonal Demand

Seasonal demands affect the availability of rental cars in Dubai. The availability dips during the winter (Nov-Feb) when tourists flock in from around the world. This leaves only a few choices for last-minute renters, as early bookers get the best cars. Conversely, in the summer (June-August), car availability rises and prices drop.

Practical Tips for American Tourists Renting Cars in Dubai

Having gained a comprehensive understanding of American tourists’ car rental preferences, their influencing factors, and core motivations in Dubai, you now have a solid foundation. However, to truly ensure a memorable, hassle-free experience, grasping some fundamental yet crucial tips for renting cars in Dubai is essential. Let’s take a look at some important ones.

• Always rent cars from reputable rental agencies, whether local (FriendsCarRental) or international (Hertz, Avis).

• Compare top local and international rental companies, considering their car fleets, rental prices, transparent policies, and customer service. Leverage Google Reviews and other platforms for existing customer views.

• Understand their rental policies, from fuel policies to smoking in the car policies. Inquire and learn about all aspects that could lead to potential extra charges, including Salik, traffic fines, and damage & repair costs.

• Only sign the rental agreement if you agree with the details in it.

• Inspect the car well before picking it up or receiving it. Document the initial status of the car (inside and out) on videos to prevent potential conflicts over existing damages.

• Always adhere to RTA traffic regulations while driving in Dubai. Drive safe, respect other drivers, stay proactive on the road, and drive within the terms of your rental agreement.

• If possible, subscribe to additional car rental insurance to financially safeguard yourself against car damage, accidents, injuries, and vandalism during your rental. It’s recommended for first-time renters.

• Always return your car on time, per the agreed rental agreement. Delays will incur late return fees. Contact your agency immediately if you predict delays.

Conclusion

American tourists rent different cars in Dubai, depending on several aspects, from budget and purpose to driving familiarity and seasonal demand. While Bugatti Chiron, Rolls-Royce Ghost, Range Rover Vogue, and Toyota Corolla are the most common models US visitors drive in Dubai, you can try different cars, like Aston Martin DB12, Audi RS3, or Mercedes E-Class for a different taste and experience. These alternatives offer equally amazing driving experiences, ensuring a safe and comfortable environment. Regardless of the car you rent, drive safely, follow the traffic rules, stay vigilant, and abide by your rental agreement at all times for a seamless rental experience in Dubai.