Key Documents Needed to Rent a Car in Dubai

Key Documents Needed to Rent a Car in Dubai

June 13, 2025By MKV Luxury

Hiring a luxury car in Dubai is convenient and liberating, and it is an excellent chance to travel around the city comfortably. However, before one can step on the gas pedal of the dream car, it is important to have all the papers in place. Every piece of paper, from legal verification to eligibility for premium models, is significant. This edition presents all the paperwork from a practical and up-to-date point of view.

Understanding the Document Requirements: Tourist vs. Resident

The documents required when renting a car in Dubai depends on the residency status of the individual. Tourist needs different documents than those who live in UAE and have a resident’s visa.

For Tourists

For those who plan to drive in Dubai, the minimum documents include a valid passport, a tourist visa, and a driving license from the home country. If your license is not in English or Arabic, then you will also need an International Driving Permit (IDP). Normally, most luxury car rental agencies require the client to produce a credit card as a deposit. To this end, MKV Luxury makes sure that all their tourist clients are fully informed of all the requirements that they have to meet and even provides consultation prior to arrival to check their suitability for the program.

For UAE Residents

The residents have to produce their Emirates driving license, Emirates ID and sometimes passport for some of the models particularly the luxurious ones. MKV Luxury uses a digital verification system that enables residents to rent luxury cars quickly and efficiently.

Mandatory Driving License Requirements

In any case, to be allowed to drive, one must have a valid driving license.

International Driving Permits (IDP)

It is important for those who are visiting the country from a country where English is not widely spoken. This translates your native license into a format that is legally accepted in Dubai. It must be acquired prior to entering the UAE.

Country-Specific Agreements

It is not mandatory in some parts of the world such as the UK, USA, EU nations, Australia, and the GCC nations. If the license is from one of these countries and the language of the license is either English or Arabic, then you can directly rent. MKV Luxury maintains a list of acceptable licenses for the purpose of renting out vehicles and informs clients when they are not acceptable to prevent any delay in service.

Identification and Visa Proof

Whether you are hiring a Ferrari for a wedding or an SUV for a drive through the desert, your identification verifies your eligibility to rent a car.

  • Tourists: Passport with visa stamp
  • Residents: Emirates ID and residence visa (if applicable)

It also confirms the age and the length of stay. These details are processed through encrypted systems in MKV Luxury to make it convenient while protecting an individual’s privacy.

Credit Card for Security Deposit

This is to note that for you to block a refundable deposit, a valid credit card is required. This is the common practice among luxury car rentals.


Most rental firms do not accept debit cards because of security. Credit cards afford better chargeback rights for the owners and guarantee that tenants have enough credit limits to meet fines or charges for property damage. MKV Luxury provides clear information about the deposit amounts according to the car model and the rental period, so there would be no confusion at the time of pick up.

Minimum and Recommended Age

The minimum age to rent a car in Dubai is 21 years. Nevertheless, exotic and luxury cars are often rented to persons aged 25 years and above. This age requirement ensures that the rental agencies minimize risk and meet the insurance requirements. 


MKV Luxury has an age-restricted model. For example, clients interested in supercars such as Lamborghini or McLaren may be restricted to customers who are above 25, while luxury SUVs or sedans may not have such strict age restrictions. However, MKV covers the options or special insurance packages if one is below the required age.

Additional Documents for Premium Rentals

Luxury car rentals require more documentation than regular ones.

  • Proof of Financial Responsibility
  • Some providers may ask for:
  • Employment verification
  • Income proof
  • High-limit credit card statement

This requirement ensures responsible use of high-value vehicles and minimizes risk. Such verifications are done by the MKV Luxury in a very professional and diplomatic manner. Their concierge support can pre-approve clients if the clients complete submission forms in advance to minimize the waiting time at the pickup point.

Insurance Documentation

It is customary for insurance to be provided in Dubai rentals, but it is important to know what is covered.

  • Basic insurance covers third-party damage.
  • Additional cover can be availed to get total shielding.

MKV Luxury offers full-insurance upgrade add-ons for its vehicles with detailed information regarding the policy for the renters to take full control of the automobile.

Advance Booking Document Submission

In order to avoid any inconvenience during the luxury car pickup, it is advisable to submit your documents before your trip to avoid delays. To facilitate this process, MKV Luxury allows the submittal of documents online and pre-verification of the documents as well. They check their clients’ licenses, IDs, and credit status in advance, which means you will not have to waste time to have your chosen car processed. This is particularly important during festive seasons when high-demand models are quickly booked.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to renting a luxury car in Dubai, the experience should be smooth and enjoyable, not burdened by paperwork. Being aware of requirements as to what documents are necessary and having them prepared in advance will be a key advantage. It is the ID checks, licenses, and deposit procedures that make all the difference. However, with MKV Luxury, you do not have to go through this process on your own. Their professional working style guarantees that all your papers are documented, your rental is legal, and your vacation is extraordinary. Ready to ride in style? If you wish to drop your documents in advance or wish to book a premium car, then you are welcome to MKV Luxury, your first choice in Dubai for luxury rentals.


June 13, 2025Published
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