Abu Dhabi Airport Car Rental Guide: Documents, Car Options and Booking Tips

The feeling of excitement while visiting a new city is always overwhelming; however, organizing yourself regarding the travel from the airport to your hotel or business meetings and holiday destinations can be complicated. Therefore, if you plan to visit the UAE capital, it can be helpful to learn about your transport opportunities beforehand. The below Abu Dhabi Airport Car Rental Guide: Documents, Car Options and Booking Tips will be useful in preparing for your car rental in Abu Dhabi.

Abu Dhabi is famous for its modern infrastructure, coastal roads, attractions, and business districts. Although, there are various taxi and transport options, renting a car will allow you to visit different places and organize your trip independently. Whether you are coming for business or holiday purposes, it can be convenient to travel around with your own vehicle.

Why Renting a Car at Abu Dhabi Airport Is a Good Idea

Zayed International Airport, which was formerly known as Abu Dhabi International Airport, is considered one of the UAE's biggest airports. Travellers can use multiple means of transport upon arrival to the place, including taxi, bus, and vehicle rental.

However, if your travel to the country involves multiple journeys to various locations, using a rental car can be a good solution. Thus, you will not have to arrange separate transports to the airport, different sightseeing places, shopping malls, etc., and use one vehicle during your whole stay in the place.

Advantages of Airport Car Rental

1. Convenience after Arrival

Collecting the vehicle you have booked or using airport pickup car rental services can save you some time. You will be able to start your trip immediately after completing all the paperwork and the car inspection process.

2. Flexibility to Explore

There are numerous sights in Abu Dhabi such as Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and Louvre Abu Dhabi, Yas Island and Saadiyat Island. Travelling around with your car can make your sightseeing easier.

3. Comfortable Family Trip

Families with children and a lot of luggage, strollers or shopping bags can benefit from renting a private vehicle instead of booking taxis constantly.

4. Greater Control Over the Cost of Your Travelling

Depending on the duration of your rent, the distance travelled, parking fees, etc., renting a car can be cheaper than taking taxis every day.

Documents Required to Rent a Car at Abu Dhabi Airport

One of the key steps in the process of renting a vehicle is making sure that you have all the necessary documents. The documents you should prepare depend on whether you are a resident of the UAE or an international tourist and the country that has issued your driving licence.

For UAE Residents

UAE residents usually should prepare:

• A valid UAE driving licence
• Emirates ID
• The card to pay the rent
• Other documents that are needed by the rental company.

In addition to the documents mentioned above, some companies can require from their clients to meet the minimum age or the minimum driving experience requirements.

For International Tourists

International tourists should prepare:

A valid passport

A valid UAE visa or a document that allows you to enter the UAE (if required)

A driving licence issued in your country

An International Driving Permit (IDP) (if required)

Payment cards that can be used to pay the rent and make a deposit

Depending on the nationality of the traveller, his/her residency and UAE rules, some foreign driving licenses are recognized without IDP and some foreign driving licenses are recognized only with IDP. Travellers should check their eligibility of using the license in the UAE and the need in the IDP before their departure rather than assume that every foreign license is acceptable in the UAE.

Minimum Age Requirements

The most rental companies require minimum age of 21 years old from their clients, although, the age limit can differ depending on the vehicle category. In addition, there might be some additional fees for the young drivers and/or minimum age requirement.

Checking these requirements before booking your car can prevent you from problems with the car rental.

Car Rental Options Available at Abu Dhabi Airport

Different people have different demands, so the right vehicle will depend on your traveling purpose, the number of passengers in your group, luggage amount, budget, and your driving preferences. There is a wide variety of vehicle categories to choose in Abu Dhabi.

1. Economy Cars for Economical Travel

Economy cars are suitable for solo travels, couples and those visitors who need a car for travel in the city.

These cars are easier to park, use less fuel and cost less per day than bigger cars.

Economy cars are suitable for short business trips, sightseeing and travellers with the limited luggage.

2. Sedans for Economical and Comfortable Travel

Sedans can be considered as a middle option. These cars are cheap enough and give an opportunity for comfortable travels and luggage carrying.

Sedan can be used for comfortable traveling between the hotel, office, restaurant, and main attractions of the city. This car is also suitable for those travellers who plan some trips outside of the city.

3. SUVs for Groups and Families

Those who travel with children or carry multiple suitcases can choose SUVs.

These cars have more luggage volume and higher seating position than regular cars. However, it should be noted that luggage volume differs greatly among different vehicles depending on how many people are sitting in the car.

Therefore, it is better to check the volume and seating of the car.

4. Luxury Cars for Businesspeople and Holidaymakers

Abu Dhabi is a favourite place for the corporate executives and holidaymakers. Therefore, it is possible to choose a premium sedan or luxurious SUV in order to feel comfortable and get additional opportunities.

Premium and luxury cars usually cost more, have additional requirements to the client and additional insurance excess. Therefore, it is worth reading rental conditions carefully.

5. Monthly Rentals for Extended Stay

If you plan to spend several weeks in Abu Dhabi, it is better to choose the monthly rental package instead of constant extension of the daily bookings.

It will suit for professionals who are working in Abu Dhabi for some period, families who are moving to the country, etc.

The comparison of the cost of the package, the mileage limit, insurance, maintenance, etc. is important while choosing the vehicle for long-term period.

How to Book a Rental Car at Abu Dhabi Airport

Making a booking in advance can help you to reserve your preferable vehicle category and familiarize with the rental conditions before your trip.

Step 1: Choose Your Travel Dates

Specify your arrival date, pickup time and the return date. Do not forget to allocate time for immigration procedures, baggage collection and delays in the flights.

Step 2: Choose Your Vehicle Category

Choose a vehicle according to the passenger and luggage volume, the places to visit and your budget.

Do not pick the vehicle only according to the lowest cost in the list. Maybe, a slightly bigger car will fit for a family with several suitcases.

Step 3: Read the Rental Conditions

Before booking the car, it is important to read carefully all the conditions of the rental: the mileage limit, the fuel policy, insurance, the amount of deposit, cancellation terms, additional-driver fees, etc.

Also, check whether there is a fee for airport pickup or delivery of the car.

Step 4: Fill In Your Booking Form

Provide all the required information such as personal information and driving licence data. If the company offers flight tracking or airport coordination, it is better to specify the flight number.

Step 5: Inspect the Vehicle

At the time of collecting the car, it is necessary to inspect the car exterior and interior, wheels, fuel level and all the indicators in the car.

Also, it is important to photograph any scratch or dent that is present in the car and indicate it in the car condition report.

In addition, it is worth checking the phone number for emergencies and the roadside assistance procedure.

Understanding Abu Dhabi Airport Car Rental Costs

The costs of rental depend on the vehicle category, the rental period, the booking season, the insurance chosen, etc.

Generally, economy cars cost less than the SUVs and luxury vehicles. Weekly and monthly booking usually costs less per day, although, it can be different according to the company.

While comparing the cost of rental, it is important to look at the cost of the whole package and not only at the advertised daily rate.

Additional Charges to Check

Security Deposit

Many companies require the renter to pay the refundable deposit for the rent in order to cover some possible additional charges. The amount, the method of payment and the refund procedure should be clarified.

Insurance Excess

Some companies include basic insurance, but you can be responsible for a certain amount in case of damages.

Mileage Limit

Some packages include unlimited mileage, while other companies can charge you additional fee if you will go farther than agreed.

Fuel Charges

Depends on the policy of the company, if you return the vehicle with less fuel than it was required, you can face the refueling fee.

Parking and Tolls

Parking fees, road tolls and traffic fines are usually paid additionally to the base price. Also, there can be additional administrative charges.

All these charges should be clear before the payment according to the rental agreement.

Essential Booking Tips to Have a Great Rental Experience

Several useful precautions can help you to rent a car easier.

Book Early During Busy Travel Periods

The number of available cars can be limited during holidays, events and busy seasons, so it is better to book your car earlier.

Check Your Airport Pickup Place

There is a rental center in the Zayed International Airport on the level 1 above arrivals. However, each rental company can have its own pickup place. In addition, some companies can have delivery or meeting point instead of the counter pickup.

Follow the information in your booking confirmation.

Check the Cancellation Policy

The plans and flights can change, so before making a payment, it is important to clarify the conditions of cancellation and modification of the rental.

Choose Insurance Carefully

It is important to clarify the conditions of insurance in order to know what kind of coverage you have. Clarify the coverage of the collision damage, theft protection, tyre damage, windscreen damage and roadside assistance.

The additional insurance will protect you financially; however, the conditions of insurance should be known before purchasing it.

Understand the Rules of Driving in Abu Dhabi

The roads in the city are good, but the driver has to keep all the speed limits, traffic lights, lane markings and parking rules.

Using the navigation applications, being careful on the road, being attentive at the intersections and highway exits is necessary.

Popular Places to Visit With a Rental Car

A car can be very helpful for exploration of Abu Dhabi.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

This is one of the main sights in the city, known for its outstanding architecture and tranquil atmosphere.

Yas Island

One of the biggest entertainment zones in Abu Dhabi, featuring theme parks, restaurants, shopping centers and leisure facilities.

Louvre Abu Dhabi

The cultural landmark on Saadiyat Island with the unique architecture and art collections.

Abu Dhabi Corniche

This is one of the most visited locations in Abu Dhabi as it is located on the waterfront and has picturesque views.

Al Ain

Visitors who have enough time for exploring more can plan a trip to this city.

Before going to the location, check the parking availability, operating hours of the attraction and the approximate travel time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Renting a Car

One of the mistakes is booking a car without checking whether the driver's license is acceptable in the UAE. Even if the license is confirmed online, the problem can appear if the necessary documents are not provided.

Another mistake is not reading the rental agreement thoroughly. Travellers sometimes look at the price only and do not read the restrictions on the mileage, deposit, insurance, etc.

Returning the car after the expiration of the rental period can also cause some additional charges. Therefore, it is important to know about the grace period of your rental company and return procedure, especially if your departure flight is in the morning.

Also, it is important to check the car at the time of pickup and return and record all the scratches and dents in order to avoid disputes.

Conclusion

Car renting from Zayed International Airport will definitely facilitate the trip in Abu Dhabi especially if there are several places that you are going to visit, business meetings, or family plans during the time you spend there. If you have the necessary documentation, proper car and the knowledge of the rental conditions then you can feel much more freedom during your trip.

When you decide to rent a car at Abu Dhabi airport, you should think about different aspects that may influence the cost and convenience of the process. It is important to compare the types of cars available, the insurance and mileage, the way the car can be picked up. Depending on whether you are going to drive through the city or go on vacation with your family, you can choose a small sedan or a large SUV.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1: Which documents are required to rent a car at Abu Dhabi Airport?

Answer: For UAE residents, a valid UAE driving licence, Emirates ID and a credit card are usually required. For international tourists, a valid passport, driving licence and the International Driving Permit where required are usually sufficient. Additional documents will depend on the rental company and the customer's eligibility.

Question 2: Are tourists allowed to rent a car at Abu Dhabi Airport?

Answer: Yes. If the tourist meets all the requirements regarding age, identification, driving licence and payment, he/she is allowed to do so. The visitor needs to find out if his/her country driving licence is acceptable or an International Driving Permit is required.

Question 3: What is the minimum age for car rentals at Abu Dhabi?

Answer: The general minimum rental age in the UAE is 21 years old. In case of some premium or luxury vehicle categories, the requirement may be raised to 25. Additional terms may apply from individual rental agencies.

Question 4: Do I need to book an airport car rental in advance?

Answer: Advance booking is recommended, since it gives you the opportunity to select the vehicle type and check the terms and conditions of the car rental in advance.

Question 5: Can I rent a car at Abu Dhabi Airport without a credit card?

Answer: There may be car rental providers accepting other types of payment; however, it is more likely that a credit card is needed for the security deposit.