How to Hire a Car for One-Way Trips from Dubai to Other Emirates

Planning a Dubai adventure that extends to other Emirates like Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, and Ras Al Khaimah? A one-way rental is your ideal solution. Enjoy the ultimate flexibility of picking up your rental at Dubai Airport (DXB) or your hotel in Dubai Marina—and dropping it off at your destination, whether at Zayed Airport (AUH) or Sharjah Airport (SHJ). Pick-up and drop-off rentals with utmost convenience. This blog guides you through seven essential steps to seamlessly hire a car for one-way trips from Dubai to Other Emirates: Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, or beyond. Plus, we've included a bonus section with valuable traveler insights and FAQs to ensure a smooth journey. Let's get started!

How to hire a car for one-way trips from Dubai to other emirates (Sharjah, Abu Dhabi):

1. Select a Trusted Rental Provider

2. Verify One-Way Policies and Fees

3. Gather Required Documents

4. Book Early for Best Rates

5. Understand Insurance and Costs

6. Plan Your Route and Driving Tips

7. Inspect and Drop Off Smoothly

Step 1: Select a Trusted Rental Provider

Picking a reputable car rental agency ensures a stress-free rental experience. Most international companies, like Avis, Europcar, and Hertz can be your go-to choices. However, well-known local agencies, like FriendsCarRental can be top alternatives, considering cheaper rental rates and exceptional customer service.

Thoroughly compare several top local and international agencies. Pay close attention to their fleets, price ranges, and customer reviews. Crucially, confirm they explicitly offer one-way rentals with drop-off services to any of the seven Emirates—Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, Umm Al Quwain, and Fujairah. Be aware that one-way drop-off fees can vary.

You can use platforms like KAYAK and Rentalcars.com for detailed comparisons. Additionally, consider other rental services & features, like rental without deposit, payment in installments flexibility, and 24/7 emergency roadside assistance. These often differentiate agencies and can significantly enhance your overall travel experience.

Step 2: Verify One-Way Policies and Fees

Verifying one-way rental policies and their related fees is your primary task. Make sure you understand the policies very well. Inquiring about them via phone, WhatsApp, or email can clarify and verify your initial understanding. The pricings vary from one agency to another, along with their drop-off and pick-up fees.

Drop-off fees can typically range from AED 100-300, depending on car types and distance. Airport surcharges may come into play as well—stay aware! Besides one-way policies and fees, you must also understand other policies, like overage mileage policy, fuel policy, late return policy, smoking in the car policy, off-road driving policy, and their violation penalties.

Ensure you learn about every Dubai car rental policy and related pricing for violations. Stay informed and insightful to avoid hidden charges and surprises. Remember, asking questions is the key to getting clear answers and a transparent rental experience.

Step 3: Gather Required Documents

After you clarify the rental-related policies and pricing structures, you must inquire about the requirements. These will typically include age, documents, and payment methods. Most rental agencies have the same fundamental requirements, but always confirm with your chosen agency.

Agencies generally demand tourists for their driver’s license, passport, visa copy, and IDP (international driver’s license), if the license is not valid in the UAE. People with driver’s licenses from the USA, UK, EU, Canada, Australia, and GCC don’t need an IDP.  UAE residents only need their Emirates ID and UAE driver’s license. The general age requirement is at least 21 years. However, it may vary with agency policies, some agencies requiring 25 years for luxury and sports car rentals in Dubai.

For payment, most agencies accept cash payment (AED, EUR, USD, AUD, GBP, CHF, SGD, OMR, SAR, QAR, KWD, etc.). Credit cards, debit cards, e-Wallets (Apple Pay & Google Pay), and bank transfers. Car rental payments in cryptocurrencies are also gradually becoming more acceptable. However, check with your agency first.

Gather all the required documents per the rental agency's demand and move on to the booking step.

Step 4: Book Early for Best Rates

When arranging your one-way rental, precision is key. Clearly tell the booking agent your desired car, like a Mercedes E-Class, and specify your one-way journey from Dubai Airport (DXB) to Zayed International Airport (AUH) in Abu Dhabi. Provide exact details: your rental duration, your pick-up time at DXB, and your intended drop-off time at AUH. Every small detail counts when securing a car, especially for one-way trips, as it directly impacts availability and pricing.

Before you confirm, clarify the agency's flexibility regarding your booking. Ask about their amendment policies for last-minute changes, their cancellation procedures, and how you can extend your rental period if needed. Understanding these terms upfront will prevent surprises. Once you're comfortable with their policies, provide the necessary documents (as prepared in the previous step) and confirm your reservation.

A credit card is often required for advanced bookings, typically as a security measure. While some agencies offer alternatives, this is a common practice. Regardless of the payment method, always aim to book your rental at least a week or two in advance. This proactive step almost guarantees you'll secure cheaper rates and a wider selection of vehicles. It also provides valuable time to adjust your booking if your travel plans change unexpectedly.

Step 5: Understand Insurance and Costs

Though not a mandatory part of Dubai car rental, incorporating rental policies is a very good practice to safeguard yourself and other parties against potential accidents, damages, and injuries. Car rental insurance policies are your financial safety nets while renting a car in Dubai or anywhere in the world.

Usually, rental agencies offer a Third-Party Liability Insurance (TPL), as an RTA-mandatory aspect, which covers damages to other vehicles or property. For protection against damage to your rental car, you'll typically be offered a Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or Loss Damage Waiver (LDW), for which you need to pay a premium for specified days, weeks, or months. Upon request, agencies will arrange your preferred insurance from their own packages or third-party insurance companies. Typically, you cannot purchase rental car insurance by yourself in the Emirates; it's usually acquired through the agency.

If you think you might need additional insurance, you must understand their coverage and pricing clearly, including any deductibles or excess amounts. Insurance policy costs will vary as well, depending on providers and agencies. It is also possible that agencies charge extra administrative fees, even for insured incidents. Make sure you understand these intricate details as well. We recommend you subscribe to a comprehensive policy if you’re driving in Dubai for the first time, for maximum peace of mind.

Step 6: Plan Your Route and Driving Tips

Upon your arrival in Dubai, the agency will deliver your car to the initially set pick-up point. Before driving off, take your time to thoroughly inspect the vehicle, capturing time-stamped videos and photos of its current condition. Make sure you cover all parts (inside and out) in detail, documenting any existing dents, scratches, or other damages. This meticulous record helps you avoid false accusations and potential disputes over damage repair costs later. Also, confirm the fuel level matches the agreement.

The delivery agent will present an agreement for you to sign. Carefully go through the document to ensure you understand all the terms and conditions. Ask any questions you have before signing, as this is a legally binding contract.

Once the formalities are complete, it's time to map out your journey, whether to your hotel, office, or directly to your destination in another Emirate. Utilize top navigation apps like Google Maps and Waze for convenience and real-time traffic updates. While you can try to avoid Salik (toll) gates with alternative routes (each crossing costs AED 4), be mindful that bypassing them might significantly increase your travel time, especially on one-way trips between Emirates. It's often more practical to factor these into your journey.

Throughout your drive, always adhere to all RTA traffic laws, from observing speed limits to following lane discipline and stopping at red lights. Practice defensive driving, maintain a safe distance from other vehicles (don't tailgate), and ensure you always carry your driver's license and rental agreement. Drive within the outlines of your rental agreement and park only in designated areas to avoid fines. Be aware that rush hours, typically from 6 AM to 9 AM and 4 PM to 8 PM on weekdays, can significantly impact travel times.

Make insightful and informed decisions while driving. Prioritize safety, avoid rush hours where possible, plan your routes well, and allot ample time for a stress-free driving experience. Your safety, and that of others, is paramount when driving in the Emirates.

Step 7: Inspect and Drop Off Smoothly

Conclude your rental period with a timely drop-off at your predetermined location. If dropping off during office hours, a rental agency agent will typically be present to assist you. For after-hour returns, you'll need to follow the agency's specific, pre-agreed arrangements for leaving the car and keys.

Before handing over the vehicle, perform a final thorough inspection of the car's interior and exterior. Just like at pick-up, take time-stamped photos and videos to document its condition at drop-off. Remember your fuel policy from Step 2—ensure the fuel tank is at the agreed-upon level (usually full) to avoid refueling charges. It's also highly advisable to clean the car well before drop-off; never leave a dirty car. Clear all your personal belongings, from under the seats to the glove compartment. Returning the car in a clean condition can help you avoid potential cleaning fees, which typically range from AED 200-500.

Drop-off procedures can vary between agencies. Some local agencies, especially away from airports, may not have designated drop-off counters and will provide specific instructions for a hassle-free return. International agencies, on the other hand, commonly have airport counters and designated parking spots where you can conveniently leave the car.

For local agencies that require it, an agent will meet you at the drop-off point to conduct the final check, settle any immediate payments, and collect the car key. Regardless of the agency type, submitting the keys, clearing any remaining dues, traffic fines, Salik, and parking charges (some of which may be billed to your card later) marks the end of your rental. Following the pre-agreed return process will make your drop-off a seamless and stress-free experience.

Traveler Insights and FAQs

1. How much does a one-way car rental from Dubai to another Emirate typically cost?

The general cost of a one-way car rental from Dubai to another Emirate (Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, or else) depends on the agency, car type, and the distance between the pick-up and drop-off locations. Abu Dhabi will certainly cost more than Sharjah as the final destination from Dubai. You must expect an additional drop-off charge, around AED 100-500. Always confirm these prices while booking.

2. How far in advance should I book a one-way car rental in Dubai?

It’s a good practice to book a one-way car rental in Dubai at least a few weeks in advance. This offers cheaper rental rates and more car selection options. It also enables you to make necessary booking changes and cancellations if required.

3. Are there any restrictions on the type of car I can rent for a one-way trip?

Typically, there are no restrictions on any car type for one-way trip rentals. Most agencies allow you to rent cars of your choice, from SUVs to sedans and economy to luxury. However, different agency policies outline different limitations. It’s best to get the factual information from the specific agency you want to rent from.

4. What happens if my travel plans change and I need to modify my one-way drop-off location or time?

If your travel plans shift, modifying your one-way drop-off location or time is generally possible, but it's crucial to confirm the specific terms with your rental agency. While most agencies allow changes until a few hours before pick-up or drop-off, altering the one-way drop-off location, especially at the last minute or to a significantly different Emirate, may incur additional charges or depend on vehicle availability at the new location. For cancellations, agencies typically offer free cancellation 24 to 48 hours before pick-up; otherwise, last-minute cancellations usually incur charges. Always contact your rental provider as soon as possible to discuss any modifications.

5. How are traffic fines and Salik (toll) charges handled for one-way rentals?

Generally, traffic fines and Salik/toll charges are deducted from the security deposits. For agencies that do not take security deposits, these charges are typically billed to your credit card on file after the rental. While rental agency agents will be present at the drop-off location for car inspections, the collection of all dues like fines and Salik may occur post-rental. If immediate payment is required, demand a payment slip as proof.

Conclusion

Hiring a one-way rental from Dubai to other Emirates, such as Sharjah or Ras Al Khaimah, can be a seamless process when approached with preparation. However, the successful execution hinges on several crucial factors: the selection of a reputable agency, a clear understanding of rental policies and pricing structures, meticulous booking procedures, gathering all necessary documents, and strategic pick-ups and drop-offs. It's vital not to underestimate the importance of seemingly small details, including insurance, potential hidden fees, Salik charges, and traffic violations and fines, as overlooking these can significantly impact your travel experience. Drive safe, stay informed, and remain insightful to ensure a truly stress-free one-way trip from Dubai to your preferred Emirate in the UAE.