Renting a car in the United Arab Emirates has become one of the most convenient ways to explore the country. Whether you are a tourist landing in Dubai International Airport, a business traveler in Abu Dhabi, or a resident in Ajman searching for cheap car rental, having your own vehicle brings flexibility and freedom.
However, one challenge many renters face is hidden costs. While a rental deal may look cheap upfront, unexpected fees such as mileage limits, Salik (toll charges), extra insurance, and late return penalties can increase your bill dramatically.
In this guide, we’ll cover the most common hidden costs in UAE car rentals and give you clear strategies to avoid them. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to book a car in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, or any other emirate without falling into these traps.
1. Mileage Limits and Extra Charges
Many rental companies in UAE advertise “cheap car rental deals” but only allow limited kilometers per day. Once you cross the limit, you pay per extra kilometer.
- Example: A daily car rental Ajman might include only 200 km. If you drive from Ajman to Abu Dhabi and back, you’ll easily exceed this.
- Extra cost: Between AED 0.30 – AED 1.00 per km, which adds up quickly.
How to avoid it:
- Always confirm if the car comes with unlimited mileage.
- If you plan inter-emirate trips (Dubai to Ras Al Khaimah, Abu Dhabi to Sharjah), unlimited mileage is the best option.
2. Insurance Add-Ons
Car rental companies often include basic insurance, but it may not cover all risks. They may push additional insurance like CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) or theft protection.
- Hidden catch: Some agencies in Dubai or Sharjah may charge AED 50–100 extra per day for insurance.
- Tourist trap: Tourists without UAE driving licenses are sometimes pressured into buying full coverage.
How to avoid it:
- Check what the rental fee already covers.
- If your credit card includes rental insurance, you may not need extra coverage.
- For peace of mind, compare rates from Al Ras Car & Bus Rental and other trusted providers before booking.
3. Salik (Toll) Charges
The UAE has an electronic toll system called Salik in Dubai, with similar systems in other emirates. Each time you pass through a toll gate, the fee (AED 4 in Dubai) is added to your rental bill.
- Hidden catch: Some companies add service charges on top of the actual Salik fee. For instance, AED 6 per toll instead of AED 4.
- Frequent case: Tourists who don’t know about toll gates are surprised by high bills later.
How to avoid it:
- Ask the company if they charge actual Salik rates or add extra.
- Use Google Maps to plan routes with fewer tolls when possible.
4. Security Deposits and Refund Delays
Most UAE car rentals require a deposit (AED 1,000 – AED 3,000) to cover fines or damages. While refundable, many renters complain of delays.
- Hidden catch: Some agencies take 30–40 days to return the deposit, citing RTA fine clearance.
- Problem: This ties up your money long after you return the vehicle.
How to avoid it:
- Rent from companies with clear deposit policies, like Al Ras Car & Bus Rental which explains refund timelines upfront.
- Ask for a receipt when paying deposits.
5. Airport Pickup & Delivery Charges
Booking at Dubai Airport or Abu Dhabi Airport is convenient, but some agencies add hidden pickup or delivery fees.
- Example: An extra AED 50–100 for airport delivery.
- Hidden fee: Even if the booking page doesn’t show it, charges may appear later.
How to avoid it:
- Ask if pickup and drop-off are free.
- For longer rentals (weekly or monthly car rental Dubai), many companies waive delivery charges.
6. Fuel Policy Tricks
Rental agencies in the UAE have different fuel policies. The most common trap is “Full-to-Empty.” You pay for a full tank upfront but may not use it all.
- Hidden catch: No refund for unused fuel.
- Example: If you only drive around Ajman city, you lose money on pre-purchased fuel.
How to avoid it:
- Always go for “Full-to-Full” policy.
- Return the car with the same fuel level to avoid surcharges.
7. Late Return Penalties
Car rental companies in Dubai and Abu Dhabi often charge for late returns. Even being an hour late may lead to a full-day charge.
- Hidden catch: Some agencies don’t provide a grace period.
- Tourist issue: Flight delays often cause unexpected late fees.
How to avoid it:
- Confirm the grace period (usually 1–2 hours).
- If your return is uncertain, choose flexible daily or hourly rental plans.
8. Damage & Cleaning Charges
Minor scratches, sand inside the car, or stained seats can be charged heavily.
- Hidden catch: Even small issues lead to inflated repair bills.
- Desert driving: SUVs used in Dubai desert trips often return sandy, leading to cleaning charges.
How to avoid it:
- Inspect the car before driving off. Take photos of existing scratches.
- Ask upfront about cleaning fees for SUVs or self-drive cars used for desert trips.
9. Extra Driver Fees
If more than one person drives, some companies charge an additional daily fee.
- Hidden catch: Families in Sharjah or Ajman often forget to list the second driver.
- Fee: AED 20–50 per day.
How to avoid it:
- Ask if extra drivers are included in the rental cost.
- Some agencies like Al Ras Car & Bus Rental allow an additional driver at no charge.
FAQs – Renting a Car in UAE Without Hidden Costs
- Q1: What documents are required to rent a car in Dubai or Abu Dhabi?
A valid driving license, Emirates ID (for residents), or passport with visa (for tourists). - Q2: Which is cheaper—daily or monthly car rental?
Monthly rentals in UAE are usually cheaper. A car that costs AED 150/day may only cost AED 2,500/month. - Q3: Are self-drive cars in Dubai safe for tourists?
Yes, self-drive cars are safe. Just ensure you have valid insurance and follow road rules. - Q4: Can I drive across different emirates with a rental car?
From Dubai to Sharjah or Ajman, no restrictions apply, but always check mileage limits. - Q5: What’s the best way to find cheap car rental near me in UAE?
Compare online offers, look for unlimited mileage, and avoid airport pickup charges.
Car rentals in the UAE give freedom and flexibility, but hidden costs can spoil the experience. By paying attention to mileage policies, Salik charges, deposits, insurance, and fuel policies, you can avoid surprise fees.
Whether you need a daily car rental in Ajman, a monthly SUV hire in Dubai, or an airport transfer in Abu Dhabi, choosing a transparent and trusted company like Al Ras Car & Bus Rental ensures a stress-free journey.
