What Not to Do With a Rental Car in Dubai?

What not to do with a rental car in Dubai? There are several activities you cannot do while driving a rental vehicle in the Emirate. Discover them all, stay compliant, and ensure a seamless rental experience.

Dubai offers a plethora of rental cars—from cheap economy sedans and luxurious family SUVs to exclusively rare hypercars—the choices are virtually endless. However, these rental cars are governed by the rental agreement and the UAE traffic regulations, which you must always adhere to for a trouble-free experience.

From not driving outside the UAE to returning your rental on time, understanding the minute aspects of renting a car in Dubai is crucial for an unforgettable hiring experience. Let’s dive in to find what you must stay clear of.

1. Cross-Country Travel

Don’t drive your rental car outside the UAE, like to Oman, without explicit permission. The new cross-country rule doesn't allow rental cars to cross borders due to theft concerns. Hence, rental agreements usually prohibit this. You’ll need extra insurance and paperwork even if the agencies allow it. Crossing borders illegally risks hefty penalties.

Violating this can lead to an AED 5,000 fine and vehicle impoundment for 30 days. UAE's local insurance won’t cover damages abroad, requiring international insurance packages. Always ask the rental company if cross-border driving, like going to Oman from Dubai is possible or not. If not allowed, don't take your rental vehicle cross-border.

2. Off-Roading and Hazardous Terrains

Avoid driving on sand dunes, unpaved desert areas, or flooded roads. Rental contracts ban off-roading unless specified. It damages the car and voids the rental agreement & insurance. You’ll be responsible for all damage repairs as well.

Restricted area off-roadings can trigger an AED 1,500 fine and 6 black points. Floodwater drives risks of engine damage, costing thousands. Check your agreement for allowed terrains. Make sure you stay on the paved lanes — highways and city streets to avoid costly penalties & legal consequences.

3. Driving Under the Influence

Never drive your rental car after consuming alcohol or drugs. The UAE law has zero alcohol tolerance. The nation enforces a strict 0.0% blood alcohol limit. Even a small amount leads to severe consequences. You can risk arrest as a part of DUI consequences.

DUI incurs an AED 20,000 fine, 23 black points, and possible jail time. For all DUIs, insurance becomes invalid, leaving you liable for any accidents or damages. Stay sober to drive safely while staying compliant with the UAE traffic regulations. Protect yourself from legal issues.

4. Incorrect Fuel Usage

The rental agencies clearly give out the fuel type to use before handing out the keys. Don’t use the wrong fuel, like diesel in a petrol car. It causes engine damage. Rental companies hold you responsible for all damage repairs. Always check the fuel type at the pump. If you're unsure, contact the agency for clarification.

Incorrect fuel use can cost AED 5,000–10,000 in repairs. You may face an AED 500 fine for negligence. Confirm the car’s fuel requirements in the beginning. Make sure you select the correct fuel type, like Special 95 or Super 98. Save money on fuel and avoid costly engine breakdowns.

5. Unauthorized Vehicle Modifications

Never modify any rental car. Even acts like adding stickers or tinting windows will lead to serious issues with your rental agency. All rental agreements explicitly prohibit changes without approval. Modifications can damage the vehicle's authenticity. You’ll face repair or penalty fees for any unapproved vehicle modifications.

Unauthorized changes to the vehicle's originality may incur an AED 2,000 fine from the rental company. No car rental insurance will cover damages related to unauthorized modifications. Don't even think of altering your Dubai rental car. Keep it simple and safe.

6. Towing Without Permission

Never tow trailers & boats or another vehicle with your rental car in Dubai, UAE. Rental agreements in Dubai strictly forbid this. It risks damaging the car’s engine and/or transmission. If anything goes wrong & is caught, you’ll face repair costs. The UAE traffic laws consider unauthorized towing illegal.

Police may issue a fine of AED 1,000 + 4 black points, plus potential 7-day impoundment for unregistered towing. Furthermore, your insurance won’t cover damages from illegal towing activities. If you have towing requirements, always check with the rental company first. Avoid financial and legal issues by respecting this widely known rental rule.

7. Illegal or Commercial Use

Never, ever use a Dubai rental car for illegal activities or commercial purposes, like ride-hailing or transport of illegal substances. It not only violates the rental agreement but also challenges the UAE's law and order. You will risk legal action. For any illegal activity,  the Dubai Police will confiscate rental cars, making you liable for all legal processes.

Illegal rental car use can lead to an AED 10,000 fine and 30-day impoundment. Commercial use voids insurance while explicitly triggering rental agreement termination. Stick to personal use only and stay within the law for safety.

8. Reckless Driving and Racing

Street racing is illegal in Dubai and other emirates. Avoid racing, drifting, or reckless driving with your rental car on Dubai's streets. Dubai strictly prohibits these behaviors, citing them as illegal and dangerous. They endanger others and damage the vehicle. You’ll face serious legal consequences with immediate rental termination.

Illegal street racing can incur monetary fines up to AED 100,000 and vehicle impoundment. On the other hand, reckless driving also triggers serious penalties, like AED 2,000, 23 black points on the driver's license, and vehicle impoundment for 60 days. Furthermore, insurance won’t cover damages. Drive responsibly to avoid fines & keep your trip trouble-free.

9. Unauthorized Second Driver

Don’t let unregistered drivers operate your rental car. Only those listed in the agreement are allowed to legally drive a rented car in the UAE. Unauthorized drivers void insurance coverage and possibly terminate agreements. You’ll be liable for any incidents & car damages as the primary renter.

If caught, you face an AED 1,000 fine and potential repair costs. The rental company may penalize you further. Register all drivers upfront. Stay covered and avoid issues.

10. Neglecting Vehicle Cleanliness or Damage

Return your rental car clean and undamaged. Upon return, the rental car must be in the same state as it was when you picked it up. Dirt, stains, or unreported scratches can lead to additional fees from the rental agency. Inspect the vehicle & take video proofs before taking the keys. Do the same while returning to avoid inconveniences with the agency. 

Cleaning fees range from AED 100–500, and repairs can cost thousands. Neglecting damage may lead to disputes. Keep the car tidy and report issues. Document any pre-existing damage to avoid charges & save money on return.

11. Smoking in the Vehicle

Don’t smoke inside your rental car. Almost all rental agencies enforce a strict no-smoking policy, even if it is unclear in the rental agreements. Cigarette odors or burns can lead from cleaning fees to costly interior repairs. You don't want to spend on such aspects of rental. As smoking inside a rental car risks damaging the interior, don't do it — simple.

Smoking can trigger an AED 200–500 cleaning fee from the rental company. Burns may incur hefty repair costs. Use designated smoking areas instead. Keep the car fresh and free.

12. Traffic Rule Violations

The UAE's traffic laws govern the nation's road safety & seamless transport. Make sure you adhere to all the traffic rules while driving in Dubai or other emirates. Don’t break traffic rules, like speeding or using a mobile phone while driving. Dubai enforces rules with enhanced cameras and radars. Violations lead to stringent fines. Always wear seatbelts and stay focused.

Speeding fines start at AED 600, with 6 black points. Mobile phone use costs AED 800 and 4 points. Other traffic violations can lead to severe fines and legal consequences. Make sure you follow all UAE traffic rules to avoid penalties. Drive safely every time.

13. Ignoring Traffic Fines

Make sure you pay all traffic fines incurred during your rental period. Unpaid traffic fines can lead to several issues, ranging up to travel ban. If you have agreed to a security deposit on your credit card, ignoring it leads to charges on your card. Rental companies add administrative fees on top of traffic fines. You can settle any UAE traffic fine with the rental company.

Traffic fines range from AED 100– AED 100,000, depending on the type of violation. Plus AED 50–100 admin fees per fine. Unpaid traffic fines don't simply charge on your credit card; you might face legal consequences if the agency decides to take legal action. You can check for fines via the Dubai Police app and settle them promptly with your agency.

14. Eating or Drinking in the Vehicle

Avoid eating or drinking inside your rental car. Spills, crumbs, or odors can lead to cleaning fees. They may also attract pests. Keep the car spotless to avoid trouble.

Cleaning fees for spills range from AED 100–300. Stains could cost more to fix. Eat outside the car to stay safe. Save money and keep it clean. If you eat or drink inside the car, make sure you have it professionally cleaned before returning it.

15. Improper Parking

Never park your rental in restricted or non-designated areas in Dubai. Illegal parking risks fines or towing, which can ruin your rental experience. Dubai enforces strict parking rules and more stringent fines for parking violations. Always use paid or designated spots to stay compliant.

Illegal Dubai parking fines start at AED 500, with possible towing fees of AED 1,000. Check signs and use RTA parking zones. Ensure you adhere to all the Dubai parking regulations & avoid fines & towing surprises.

16. Leaving Valuables Visible

Never leave valuables visible in your rental car. Items like phones or bags attract thieves. Break-ins lead to costly repairs. You’ll be responsible for any damage or loss.

Theft-related repairs can cost AED 1,000–5,000. Police fines for negligence may apply. Store valuables in the trunk or hotel. Protect your belongings and avoid hassles.

17. Offensive Behavior While Driving

Don’t use offensive gestures or language while driving. Dubai considers this a serious offense. It can lead to legal trouble if the other party makes it a legal issue. Stay calm and respectful to avoid issues. Always practice defensive driving on the Emirates roads.

Offensive behavior incurs an AED 1,000 fine and 6 black points. You may face police questioning & court sessions if serious, like continuous honking or flashing headlights rigorously. Drive courteously to stay safe. Keep your trip drama-free.

18. Fuel Policy Non-Compliance

Return your rental car with the agreed fuel level, usually full. Failing to do so incurs refueling fees. Check the rental agreement’s fuel policy. Plan refueling before returning.

Refueling fees range from AED 50–200, plus fuel costs. Some companies charge extra for convenience. Fill up at a nearby station. Avoid unexpected charges on return. As simple as it seems, the fuel policy in Dubai car rental is very crucial.

19. Exceeding Mileage Limits

Don’t exceed the mileage limit in your rental agreement. Extra kilometers lead to additional fees, which can be expensive depending on the rented car. Track your usage daily, weekly, or monthly per your rental agreement. Never out drive the allotted mileage limit. Ask the rental company to add more limits before you require additional mileage.

Excess mileage fees are AED 20-100 per kilometer. High-end cars cost even more. Monitor your driving to stay within limits. Save money by planning your routes. Don't shy away from requesting more limits whenever necessary.

20. Mishandling Accidents

Accidents are a possibility on Dubai's buzzing roads. If you are in such an unfortunate situation, don’t move your rental car after an accident until police arrive. Report accidents to police and the rental company immediately. Failing to do so violates UAE law.

Moving the car can lead to an AED 2,000 fine and 6 black points. Unreported accidents void insurance, adding more pressure to your expenses. Call 999 and notify the rental company instantly to avoid legal complications. Never try to mishandle the Dubai accidents as you will be caught.

21. Failing to Return on Time with Original Documents or Accessories

Make sure you return your rental car on an agreed-upon timeline. Rental agencies might allow you an hour or two if you're caught up in traffic. Don't go past that buffer time, else you will pay for the whole additional day. Furthermore, you should return the rental car with original documents, keys, and accessories, like GPS or chargers. Losing them incurs replacement fees. Check all the elements of the car before returning. Ensure everything is included.

Lost key fees range from AED 500–2,000, and documents may cost AED 100–300. Missing items delay deposit refunds. Double-check the car on return. Avoid extra charges.

Final Thoughts

Renting a car in Dubai is an excellent way to explore the emirate's vast offerings, providing unparalleled freedom and convenience. However, this convenience is built on a foundation of responsible conduct and strict adherence to a few key regulations.

By understanding what not to do with a rental car in Dubai—from adhering to traffic laws and avoiding reckless behavior to respecting the terms of your rental agreement—you proactively minimize the risk of fines, legal issues, and unforeseen complications. This knowledge is not merely a list of restrictions; it is a guide to a seamless and secure driving experience.

Ultimately, a professional and hassle-free rental journey in Dubai is within your control. Approach your rental with this foundational understanding, and you can focus on enjoying the journey, not worrying about the destination. Don’t forget to share your rental experiences to help our fellow readers in the comments.