Renting a vehicle in Dubai is convenient as well as an efficient way to explore the city at your own pace. However, many car rental agencies require credit cards for security purposes and for booking a vehicle. In case you don’t have any credit card, this guide can help you to navigate the process of renting in Dubai. Let’s get started:
Why are credit cards preferred for car rentals?
In Dubai, credit cards are preferred by car rental companies because they offer a great level of assurance and security. A hold is placed on the car to cover the potential damages and extra charges. It’ll significantly minimize the risk of any liability to the car rental company. As the market evolves many car rental in Dubai agencies, there’re also some alternative payment methods to fulfill the customers’ needs. It includes a cash deposit debit card as well as payment applications.
Step by step guide to rent a car without credit card in Dubai
If you want to rent a car without a credit card in Dubai, follow these steps carefully.
Research for car rental companies
The initial step is to identify the car rental companies in Dubai that accept alternative payment methods. Keep in consideration that not all companies advertise this option. Therefore, deep research is important. Many companies are famous for their flexible payment options and rent a car in Dubai without a deposit policy. Whereas, many accept debit cards with additional conditions. However, some local companies in the city also offer flexibility in payment options. That’s why deep research of a company is necessary to find out.
Prepare for necessary documents
Documentation is one of the crucial steps while renting a car without a credit card in Dubai. Make sure you have the following documents with you:
- Passport is essential for the identification process during the rental purpose.
- If you are a foreign traveler, an international driving permit is also necessary.
- Some companies also ask for a return ticket to ensure that you will leave the country.
- Proof of residence is also required by some companies that may include utility bills or rental agreement as a proof.
- Bank statements can also be requested to ensure that you have sufficient funds to cover the car rental charges.
Make a reservation
After the process of choosing a car rental company, make your reservation in advance. During the booking process you have to:
- Clearly indicate that you’re going to use a cash, debit card or any other payment method for deposit and security purposes.
- Enquiry about additional requirements or deposit charges especially for non credit card payments.
Understand that deposit requirement
Keep in consideration that many car rental companies in Dubai will need a deposit for security purposes. If you don’t have a credit card, the deposit might be higher and can be paid in cash or with a debit card. That’s why it is important to be prepared for a significant cash deposit that will be refunded upon returning the vehicle in good condition. If you’re using a debit card, ensure that you have sufficient funds in your account.
Pick up the car
After presenting all the above listed documents, now it’s time to pick up your rented vehicle. Pay the deposit using your selected method and inspect your car thoroughly. If you find any pre existing damage it is important to document in the agreement to avoid any dispute later or additional surcharges
During the car rental period
While renting a car in Dubai, it’s mandatory to follow the strict traffic rules of Dubai, otherwise the fine can be hefty. Make sure that you’ll return the vehicle with the same level of fuel as it was before when you pick up. Follow the rules carefully and keep the car clean. Many companies in Dubai also charge cleaning fees for dirty vehicles.
Returning of car
When you’re going to return the vehicle to the company, they’ll inspect the vehicle to confirm that there is no new damage. The customers should also be sure that the deposit is refunded, if you pay it in the form of cash as soon as possible.
Credit card alternatives to use for car rental Dubai
When renting a car in Dubai or in UAE, these alternatives are used instead of credit card:
Debit card
Debit card is one of the most common alternatives to use for renting a car in Dubai. One of the significant benefits of debit cards is its wide acceptance as many companies are willing to accept it as a form of payment. Along with this, the debit card payment is directly taken from your bank account that means you can avoid associated interest charges. However, many companies may need a higher deposit for security purposes while using a debit card which can temporarily hold a significant amount of your money. That’s the reason it is important to ensure that you have enough balance in the account to cover both rental and deposit fees.
Cash Deposit
Cash is another alternative to credit cards for rent in a vehicle in Dubai. In this method, no bank is involved, which means there’s no need for bank approval as the transactions are immediate and straight forward. However, cash deposits are higher than credit and debit cards and carrying a large amount of money might be risky. Along with this, cash deposits may take longer to be refunded which can be inconvenient for the customers
Bank transfer
Bank transfer is another reliable option to rent a vehicle without a credit card. In this method, the payment is deducted directly from your bank account and enhances the security as compared to carrying a large amount of money. However, bank transfer is time consuming and requires advanced arrangements. In order to use a bank transfer, make sure that you have correct details of the car rental company and understand that it will take time to refund.
Digital payment apps
Many car rental companies in Dubai also accept digital payment apps like PayPal, Google Pay and Apple Pay. It’s one of the convenient and secure ways to transact without sharing credit card details. These digital payment apps also allow easy transactions to enhance the overall rental experience. To use this method, it’s important to confirm with the car rental company if they accept payment through the app.
