When renting a car in the UAE, it is essential to understand what is included in your rental package to avoid unexpected charges. Rental companies offer various standard inclusions and optional add-ons, depending on the rental duration and vehicle type.

1. Standard Inclusions in Car Rentals

✔️ Basic Insurance (Third-Party Liability - TPL)

• Covers damage caused to other vehicles or property in case of an accident.
• Required by UAE law and included in all rental cars.
• Does not cover damage to the rental car.

💡 Tip – If you want full protection, consider upgrading to comprehensive insurance or a collision damage waiver (CDW).

✔️ Free Mileage Limit

• Most rentals come with daily, weekly, or monthly mileage caps.
• Exceeding the mileage limit results in extra charges per kilometer.
• Some companies offer unlimited mileage plans for long-term rentals.

💡 Tip – Check the mileage allowance before renting to avoid additional fees.

✔️ 24 by 7 Roadside Assistance

• Most rental companies provide round-the-clock support for breakdowns.
• Covers flat tires, battery issues, and emergency towing.

💡 Tip – Always ask for the emergency contact number when renting your car.

✔️ Salik (Toll) Tag

• Every rental car comes with a Salik tag for automatic toll payments.
• The rental company will deduct toll charges from your security deposit.

💡 Tip – Each Salik crossing costs AED 4, and some rental companies charge a small admin fee for toll processing.

✔️ Regular Maintenance and Servicing

• Rental companies ensure vehicles are well-maintained with periodic servicing.
• Includes oil changes, brake checks, and engine inspections.

💡 Tip – If a rental car has a service warning light, report it immediately to avoid charges.

✔️ Replacement Vehicle in Case of Major Breakdown

• If the rented vehicle experiences a mechanical failure, the company provides a replacement.
• Replacement may not be available if the car breaks down due to driver negligence.

💡 Tip – Ensure your rental agreement covers vehicle replacement before signing.

✔️ Basic Car Accessories

• Most rental cars come with:
  ✔️ Air conditioning and climate control
  ✔️ USB and Bluetooth connectivity
  ✔️ Power windows and mirrors
  ✔️ Rear parking sensors

💡 Tip – Some luxury rentals include GPS navigation and advanced parking assist features.

2. Optional Add-Ons and Extras

🚗 Comprehensive Insurance / Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)

• Covers accidental damage to the rental car.
• Reduces the amount you have to pay in case of an accident.

💡 Recommended for tourists or those driving long distances.

🚼 Child Safety Seat

• Mandatory for children under 4 years old in the UAE.
• Rental companies charge an extra AED 20 – AED 50 per day for baby seats.

💡 Tip – Book child seats in advance, as availability may be limited.

📍 GPS Navigation System

• Available as an add-on for AED 15 – AED 40 per day.
• Useful for tourists unfamiliar with UAE roads.

💡 Tip – If you have a smartphone, Google Maps or Waze can be a free alternative.

🏜️ Off-Road Insurance for 4x4 Vehicles

• Required if you plan to drive in the desert or mountainous areas.
• Costs AED 50 – AED 200 per day, depending on the car type.

💡 Tip – Off-road driving without insurance violates rental agreements and can lead to hefty penalties.

🛑 Additional Driver

• Some rentals allow one extra driver for free, while others charge AED 20 – AED 50 per day.

💡 Tip – The extra driver must meet UAE age and license requirements.

🧼 Car Delivery and Pickup Service

• Some companies offer free delivery and pickup within city limits.
• Charges apply for airport deliveries or long-distance locations.

💡 Tip – Confirm delivery fees before booking to avoid unexpected costs.

3. What is Not Included in UAE Car Rentals?

🚫 Traffic Fines and Violations – The renter is responsible for any speeding tickets, Salik tolls, and parking fines.
🚫 Fuel Costs – Rental cars are provided with a fixed fuel level; returning the car with less fuel may result in refueling charges.
🚫 Off-Road Damage – Standard rental insurance does not cover desert or mountain driving unless off-road insurance is purchased.
🚫 Car Wash Fees – Some companies charge cleaning fees if the car is returned excessively dirty.

Final Thoughts

🚗 Renting a car in the UAE comes with several inclusions, such as basic insurance, roadside assistance, and toll tags.
✔️ If you want extra protection, consider adding comprehensive insurance, GPS, or off-road coverage.
✔️ Always check mileage limits, security deposit policies, and fuel rules before renting.

By understanding what is included in your car rental, you can avoid hidden fees and enjoy a stress-free experience on UAE roads.

🚘 Planning to rent a car? Know your inclusions and drive with confidence! 🚘