Car Rental at Abu Dhabi Airport (AUH) – Pickup, Prices & Local Driving Tips

Arriving at Abu Dhabi Airport is a great start to your journey. Renting a car will give you the freedom to explore the city and surrounding regions at your own pace. This page will help you navigate the rental process, understand the costs, and prepare for local driving conditions.

Where to Find Car Rental Offices

Most car rental companies have their desks directly in the airport arrival area. They are usually located in the main terminal, often near the baggage claim area. Some companies may offer shuttles to their off-airport offices, but most provide vehicles directly at the airport. Look for signs in the airport to find the desired office.

Popular Companies and Cars

Companies such as Avis, Budget, Hertz, Europcar, Sixt, and others are usually represented at Abu Dhabi Airport. The choice of vehicles is quite wide, from economy models to SUVs and luxury cars. Here are some popular options:

Economy 25 – 40 EUR
Compact 30 – 50 EUR
Intermediate 40 – 60 EUR
SUV 60 – 100 EUR
Luxury 100+ EUR

Please note that prices may vary depending on the season and vehicle availability.

Required Documents and Rental Conditions

To rent a car, you will need a valid driver's license (an international driving permit may be required, depending on the country of issue of your license), a passport, and a credit card in the driver's name. The minimum age for rental is usually 21, but some companies may require 23 or 25. A deposit is usually required, which will be blocked on your credit card. The deposit amount depends on the type of vehicle and insurance coverage. Make sure you have sufficient free credit limit on your card.

Insurance: What You Need to Know

When renting a car, you will be offered various types of insurance. CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) covers damage to the vehicle in the event of an accident. Theft insurance protects against vehicle loss. It is important to pay attention to the amount of the excess – this is the amount you will have to pay yourself in the event of damage or theft. You can reduce the excess by purchasing additional insurance, but this will increase the rental cost. Read the insurance terms carefully before signing the agreement.

Driving in the UAE: A Brief Overview

In the UAE, traffic is on the right. The speed on highways is usually limited to 120 km/h, in cities – 80-100 km/h. Parking in Abu Dhabi may be paid, especially in the city center. Some roads may be toll roads, payment is made using an electronic system. Be careful on the road and follow traffic rules.

FAQ

What documents are required to rent a car?

Driver's license, passport, and a credit card in the driver's name.

Is an international driver's license required?

It depends on the country of issue of your license. It is better to have it with you.

What is the minimum age for rental?

Usually 21, but some companies require 23 or 25.

What is the excess?

This is the amount you will pay yourself in the event of damage or theft of the car.

Can the excess be reduced?

Yes, by purchasing additional insurance, but this will increase the rental cost.

How does parking payment work in Abu Dhabi?

Usually parking is paid, especially in the city center. You can pay with cash or card.

Are there toll roads in the UAE?

Yes, some roads are equipped with an electronic payment system.

What is the speed limit on highways?

Usually 120 km/h.

What to do in case of an accident?

Immediately notify the rental company and the police.

Is it possible to cross the border with a rented car?

Usually this is possible, but you need to agree it with the company in advance.

How to return the car?

Usually in the same place where you took it, or in another agreed place.

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