Renting a car in Dubai can be the key to exploring the city’s marvels at your own pace. As a tourist, you’ll want a reliable rental company that offers economy cars, luxury rides, sports cars, and SUVs, along with flexible rental terms and convenient services. In this guide, we review Dubai’s top car rental companies, highlighting short-term (daily/weekly) and long-term (monthly) rental options. We also emphasize traveler-friendly features like easy online booking, airport pickup, and multilingual customer support to help international visitors have a smooth experience.
Top Car Rental Companies in Dubai
Below is a list of some of the best-rated car rental providers in Dubai. These companies offer a wide range of vehicle categories – from budget-friendly compacts to high-end luxury models – and services tailored for tourists. Each review covers the company’s specialties, fleet options, pricing, and customer service, so you can choose the one that best fits your needs.
1. Hertz UAE
Hertz is a globally recognized rental company and one of the largest in the UAE, managing over 11,000 vehicles with 14 rental locations across the country. For tourists, Hertz stands out for its 24/7 airport presence(counters at Dubai International Airport Terminals 1 and 3) and a reputation for professional service. The Hertz fleet in Dubai is diverse – you can rent anything from an affordable economy car (e.g. a Toyota Yaris) to a spacious SUV (like a Toyota Land Cruiser) or even a luxury model from brands like Lexus or Mercedes. This range covers compact cars for city trips, family-friendly sedans and SUVs, as well as premium and sports models for those seeking extra comfort or performance. Hertz also caters to long-term needs with options for short-term rentals and long-term leasing, all supported by a “multilingual 24/7 contact center” to assist customers. Tourists appreciate Hertz for its reliability, roadside assistance, and robust loyalty program (Hertz Gold Plus Rewards) which can offer perks like skip-the-counter service. Keep in mind, Hertz’s premium service may come at a slightly higher price point than some local companies, but it delivers high safety standards and a smooth, hassle-free experience.
2. Avis
Avis is another well-known international car rental brand with a strong presence in Dubai. Avis offers a large selection of vehicles, from small economy cars to high-end luxury vehicles, ensuring that travelers on any budget can find a suitable ride. The company is praised for its customer service and wide network: Avis has locations all over the UAE and desks in all three terminals of Dubai International Airport, making it very convenient for tourists flying into any terminal. Whether you need a compact car for easy parking in the city or a premium car to travel in style, Avis’s fleet can accommodate. The company supports online booking and often provides various insurance packages and add-ons (GPS units, child seats) to customize your rental. In terms of rental duration, Avis caters to both short trips and longer stays – you can rent daily or weekly, and monthly rates are available for extended visits. Many travelers trust Avis for its reliability and global standards, though some note that prices can be moderate. Overall, Avis is a solid choice for tourists, offering multilingual support (staff at airport counters are accustomed to serving international visitors) and 24/7 operations at key locations for maximum convenience.
3. Budget Rent a Car
As its name suggests, Budget Rent a Car is ideal for travelers seeking affordable rates without sacrificing quality. Budget is a globally operating company (with a presence in 128 countries) and has been serving the UAE in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and other emirates for decades. Tourists love that Budget’s fleet includes economy cars, standard sedans, SUVs, and even some luxury models, covering a range of preferences and “the needs of people with a range of incomes and tastes”. In Dubai, Budget has an office at Dubai Airport (Terminal 1) for easy pickup when you land. The company’s online booking system is straightforward, and it often features discounts for online payments or early bookings. Budget also boasts 24/7 customer service support to assist renters at any time. Whether you need a car for a day or a month, Budget offers flexible rental periods (daily, weekly, monthly rates). Its specialty is providing low-cost rentals with reliable service – a great option for tourists who want to save money. Despite the lower prices, Budget maintains quality vehicles and is ISO 9001 certified in the UAE, underscoring its commitment to service standards. If you’re looking for economy or family cars at a good price, Budget is often the top pick for cost-conscious travelers.
4. Europcar
Europcar is known for its extensive network and wide range of cars, making it a convenient choice in Dubai for both short visits and longer stays. Europcar has been in the UAE since the 1970s and operates more than 14 branches across Dubai and the Northern Emirates, including locations in the city and at the airport. This company’s fleet is truly comprehensive: you can find family-sized cars, luxury models, economy hatchbacks, and SUVsavailable for rent. Europcar is particularly praised for its flexible rental terms – they offer daily and weekly rentals as well as short-term and long-term (monthly) rental packages to suit your schedule. Travelers also appreciate the range of extras and add-on services Europcar provides: GPS navigation, child seats, additional driver options, and insurance packages can all be arranged to make your journey comfortable. The company has 24/7 customer support and, at Dubai International Airport Terminal 3, a counter that’s open round-the-clock for late-night or early-morning arrivals. Europcar’s loyalty program can grant frequent renters discounts or free upgrades, which is a nice perk for returning visitors. In summary, Europcar offers friendly, efficient service and a broad vehicle selection, from budget to luxury, making it a versatile choice for tourists in Dubai.
5. Thrifty Car Rental
Thrifty is a popular choice for travelers looking for value for money and dependable service. Operating in the UAE for over 30 years, Thrifty (an American brand) has built a reputation for reasonable prices and a large fleet that can accommodate various needs. Their Dubai fleet ranges from small economy cars (great for solo travelers or couples) to larger sedans and family SUVs, ensuring that whether you’re alone or with family, there’s an appropriate vehicle. Thrifty is known to be reliable and customer-friendly – repeat customers often mention that Thrifty’s staff are helpful and the rental process is straightforward. In Dubai, Thrifty has convenient locations including Dubai International Airport (Terminals 1 and 3) for easy pickup and drop-off. One advantage with Thrifty is the frequent deals and discounts they offer, especially if you book early or during off-peak seasons. For example, Thrifty’s website and offices regularly promote special rates for advance bookings, weekend deals, or holiday offers, making an already affordable rental even cheaper. Tourists can book online in advance and even pre-pay to save more. Short-term rentals (daily/weekly) are Thrifty’s mainstay, but they also provide monthly rentals at adjusted rates for those staying longer. Overall, Thrifty Car Rental is praised for dependability, fair pricing, and good customer service, which makes it a trusted option for budget-conscious tourists in Dubai.
6. Dollar Rent a Car
Dollar Rent a Car is a well-established global car hire company that has been operating in the UAE since 2004. For travelers in Dubai, Dollar is often synonymous with variety and value. They offer all types of rentals – budget cars, luxury cars, and SUVs – which means you can pick anything from a small economic ride to a premium 4×4 depending on your itinerary. Dollar’s commitment to customers shows in the range of deals and discounts they provide; tourists frequently find promotional rates or coupon offers on Dollar’s website for online bookings. The company has a strong presence at Dubai International Airport (Terminals 1 and 3), with 24/7 service, making it convenient to get your car immediately upon arrival. Dollar’s fleet in Dubai is quite extensive – reportedly, the brand manages around 200,000 cars worldwide, so in Dubai you’ll have access to many models that suit different needs and budgets. Customers often note that Dollar’s rental process is efficient and the cars are in good condition. If you’re specifically looking for an SUV for a desert excursion or family trip, Dollar is a great option, as they highlight their SUV rentals among offerings and maintain popular models (like Toyota RAV4s or similar). They also support multilingual assistance, with staff used to serving international tourists (English is standard, and many staff speak Arabic; some locations may have additional languages given Dubai’s diverse tourist base). In summary, Dollar Rent a Car provides competitive rates, a broad fleet (economy through luxury SUVs), and traveler-friendly service, making it one of the top choices for tourists renting in Dubai.
7. Sixt
Sixt is a German car rental company known for its premium services and high-quality vehicles, and it has become a favorite in Dubai for those looking for a mix of luxury and affordability. Sixt’s Dubai fleet is impressively varied – you can find everything from cheap economy cars and standard sedans to high-end luxury sedans, sports cars, convertibles, and SUVs. This means whether you want a simple city runabout or a sleek BMW/Mercedes to “fit in with the locals,” Sixt has you covered. The company has about 2,000 locations in 100+ countries globally, and in Dubai they operate at Dubai International Airport (Terminals 1 and 3) as well as branches in the city. Tourists often praise Sixt for its great customer service and well-maintained cars. For instance, Sixt’s staff are described as friendly and English-speaking, which helps international travelers during pickup. Sixt is very accommodating with rental terms: you can rent by the day or opt for long-term rentals (monthly or more) with ease. They also allow free cancellation or changes for many bookings, providing flexibility if your plans change. In Dubai, Sixt is sometimes regarded as “the best car rental company” due to its combination of vehicle quality and service. Additionally, Sixt’s online booking platform and mobile app are user-friendly, letting you quickly reserve a car and include add-ons like GPS or insurance. If you value newer models, premium options, and 24/7 support, Sixt is an excellent choice – yet they still have economy options if you’re on a tighter budget.
8. National Car Rental
National Car Rental is a US-based company (part of the Enterprise group) that offers a balanced mix of vehicles and a strong loyalty program, which can be very appealing for frequent travelers. In Dubai, National operates around thirteen offices across the UAE and has a fleet filled with high-end cars and a huge selection including SUVs, luxury models, business-class sedans, and affordable cars. This variety means both business visitors and tourists can find a car that suits their trip – whether it’s a roomy SUV for a family adventure or a simple economy car for city sightseeing. National’s hallmark is its Emerald Club loyalty program, which offers members speedier service and perks like free rental days or car class upgrades. Tourists on short visits may not join the club, but it shows National’s focus on customer satisfaction and repeat clients. At Dubai International Airport (Terminals 1 and 3), National has 24/7 counters so you can pick up your vehicle regardless of your flight time. The company also prides itself on serving both leisure and business travelers, and it offers services accordingly – from daily rentals to monthly leases, and even chauffeured cars if needed. Customer service with National is generally well-regarded; they often have staff who can assist in multiple languages or at least ensure English and Arabic support. Pricing with National is typically mid-range – not as low as some budget local companies, but competitive for the quality and convenience. In fact, globally, National often ranks high in customer satisfaction, and Dubai is no exception: you can expect a smooth rental experience, clean vehicles, and straightforward pickup/drop-offprocesses with National Car Rental.
9. Alamo Rent a Car
Alamo is another internationally known rental brand (also under Enterprise group) that is trusted for its customer service and reasonable pricing. Tourists who choose Alamo in Dubai often do so for its user-friendly rental experience – Alamo is known for making the process easy, from reservation to return. At Dubai International Airport Terminal 3, Alamo provides a convenient location to rent on arrival, offering a variety of vehicles including economy cars, SUVs, minivans, and even trucks for those with special cargo or large group needs. One notable aspect is that there’s no strict cutoff time for booking online; you can often make a reservation last-minute or even modify it easily if your flight plans change. Alamo’s fleet quality in Dubai is generally good – cars are clean and meet the expectations of international travelers. While Alamo may not have as many branch locations in the city as some others, it leverages its airport presence and partnerships to serve customers. In terms of short-term vs long-term: Alamo primarily focuses on daily and weekly rentals for tourists, but they can arrange monthly rentals as well (often via their Enterprise network). The company’s prices are typically competitive; many find Alamo offers a nice balance between cost and service quality (often a bit cheaper than Hertz or Sixt, for example, while still providing reliable cars). Customer reviews frequently mention Alamo’s friendly staff and quick service at the counter. If you want a hassle-free rental at a fair price, Alamo is a strong contender in Dubai’s car rental scene
10. Speedy Drive Car Rental
Speedy Drive is a popular local car rental agency in Dubai that has been gaining attention from both tourists and residents. While not a global brand, Speedy Drive differentiates itself with personalized service and flexibility. They offer an “extensive array of vehicles tailored to diverse needs” – from compact cars for city explorations to spacious SUVs for family adventures, as well as luxurious models for special occasions. This means you can rent a simple Honda or Toyota for budget travel, or treat yourself to a BMW or Mercedes for a bit of luxury, all from the same company. Speedy Drive is also known for its transparent pricing (no hidden fees) and flexible rental options. Uniquely, they allow rentals for as short as a few hours up to long-term monthly plans, tailoring the package to your schedule. Tourists appreciate this flexibility if they only need a car for a day trip or if they’re staying for several weeks. Convenience is a big focus for Speedy Drive: they provide complimentary delivery and pick-up of the vehicle, which can include delivering the car to your hotel or even the airport upon request. Their customer support tends to be multilingual and available around the clock, and they offer 24/7 roadside assistance so renters have peace of mind during their journey. While Speedy Drive’s main office is in the Business Bay area of Dubai, the delivery service means you might not need to visit a branch at all. Pricing with Speedy Drive is considered competitive in the local market – economy cars can be very affordable per day, and even their premium cars often undercut the rates of international chains. For tourists who want a hassle-free, door-to-door car rental experience with a wide choice of vehicles, Speedy Drive is an excellent local company to consider. (Note: As with any local rental, it’s wise to read recent reviews; most customers have a smooth experience, but ensuring you understand the terms (fuel policy, mileage limits, deposit, etc.) will help avoid any issues.)
Comparison Table of Top Dubai Car Rental Companies
To help you compare the options, the table below summarizes each company’s specialties, vehicle fleet range, typical pricing, and customer ratings. All these companies support online booking and airport pickup, and most provide customer service in English, Arabic, and other languages for the convenience of tourists.
| Rental Company | Specialties & Services | Fleet Options | Typical Price Range | Customer Ratings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hertz UAE |
|
Economy, Standard, SUVs, Luxury (incl. hybrids). | From ~AED 50/day (economy) to AED 800+/day (luxury);
monthly plans available with discounts. |
Generally Good (e.g. ~7.2/10 on Kayak; known for quality service). |
| Avis UAE |
|
Economy hatchbacks, Sedans, SUVs, Luxury cars. | From ~AED 60/day (economy) and up; premium models at higher rates. Weekly and monthly rates offered. | Good overall (around 3.5–4★ out of 5 by tourists; reliable but occasional wait times). |
| Budget Rent a Car |
|
Compact/Economy, Midsize Sedans, SUVs, some Luxury. | From ~AED 45–55/day for economy; upscale SUVs ~AED 250+/day. Long-term rentals at reduced daily rates. | Very Good for value (popular for budget travelers; often rated 4★/5 for price-quality). |
| Europcar |
|
Economy & Compact, Family sedans, SUVs, Luxury/Executive models. | Economy from ~AED 50/day; Luxury ~AED 300–600/day. Offers packages with unlimited mileage or GPS included. | Very Good (around 4★/5; appreciated for flexibility and support). |
| Thrifty UAE |
|
Small Economy cars, Compact & Full-size, SUVs/MPVs (good for families). | Economy ~AED 50/day; larger vehicles ~AED 200–300/day. Offers special weekend rates and monthly deals. | Good (typically 3.5–4★/5; customers like the value and service). |
| Dollar Rent a Car |
|
Economy, Sedans, SUVs, Luxury/Sports models. | Economy ~AED 50-60/day; SUVs ~AED 250+/day; luxury sports cars higher. Online bookings can save $$ with coupons. | Good (around 3.5–4★/5; praised for selection and convenience). |
| Sixt |
|
Economy & Compact, Premium Sedans, Convertibles, Luxury SUVs. | Economy ~AED 55/day; Premium/Luxury from ~AED 300/day; sports/exotics can be AED 1000+. Monthly rentals available. | Excellent (often 4★/5 or higher; known for quality and luxury options). |
| National Car Rental |
|
Economy cars, Business sedans, SUVs, Luxury cars. | Economy ~AED 55-65/day; larger or luxury vehicles higher. Long-term leasing options with corporate rates. | Very Good (generally ~4★/5; high customer satisfaction, especially among frequent renters). |
| Alamo |
|
Compact/Economy, Intermediate sedans, SUVs, Minivans, Trucks. | Economy ~AED 50-60/day; SUVs/Vans ~AED 250-400/day. Often all-inclusive rates with insurance for peace of mind. | Good (about 3.5–4★/5; liked for smooth process and fair pricing). |
| Speedy Drive |
|
Hatchbacks & Economy, Standard Sedans, SUVs (incl. 7-seaters), Luxury & Sports models. | Economy from ~AED 40/day; mid-range sedans ~AED 100/day; luxury cars vary (~AED 500+). Monthly plans often discounted (e.g. ~AED 1300+/month for economy). | Good (roughly 4★/5 on local reviews; valued for convenience and personalized service). |
Sources: The information above is compiled from travel and local guides, company websites, and customer reviews. For instance, PropertyFinder’s guide to Dubai car rentals and the eZhire blog provide insights into fleet offerings and services, while Kayak and other aggregators give an idea of pricing and ratings. Always check the latest details and reviews before booking, as fleet availability and prices can change seasonally.
Final Tips for Tourists
When choosing a car rental in Dubai, consider your itinerary and preferences. For city sightseeing and short trips, an economy car from Budget or Thrifty might suffice. If you plan to drive into the desert or have a large family, look at an SUV from Hertz, Dollar, or Speedy Drive. Those craving a flashy ride for special occasions can explore luxury and sports cars with companies like Sixt or local exotic rental specialists. Always book in advance online (to secure better rates and ensure availability of your desired vehicle) and double-check the rental conditions such as insurance coverage, mileage limits, and deposit requirements. Most of the companies above offer airport pickup, so you can land in Dubai and quickly get on the road. And don’t worry about communication – Dubai’s rental agencies are well-accustomed to international travelers, with English-speaking and often multilingual staff ready to assist. With the right rental company, you’ll have the freedom to enjoy Dubai and its surroundings on your own schedule, making your trip truly unforgettable.
