Car Rental Dubai Airport: How to Get a Car When You Land
Planning to rent a car at Dubai Airport? Learn how airport delivery works, what to arrange before you fly, the documents you need and how to avoid surprises with fuel, tolls and kilometres.
3 min read
Landing in Dubai and want to drive straight to your hotel, home or meeting? Renting a car at Dubai Airport saves you the taxi queue and gives you the freedom to explore the city and the rest of the UAE from the first day. Here is how to arrange it the easy way.
Which airports does Dubai have?
Dubai has two international airports. Dubai International Airport (DXB) is the main one, with Terminals 1, 2 and 3, and it is close to the city centre. Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) at Dubai World Central is further south, near Expo City Dubai and the road to Abu Dhabi. Tell the rental company exactly which airport and terminal you arrive at.
How does airport car delivery work?
Many rental companies on ClicknDrive can deliver the car to the airport. You agree the details on WhatsApp before you fly, and a member of the company meets you at arrivals with the car, checks your documents and hands over the keys. When your rental ends, the company can collect the car at the airport again before your flight home. Each car page shows whether the company offers delivery — ask about the airport, timing and any delivery charge.
What should I arrange before I fly?
- Choose the car on ClicknDrive and message the company on WhatsApp.
- Send your flight number, arrival date and time, and the terminal.
- Agree on the price, the rental period, the kilometres included and the deposit, if any.
- Ask what happens if your flight is delayed, and save the company's WhatsApp number.
What documents do I need at the airport?
Bring your passport and a valid driving licence. Visitors from many countries can drive in the UAE with their home licence, while others need an International Driving Permit — the company will tell you what applies to you. UAE residents need a UAE driving licence and their Emirates ID. Companies that take a security deposit usually ask for a credit or debit card for it.
Do I need to pay a security deposit?
It depends on the company. Some companies rent cars without a deposit, while others take a refundable security deposit. The car page shows which applies, and when the deposit is returned depends on the rental company's policy.
What should I check when I collect the car?
Walk around the car with the company and take photos of any marks before you drive away. Check the fuel level, make sure you know how to reach the company, and confirm the return time and place. Most companies expect the car back with the same fuel level.
Tips for driving from the airport
- Dubai's main roads, such as Sheikh Zayed Road, have Salik toll gates. Tolls and traffic fines are usually added after the rental.
- Keep to the speed limits — they are clearly signed and enforced by cameras.
- If you plan long trips, such as Dubai to Abu Dhabi, choose a car with enough kilometres or unlimited mileage.
Is it cheaper to rent a car at Dubai Airport or in the city?
Prices are set by each rental company. Airport delivery is sometimes free and sometimes has a small charge, so compare the total price with the company on WhatsApp. Renting for a week or a month usually costs much less per day than renting day by day.
Ready for your trip? Browse the cars on ClicknDrive, check which companies offer delivery, and message them on WhatsApp before you fly — no booking fees and no online payment.