If you are visiting Dubai and plan to rent a car, check the documents before you compare price. The rental company makes the final eligibility decision, so the live offer and supplier requirements matter more than a generic checklist.
Documents to prepare
As a practical official reference, Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority lists a passport, entry visa and a driving licence accepted in the UAE for visitors using one of its vehicle-rental/car-sharing services. A conventional rental company can apply additional checks depending on nationality, licence type, age and its own policy.
- A valid passport.
- A valid entry visa or entry record when applicable.
- An original driving licence accepted for use in the UAE.
- Any additional document requested by the rental company.
Do you need an International Driving Permit?
That depends on the licence you hold and whether it is recognised for driving in the UAE. Do not assume every foreign licence is automatically accepted. Confirm the requirement with the rental company before booking, especially if you are unsure whether your home licence needs an International Driving Permit.
Match the documents to the main driver
The person collecting the car should have documents that match the booking details. If you need an additional driver, check whether the offer permits one and what documents that driver must provide.
Review the offer, not only the paperwork
Before you request the car, review pickup location, rate, rental duration, mileage, fuel, insurance or security-deposit information when disclosed, plus delivery availability when offered.
Start with live Dubai inventory
Use the Dubai car rental page to choose your dates, compare current vehicles and open the offer details. A request remains pending until the rental company accepts it.
Official reference
For an official example of visitor documentation in an RTA vehicle-rental service, see the RTA service page. The requirements of the rental company you choose remain the final booking reference.