Dubai is a global destination, hosting over 80 million passengers annually. Tourists from various walks of life and ages troop in to explore and immerse themselves in the authentic Arabian culture. The misinformation and uncertainty around the required age for renting a car in Dubai is overwhelmingly putting fear on the path of many car lovers. After reading this, you will find out the actual rental age.
What is the minimum age for a driver in Dubai?
People often ask, “What is the minimum age for driving in the UAE?” This frequent question has put several people on hold, waiting for a definite answer. Today, we will clear the way. The Road and Transport Authority of the UAE has been pushed many times to reduce the driving age to 16, but they seem not to give in yet. The minimum age to drive a car in the Emirates is 18 for cars and light vehicles, 20 for heavy vehicles and tractors, and 21 for buses.
What is the minimum age for renting a car in Dubai?
Renting a car has many benefits, but it also requires a lot of attention and purpose. Although you can drive in the UAE at age 18, you can only be eligible for a car hire at age 21. It is not 25, as widely speculated. Additionally, the rental company might have age limits for some specific cars or impose its age limit.
Must Read: Rent A Car Without Deposit in Dubai
Can I Drive With My Home Driving Permit?
The UAE allows citizens from specific countries to drive without constraints with their home country's driving license issued by the government. So, you must cross-check if your country is on the list. If it is not on the list, you will need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in UAE.
Driving licenses from countries including Austria, Italy, Romania, Australia, Japan, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Belgium, Latvia, Singapore, Canada (Quebec), Lithuania, Slovakia, China, Luxembourg, South Africa, Denmark, Netherlands (Holland), South Korea, Finland, New Zealand, Spain, France, Norway, Sweden, Germany, Oman, Switzerland, Greece, Poland, Turkey, Hungary, Portugal, United Kingdom (UK), Hong, Kong, Qatar, United States of America (USA), Ireland are valid to drive a car in UAE.
Restrictions: Full Driving Permit
Before you can rent a car, you must have a full driving permit, not a learner’s permit in the UAE. Their requirements and restrictions are lenient, giving you the chance to easily meet them. Additionally, most rental companies prefer your license to be at least six months old. It might differ; some agencies might not mind.
Extra Documents
Aside from providing the driving permit, other required documents include a passport with a valid visa, home country driving license, and, in most cases, an international driving permit. Visitors or tourists must provide these, and residents required to provide their Emirates ID and a valid driving license.