Hertz in United Arab Emirates
The UAE is probably best known for being home to Dubai but there’s much more to this fantastic holiday destination and a car is the best way to explore everything it has to offer the more adventurous traveller. Dubai makes a great base from which to explore the many attractions that UAE has and its shopping, nightlife and hotels are second to none.
Off the beaten track you’ll discover hidden treasures such as ancient mosques, historical forts, national parks and much much more. UAE is very much a country of ancient and modern contrasts, with its largely unchanged rural farming villages sitting next to ultra-modern 6-star hotels, and bone dry deserts to plush beach locations.
There are 15 Hertz locations across UAE. 10 of these are spread across Dubai and Northern Emirates and 5 locations are in the Abu Dhabi Region. Each Airport in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah has Hertz presence.
Hertz makes it easy for you to rent a car online in Dubai and across the UAE. Book your car today through our website, or visit one of our many branches.
Rules and Regulations for Driving in UAE
UAE has a top notch road network with some of its highways boasting 10 or more lanes. However, the local driving standards often don’t match the quality of the roads and with a population consisting of around 80% ex-pats, there is a variety of opinions on how to drive, particularly in the main urban areas such as Dubai.
What are the speed limits in Dubai?
The speed limit on the main motorways and highways will be either 100kph or 120kph. Within cities the main roads usually have a limit of 80kph but you’ll need to keep an eye on the road signs because this can vary. Within built-up areas the limit is usually 40kph.
Important information for driving in Dubai:
- If you see a stationary school bus then you should stop until it moves off again.
- Because UAE is expanding so rapidly, its rules and regulations are changing all the time and this applies to its laws on driving as well so before you set off it’s well worth checking out the local rules.
- In order to rent a car you’ll need a valid photo licence and you may also need an International Driving Permit depending on your country of origin. You will need to keep all of your papers (passport, licence and rental agreement) with you at all times.
- Drivers in UAE drive on the right and children under 13 are not allowed to sit in the passenger seat. Children between 4 and 8 must use a booster seat. All passengers should wear their seat belts and if you want to use your phone while at the wheel, you’ll need a hands free kit.
- Trams are common in UAE and they take precedence over cars and other road vehicles so be aware of them and make sure you give way to them.
Top Cities In UAE
Hertz Airport Locations UAE
Driving in and around UAE
Special attractions
There are many very wealthy people in UAE and it is absolutely packed full of supercars. Walk down any street in central Dubai or Abu Dhabi and you’ll spot Bentleys, Bugattis and Ferraris so it’s a great holiday destination for car enthusiasts.
Ferarri World in Abu Dhabi is the only Ferrari-themed park and the biggest indoor park in the world. It also features the world’s fastest roller coaster, Formula Rossa.
In 2015 Ferrari World was voted the leading tourist attraction in the Middle East at the World Travel Awards.
Quick Information
- Minimum car rental age: For most car types you need to be 21 or over. Certain makes and models require you to be 25 or over.
- Average speed limits: The speed limit on highways and motorways is either 100kph or 120kph. Main roads in cities have a limit of 80kph and in built-up areas it is 40kph.
Driving in UAE
Drive on the right and pass on the left but don’t assume that everyone else will stick to this rule.
If you don’t wish to drive in UAE, or are unable to, Hertz also offers a Chauffeur-Drive service.
Licence requirements
Driving licences from certain countries are valid in UAE, these are: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Great Britain, Ireland, Italy, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Romania, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and United States of America.
Drivers from all other countries will need an International Driving Permit.
Licences must have been held for at least one year.
Tolls and fees
There are several crossing points in UAE that incur a charge and these will automatically be added to your bill at the end of your hire period.
Driving with children
Seats for very small children aren’t compulsory in UAE but it is highly recommended that you use one anyway and they are available to hire from Hertz car rental branches. Children between 4 and 8 need to be on a booster seat and those under 13 are not allowed to sit in the front of the vehicle.