Car Rental FAQ's
Got a car rental question ? Find quick answers in our UAE car rental FAQ section - Everything you need to know before you book with AVIS
How do I book a rental car with AVIS UAE?
You can book a rental car with AVIS UAE in multiple ways. Visit our website at www.avis.ae and use the online booking engine. You can also Call/WhatsApp 800 2847 or +971 4 330 7272 (lines open 8am to 8pm, Monday to Saturday, and 9am to 8pm on Sunday, UAE time). Alternatively, send an email to callcentre@avisuae.ae, or visit any of our branches across the UAE. Corporate customers can arrange tailored fleet solutions through our corporate leasing team at lease.corporate@avisuae.ae
Can I book an AVIS rental car online and pick it up at Dubai Airport?
Yes. AVIS UAE operates desks at Dubai International Airport (DXB) Terminal 1, Terminal 2, and Terminal 3 — all open 24 hours, 7 days a week. We also operate at Zayed International Airport Abu Dhabi (24 hours). Simply book online at www.avis.ae, select your preferred airport terminal as the pickup location, and your vehicle will be ready when you land.
Can I modify or cancel my AVIS UAE booking?
Yes. You can cancel or amend your booking free of charge more than 72 hours before your rental pickup time. For cancellations within 72 hours, a cancellation fee applies. If you do not cancel and fail to show up (no-show), no refund will be issued. For reservations made through a third party (travel agent or online platform), you must contact the original booking source directly — AVIS UAE is unable to cancel or modify third-party bookings. To modify or cancel a direct booking, Call/WhatsApp 800 2847 or email callcentre@avisuae.ae.
Can I rent a car from one AVIS location and return it to another?
Yes, AVIS UAE offers one-way car rentals across our network. A one-way drop-off fee applies when renting in one emirate and returning in another, varying by vehicle category and route. Downtown location drop-offs within the same emirate are free of charge. Vehicles may not be driven or dropped off outside the UAE without prior approval from AVIS UAE. For details, Call/WhatsApp 800 2847.
How far in advance should I book my rental car?
We recommend booking at least 48 to 72 hours in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons (November to March), major holidays (Eid, New Year), and large events. Booking early ensures you get your preferred vehicle type. AVIS UAE does accommodate same-day bookings subject to fleet availability. For cross-border rentals to Oman, a minimum of 72 hours advance notice is required. Book online at www.avis.ae for instant confirmation.
What is the grace period to collect my reserved vehicle?
As per our policy, you may collect your reserved vehicle within 6 hours of the scheduled pickup time. After 6 hours, the reserved vehicle will be released back to the fleet for availability and your reservation may be treated as a no-show. If your flight is delayed, please Call/WhatsApp 800 2847 in advance so we can hold your vehicle.
What documents do I need to rent a car from AVIS UAE?
All documents must be presented physically at the AVIS counter. The mandatory documents are: (1) Valid passport, Emirates ID, or GCC ID (for GCC nationals); (2) Valid driving licence issued at least 1 year before the rental pickup date; (3) Valid credit card in the renter’s name with minimum 3 months validity from the rental start date; (4) Valid visa or entry documents (UAE entry stamp or visa page), except for customers who entered through Smart Gate; (5) Valid International Driving Permit where applicable, for renters on a UAE visit or tourist visa. For renters who opt for vehicle delivery, documents must be emailed to callcentre@avisuae.ae at least two hours before the scheduled delivery, and original copies must be presented during delivery for verification. For monthly or mini lease rentals, proof of UAE address is also required.
What is the minimum age to rent a car with AVIS UAE?
The minimum age to rent a car with AVIS UAE is 21 years old for sedan cars (Groups A–E). For SUV and larger vehicle categories, the minimum age is 25 years. The driver must hold a valid driving licence for a minimum of one year. When you book, you will be informed if there are any specific age restrictions for your selected vehicle. There is no maximum age restriction in most cases. For details, Call/WhatsApp 800 2847.
Can tourists drive in the UAE without an International Driving Permit?
Drivers holding valid licences from the following countries can rent and drive in the UAE using only their national driving licence, without an International Driving Permit: GCC Countries (Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Oman); European Countries (Germany, Italy, France, Britain, Spain, Netherlands, Switzerland, Sweden, Belgium, Austria, Denmark, Norway, Finland, Ireland, Poland, Portugal, Greece, Hungary, Romania, Croatia, Turkey, Bulgaria, Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, Cyprus, Slovakia, Slovenia, Malta, Albania, Serbia, Luxembourg, Iceland, Belarus, Ukraine, Republic of Montenegro); North American Countries (United States, Canada); East Asian Countries (Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong, China, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Israel, Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan); African Countries (South Africa). The original licence must be from the same country as the passport. If the licence is from a different country, you must provide valid visa or ID documents proving permanent residency in the licence-issuing country. If we cannot confirm the details on your licence, you may also need an official English translation by a notary.
Can I add an additional driver to my AVIS rental agreement?
Yes, additional drivers can be added to your AVIS UAE rental agreement. The additional driver must be present at the time of rental, meet the minimum age requirement for the vehicle category, and present a valid driving licence (held for at least 1 year) and passport or Emirates ID. Additional driver fees apply based on the rental duration. All additional drivers must be approved and specified on the Rental Agreement Form. You must not let anyone else drive the vehicle who is not listed on the agreement. You are responsible for all costs incurred by any additional driver.
Can someone with an employment visa from another country and a foreign driving licence rent from AVIS UAE?
Yes, customers holding driving licences from approved countries (listed above) can rent from AVIS UAE. The original licence must be from the same country as the passport issuing country. If the licence is from a different country, the customer must provide valid visa or ID documents to prove permanent residency in the country where the licence was issued. For verification, Call/WhatsApp 800 2847 before your pickup date.
What types of cars are available to rent from AVIS UAE?
AVIS UAE maintains a diverse, modern fleet organised by vehicle groups. Our categories include: Economy sedans such as Kia Picanto or similar, Nissan Sunny or similar; Compact and Intermediate sedans such as Hyundai Accent or similar, Hyundai Elantra or similar; Standard and Full-Size sedans such as Mazda 6 or similar, Nissan Altima or similar; Mini SUVs and Crossovers such as Nissan Kicks or similar, Hyundai Creta or similar; Intermediate SUVs such as Peugeot 3008 or similar, Nissan X-Trail or similar; Standard and Large SUVs such as Toyota Fortuner or similar, Nissan Pathfinder or similar; Premium SUVs such as Nissan Patrol or similar; and Commercial vans for business logistics. Specific models are subject to availability and may be substituted with a similar vehicle in the same category. Browse our fleet at www.avis.ae/avis-uae-fleet.
Does AVIS UAE offer SUV and 4x4 rentals?
Yes, AVIS UAE offers a range of SUVs across multiple categories: Mini SUVs such as Nissan Kicks or similar, Hyundai Creta or similar; Intermediate SUVs such as Peugeot 3008 or similar, Nissan X-Trail or similar; Standard SUVs such as Toyota Fortuner or similar; Large SUVs such as Nissan Pathfinder or similar; and Premium SUVs such as Nissan Patrol or similar. Specific models are subject to availability. Important: Off-road driving (dune bashing) is strictly not allowed in any AVIS rental vehicle. Insurance does not cover off-road usage, and the renter is fully liable for any damage. The minimum age for SUV rental is 25 years.
Does AVIS UAE offer chauffeur-driven car services?
Yes, AVIS UAE provides a premium chauffeur service for airport transfers, business meetings, corporate events, city tours, and full-day executive travel. Chauffeur services can be booked for one-way transfers or by the hour. Visit www.avis.ae/Chauffeur-Service or Call/WhatsApp 800 2847 to arrange.
Are all AVIS UAE rental cars automatic or manual?
Most AVIS UAE rental vehicles are automatic transmission, which is the standard in the UAE. If you specifically require a manual transmission vehicle, please contact our reservation team in advance to check availability at Call/WhatsApp 800 2847 or email callcentre@avisuae.ae. Most vehicles come equipped with air conditioning, and many newer models include Bluetooth connectivity, USB charging ports, and reverse cameras.
What insurance is included with AVIS UAE car rentals?
All AVIS UAE rentals include Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) as mandatory insurance. CDW limits the renter’s financial responsibility to an excess amount stated on the Rental Agreement, which varies by vehicle group. CDW covers damage to the rental vehicle caused in a road accident with a valid police report. CDW does NOT cover: damage by an unauthorised driver or a driver under the influence; damage to the vehicle interior; tyre and wheel damage; windscreen damage; wheel cover and rim damage; undercarriage damage; broken or lost keys; lost or damaged documents; or contamination of fuel. Theft Protection (TP) is also included as standard in most cases.
Can I reduce the insurance excess on my AVIS rental?
Yes. AVIS UAE offers Super Collision Damage Waiver (SCDW), an optional insurance sold in addition to the mandatory CDW. By accepting SCDW, you reduce your damage liability to zero. SCDW covers collision damage only — it does NOT cover damage to the interior, windscreen, tyres, wheels, wheel covers, rims, undercarriage, broken or lost keys, lost documents, or fuel contamination. For other types of damage, separate optional products are available. A police report is mandatory for any SCDW claim. For current SCDW availability, Call/WhatsApp 800 2847 or enquire at the counter.
What optional protection products does AVIS UAE offer?
AVIS UAE offers several optional protection products: (1) SCDW (Super Collision Damage Waiver) — reduces damage excess to zero for collision damage; (2) WS (Windscreen Protection) — covers damage to front, back, and side windows; (3) TC (Tyre Cover) — covers flat or damaged tyres; (4) RSN (Roadside Safety Net) — covers towing, flat tyre replacement, refuelling service, lost key replacement, and jump starts; (5) PAI (Personal Accident Insurance) — covers driver and passengers for death or bodily injury whilst in the vehicle. All products can be purchased individually or as a Full Protection Package that includes SCDW, WS, TC, RSN, and PAI together. Currently, the full insurance package options are available at the counter upon arrival. Enquire at the counter or Call/WhatsApp 800 2847 for details.
What is the difference between basic insurance and full protection?
With basic insurance (CDW), you are covered for collision damage but you have an excess liability amount depending on the vehicle category. If you cause any damage, you will bear the cost up to the excess amount, and a police report is mandatory. With the Full Protection Package (SCDW + WS + TC + RSN + PAI), any collision damage to the vehicle is covered with zero excess (provided you have a police report), plus you are covered for windscreen damage, tyre damage, roadside breakdowns, and personal accident insurance for the driver and passengers. Note that even with full protection, damages caused under the influence of alcohol or drugs, by an unauthorised driver, or to the vehicle interior are not covered.
What should I do if I have an accident in my AVIS rental car?
If you are involved in an accident: (1) Ensure everyone’s safety and call 999 for police, 998 for ambulance if needed. (2) Do not move the vehicles until police arrive. (3) Obtain a police report — this is absolutely mandatory. Without a police report, no insurance coverage will apply and you will be fully liable for all costs. It is a violation to repair accident vehicles without a police report. (4) Contact AVIS UAE immediately at Call/WhatsApp 800 2847 or +971 4 330 7272 (24/7 for emergencies). (5) Take photographs of all vehicles, the scene, and any damage. You can also submit a report through the Dubai Police app. If the vehicle is not drivable, AVIS will arrange towing and a replacement vehicle subject to availability. Always check the insurance type on your agreement — if you have CDW only, the excess amount will apply for at-fault accidents; if you have SCDW, zero excess applies with a valid police report.
Is a police report required for all accidents?
Yes, a police report is mandatory for any accident or damage claim, regardless of whether you have basic insurance (CDW) or full protection (SCDW). Without a police report, AVIS UAE will not be able to process any insurance claim, and the renter will be fully responsible for all repair costs. The police report provides clearance that the vehicle was not involved in any injury or third-party property damage. In Dubai, you can contact 999 or use the Dubai Police app to file a report with photographs.
What happens if I return the vehicle with minor scratches or dents?
Regular wear and tear such as thin paint scratches and pin dents will be measured and estimated accordingly. The vehicle will be assessed upon return and you will be communicated the findings before the vehicle is sent to the workshop. To avoid any delay upon return, we recommend contacting our 24/7 hotline at Call/WhatsApp 800 2847 and informing us of any damages in advance.
What are the speed limits on UAE roads?
Speed limits in the UAE vary by road type and emirate. Within city areas, the typical speed limit is 60 to 80 km/h. On main highways such as Sheikh Zayed Road (E11), the speed limit is usually 100 to 120 km/h. The Abu Dhabi–Dubai highway (E11) has a posted limit of 140 km/h on certain stretches. School zones have a reduced limit of 40 km/h during school hours. Speed cameras are widespread across the UAE. Drive on the right-hand side of the road at all times. AVIS UAE renters are fully responsible for all traffic violations incurred during the rental period.
What is Salik and how does it work with my AVIS rental car?
Salik is Dubai’s electronic toll collection system operated by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). There are no physical toll booths — tolls are charged automatically as you pass through Salik gates on major roads. All AVIS UAE vehicles are equipped with automated Salik toll tags. Salik crossings are billed to the renter at the end of the rental and deducted from the security deposit or charged to the credit card. Additionally, automated parking fees may apply at locations where billing is linked to the vehicle’s licence plate or toll tag.
Can I drive my AVIS rental car to other emirates?
Yes, you can drive your AVIS rental car freely throughout all seven UAE emirates — Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah. There are no border checks or additional permits required for inter-emirate travel. If you return the vehicle to a different emirate from where you picked it up, a one-way drop-off fee will apply. Downtown location drop-offs within the same emirate are free of charge.
Can I take my AVIS rental car to Oman?
Yes, but only with prior approval and a minimum of 72 hours (3 working days) advance notice via the AVIS UAE Call Centre. Cross-border rentals require: insurance approval and fleet availability; collection of an original No Objection Certificate (NOC) and Oman Insurance from the assigned AVIS location; a mileage limitation of 250 km per day. Only specific vehicle groups are allowed. AVIS is not responsible for any rejections at the border due to cross-border and territorial restrictions. Customers are restricted from crossing immigration borders at Hatta — only designated tourist border crossings are permitted. Call/WhatsApp 800 2847 to arrange.
What are the fuel policies for AVIS rental cars?
AVIS UAE operates a full-to-full fuel policy as standard. You receive the vehicle with a full tank of fuel and must return it with a full tank. If the vehicle is returned with less fuel than provided, service charges will apply. We recommend refuelling near your return location before dropping off. Petrol stations are widely available across the UAE. Off-road driving is not permitted in any AVIS vehicle — insurance does not cover off-road usage.
What happens if I return the AVIS rental car late?
The minimum rental period is one day (24 hours). AVIS UAE provides a maximum grace period of 29 minutes from the end of your agreed rental period. If you exceed the 29-minute grace period, an additional full day’s rental at the prevailing daily rate will be charged, including fees for all options you selected. If you anticipate a late return, contact AVIS UAE at Call/WhatsApp 800 2847 to extend your rental and avoid penalty charges.
Can I get a refund if I return the car early?
For daily and weekly rentals, there is no refund for unused rental days once the rental has started. For monthly rentals, if you return the vehicle within the first 14 days, the rental will be converted to the applicable daily or weekly rate, and you may receive a refund for the balance amount. No refunds are issued for prepaid rentals or no-shows. Returning early may also cause you to lose special offer pricing if you no longer meet the minimum duration requirements.
Can I extend my rental?
Yes, you can extend your rental. Call/WhatsApp 800 2847 or email callcentre@avisuae.ae with your rental agreement number or car plate number and the number of additional days you need. Our team will check availability and process the extension. The extension will be based on the applicable rate and any extras included in your original reservation.
Who is responsible for traffic fines during my AVIS rental?
The renter is fully responsible for all traffic fines, parking violations, and Salik toll charges incurred during the rental period. An administration fee applies per traffic fine on top of the fine amount. All post-rental charges generated up to 30 days after the rental agreement closes will be charged automatically to the renter’s credit card without additional notification. If you wish to dispute a fine, you must visit the relevant traffic authority in person.
What happens in case of a vehicle breakdown?
In the event of a breakdown, park the vehicle in a safe and secure place. Note your exact location and the car plate number. Contact the AVIS Call Centre immediately at Call/WhatsApp 800 2847 or +971 4 330 7272 (available 24/7). Our team will arrange assistance — this may include on-site repair, towing, or a replacement vehicle depending on the situation. If you have purchased the Roadside Safety Net (RSN) product, services including towing, flat tyre replacement, refuelling, lost key replacement, and jump starts are covered.
Where are AVIS UAE branches located?
AVIS UAE operates branches across the United Arab Emirates. Our major locations include: Dubai International Airport (DXB) Terminal 1, Terminal 2, and Terminal 3 (all open 24 hours); multiple downtown Dubai locations including Sheikh Zayed Road, JBR (Jumeirah Beach Residence), and other city branches; and Zayed International Airport Abu Dhabi (24 hours). Airport locations are open 24 hours. Downtown locations have specific operating hours. For the full list of current locations with maps, contact numbers, and opening hours, visit www.avis.ae/avis-uae-car-hire-locations or Call/WhatsApp 800 2847.
Does AVIS UAE deliver rental cars to my location?
Yes, AVIS UAE offers vehicle delivery and collection services across the UAE. Please allow a minimum of 3 hours from the time of booking for delivery. Customers opting for delivery must email required documents to callcentre@avisuae.ae at least two hours before the scheduled delivery time. Original documents must be presented during delivery for physical verification, and the insurance terms and security deposit process will be explained at that time. For delivery availability and locations, Call/WhatsApp 800 2847.
What are AVIS UAE’s operating hours?
Airport branches at Dubai International Airport (DXB) Terminals 1, 2, and 3, and Zayed International Airport Abu Dhabi operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including public holidays. Downtown and city branches have specific operating hours that vary by location. For after-hours vehicle returns, you may return the vehicle to any AVIS airport office. Our call centre at Call/WhatsApp 800 2847 or +971 4 330 7272 is available 8am to 8pm (UAE time) Monday to Saturday, and 9am to 8pm on Sunday. For breakdowns, our emergency line is available 24/7.
Can I book an international rental through AVIS UAE?
Yes, AVIS UAE can assist with international bookings. Please provide the pickup location, drop-off location, dates, and times. Our team will provide the applicable details, terms and conditions, and issue a voucher for prepaid rentals. For international bookings, Call/WhatsApp 800 2847 or email callcentre@avisuae.ae.
Does AVIS UAE offer monthly or long-term car rentals?
Yes, AVIS UAE is one of the leading providers of monthly and long-term car leasing in the UAE. Long-term leases include comprehensive insurance, scheduled maintenance, 24-hour roadside assistance, and vehicle replacement during service. For monthly and mini lease rentals, proof of UAE address is required. For current monthly rates and available vehicles, Call/WhatsApp 800 2847 or visit www.avis.ae.
Is AVIS UAE leasing available for businesses?
Yes, AVIS UAE offers comprehensive corporate fleet leasing for businesses of all sizes. Benefits include dedicated account management, flexible fleet sizes, consolidated monthly invoicing via approved Local Purchase Orders (LPOs), fleet management reporting, and replacement vehicles during servicing. Corporate LPOs are accepted from companies registered locally or internationally with AVIS UAE. For corporate lease enquiries, Call/WhatsApp 800 2847 or email lease.corporate@avisuae.ae.
Are there rules about keeping the AVIS rental car clean?
Yes. AVIS UAE operates a strict non-smoking fleet. Smoking of any kind — cigarettes, cigars, e-cigarettes, shisha — is prohibited in all vehicles. If the vehicle interior is especially dirty, stained, or smelly and standard cleaning will not fix it, a specialist cleaning charge will be applied. If the vehicle is returned with an extremely dirty exterior, a valet charge applies. If a rented vehicle is returned with tinted film on the windows, a removal fee will be charged.
Can AVIS UAE refuse to rent me a vehicle?
Yes, AVIS UAE reserves the right to refuse to rent a vehicle to any customer who: fails to arrive within the collection grace period (6 hours) or does not produce the mandatory physical documents and a valid credit card with sufficient funds; is under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or any substance impairing ability to drive; or exhibits abusive behaviour towards AVIS UAE employees or assets. In such cases, unless the rental was cancelled in advance, no refund will be issued.
Can I use the rental vehicle to tow another vehicle?
No. The rented vehicle cannot be used to tow any vehicle, trailer, or other objects without prior written approval from AVIS UAE. Doing so may void your insurance coverage and you will be fully liable for any resulting damage.
Can I request a specific vehicle or is it “or similar”?
AVIS UAE rents vehicles by category and group, not by specific model. While we will do our best to provide the vehicle you reserved, a similar vehicle in the same category may be provided subject to fleet availability. For example, if you book a Nissan Sunny (Economy), you may receive a Kia Picanto or similar economy vehicle. If a specific model is essential, please contact us in advance to check availability at Call/WhatsApp 800 2847.
Does AVIS UAE offer monthly or long-term car rentals?
Yes, AVIS UAE is one of the leading providers of monthly and long-term car leasing in the UAE. Long-term leases include comprehensive insurance, scheduled maintenance, 24-hour roadside assistance, and vehicle replacement during service. For monthly and mini lease rentals, proof of UAE address is required. For current monthly rates and available vehicles, Call/WhatsApp 800 2847 or visit www.avis.ae.
Does AVIS UAE offer monthly or long-term car rentals?
Yes, AVIS UAE is one of the leading providers of monthly and long-term car leasing in the UAE. Long-term leases include comprehensive insurance, scheduled maintenance, 24-hour roadside assistance, and vehicle replacement during service. For monthly and mini lease rentals, proof of UAE address is required. For current monthly rates and available vehicles, Call/WhatsApp 800 2847 or visit www.avis.ae.