Renting a car in the UAE makes travel easier. It gives you freedom to explore Dubai and the nearby emirates at your own pace. The rental process is straightforward for Saudi visitors, but there are a few details worth knowing. This guide covers driving with a Saudi licence, required documents, age and licence validity, insurance options, Salik tolls, fuel and deposit policies, and why renting with a trusted company like Hertz UAE is a smart choice.
Driving in the UAE With a Saudi Licence – What You Need to Know
You can drive in the UAE with a valid Saudi driving licence. Carry the physical licence and your passport while you drive. According to UAE RTA guidelines, visitors from GCC countries, including Saudi Arabia, may drive using a valid home-country licence for the duration of their visit. Still, it’s a good idea to check official guidance before travel, especially if your rental period is longer.
Different rules apply if you plan to stay long-term or become a resident. UAE Residents must exchange or convert licences per UAE procedure. Here’s a helpful guide explaining how to convert a driving licence in Dubai.
For short visits, Saudi licence holders are generally accepted by rental companies. Confirm with the rental provider at booking.
Documents Saudi Tourists Must Carry for Car Rentals
To rent a car in the UAE as a Saudi national, you will usually need:
- A valid Saudi driving licence (original).
- Your passport with a valid UAE entry stamp or visa page.
- A valid credit card in the main driver’s name for the security deposit.
Visitors do not need an Emirates ID; that document is for residents only. If you’re renting with Hertz UAE, have your valid Saudi driving licence, passport showing your UAE entry stamp, and a credit card ready for the security hold. Hertz UAE lists all rental requirements and any vehicle-specific rules on its website, so review the requirements before you travel.
If you’re planning a multi-emirate trip, you can also check Hertz’s guide on dropping a rental car in Abu Dhabi or other emirates.
Age, Licence Validity, and Other Key Rental Conditions
With Hertz UAE, the basic minimum age to rent is 21, though policies vary by vehicle category. Hertz splits renter bands (21–24 and 25+) and applies additional conditions or a young-driver surcharge for drivers under 25. Luxury, high-performance, or exotic models often require drivers to be 25 or older. If you’re under 25, expect a daily young-driver fee unless otherwise waived by a qualifying membership or promotion.
Hertz also requires renters to present a valid driver’s licence at the counter. In many locations, the licence must have been held for a minimum period (commonly one year), so confirm this when you book.
Insurance Options Explained for Saudi Renters in the UAE
Basic insurance is included with most rentals. This covers third-party liability and minimum legal requirements. Keep in mind that basic insurance often comes with an excess — this is the portion you would have to pay if the rental car is damaged.
You can reduce your liability by adding optional protections:
- Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) reduces or removes excess for vehicle damage.
- Super CDW / Zero-excess can remove the excess entirely, for an additional daily cost
- Theft protection covers vehicle theft up to the policy limits.
- Personal accident insurance covers occupants for medical costs in some cases.
Hertz offers a range of cover options at the counter, including Super CDW, to minimize financial risk. Evaluate the costs versus your own travel insurance or third-party policies before buying.
Handling Salik Tolls, Fuel Policies, and Security Deposits
Salik tolls
Dubai’s electronic toll system, Salik, runs on mounted tags. Rental cars usually come with Salik enabled. Toll fees are passed to the renter after the trip. Many rental firms add a small admin fee on top of the toll charges. Ask whether tolls are included in your rental package or billed afterwards.
Fuel policies
Full-to-full is the common approach. You pick up the car with a full tank and return it full. If you return with less fuel, expect to pay for refueling plus a refueling service charge. Confirm the fuel policy at pickup.
Security deposits
Rental firms typically place a hold on your credit card as a security deposit. The amount varies by car type and provider. For economy cars, the hold may be modest; for luxury and high-end cars, it can run much higher. The hold is released after the vehicle is returned and any tolls or fines are processed. Refund timeframes vary. Expect the hold to remain for several days while transactions clear.
Rent a Car With Hertz UAE
Choosing a reputable rental company simplifies the process. If you’re still deciding whether renting is the right choice for your trip, this guide explains whether renting a car in Dubai is worth it.
Hertz UAE lists clear rental requirements, transparent policies, and a wide fleet that includes economy cars, SUVs, and premium models. Booking with Hertz gives you:
- Clear pricing and documented terms.
- A range of vehicles suitable for city driving, family trips, or desert adventures.
- Optional protections like Super CDW for greater peace of mind.
Whether you’re a tourist or among the many business travelers visiting the UAE, Hertz offers reliable service and well-maintained vehicles. Check Hertz UAE’s offers online to pick a vehicle that fits your trip and budget.
Quick Checklist for a Hassle-Free Car Rental Experience
Before you book or pick up the car, use this checklist:
- Valid Saudi driving licence and passport with UAE stamp.
- A credit card with enough available limit for the security deposit.
- Confirm minimum age and licence history rules with the rental company.
- Decide on insurance cover (CDW, SCDW, theft protection) before pickup.
- Ask about Salik toll handling and admin fees.
- Note the fuel policy (full-to-full is common).
- Inspect the car carefully and photograph any existing damage.
- Keep the rental agreement and receipts until all charges clear.
When you’re ready, browse Hertz UAE to compare cars and book online. Renting in advance is smart during busy travel periods. You can also rely on Google Maps for easy navigation across Dubai and the wider UAE, helpful for tourists and business travelers alike. For smoother navigation and travel, explore the best apps to use for a UAE road trip.
Final Notes: Practical Tips for Saudi Visitors
Plan your routes. Dubai and the UAE have excellent roads and clear signage. Expect busy hours near major malls, business districts, and the airport. Drive safely, wear seat belts, and observe speed limits and traffic rules to avoid fines. These rules follow official UAE RTA driving regulations, which apply to all visitors, including Saudi nationals. For a full overview of the rules, you can read Hertz UAE’s complete guide to Dubai driving rules.
If you’re heading into the desert, choose an SUV or 4×4 with higher ground clearance. If you’ll stay mostly in the city, an economy car or compact SUV will save on fuel and parking.
Renting a car is about freedom and convenience. With the right documents, insurance, and a trustworthy provider like Hertz UAE, your trip is simpler and more comfortable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can we drive in Dubai with a Saudi license?
Yes, Saudi citizens can confidently cruise in Dubai using a valid Saudi driving license, no conversion is needed for short stays. Just be sure it’s current and clearly readable.
Can I use my IDP to rent a car in Dubai?
Yes, you can secure a smooth rental with your International Driving Permit (IDP). Pair it with your original license for compliant car hire across the UAE.
Do Saudi residents need a visa for Dubai?
Saudi citizens don’t need a visa for Dubai, making it a stress-free, seamless trip. Just bring a valid passport and enjoy visa-free visits up to 90 days.
Is Saudi Arabia’s driving license international?
While Saudi Arabia’s license isn’t officially international, it’s widely welcomed in Dubai for tourists. For extended stays or residents, a license conversion may be required.
What documents are required for a rental car in Dubai?
To rent a reliable ride in Dubai, you’ll need a valid driving license, passport copy, visa or entry stamp, and a credit card; all must be clear, current, and complete. We make this process way simpler for you at Hertz UAE.