One-Way Car Rental from Dubai to Abu Dhabi | Compare Prices & Fees

Home One-way Car Rentals Dubai to Abu Dhabi

Document required for international visitors

Driving Licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements. The licence should be held for at least 1-2 years.
Form of ID: A valid physical United Arab Emirates national photo ID
Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Supported cards include Visa, Master, AMEX, DinersClub, JCB, and UnionPay.
Age requirements: Drivers must be between 21-75 years old. For drivers aged 21-24, a young driver fee may apply: AED 10 per day (capped at AED 100) or USD 5 per day, depending on the rental terms.

Driving Licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements. The licence should be held for at least 1-2 years. GCC Nationals (Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, UAE) must provide their valid GCC Driving Licence. Customers from Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Great Britain, Ireland, Italy, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Romania, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and the USA can drive without an International Driving Permit (IDP). All others must present an IDP with their national licence. Korean, Japanese, Turkish, and Greek nationals need an embassy-approved translation of their licence. Alternatively, an original driving licence with an IDP or a full UAE-issued driver's licence is acceptable.

Notes: Please note that an International Driving Permit (IDP) is only a translation. You must present your original driving licence with the original IDP at the counter.
Form of ID: A valid passport
Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Supported cards include Visa, Master, AMEX, DinersClub, JCB, and UnionPay.
Age requirements: Drivers must be between 21-75 years old. For drivers aged 21-24, a young driver fee may apply: AED 10 per day (capped at AED 100) or USD 5 per day, depending on the rental terms.

One-way rentals typically includes a drop-off fee, depending on the company and distance. Below are approximate rates for different vehicle types:

Cheapest Economy Rate

Starting from

Cheapest SUV Rate

Starting from

Vehicle Types

Vehicle Types	Daily Rate(One-way Fee Included)	One-way Fee	Total(3-day Trip)	Best For
Small	US$ 37-247	US$ 0.00-103.26	US$ 65-384	Solo travelers, couples
Medium	US$ 41-58	US$ 0.00-0.00	US$ 67-101	Small families, light luggage
Large	US$ 54-282	US$ 0.00-103.26	US$ 87-448	Families, comfort seeker
SUV	US$ 43-186	US$ 0.00-103.26	US$ 68-267	Large groups, long drivers
Premium	US$ 64-260	US$ 0.00-83.08	US$ 144-562	Families, comfort seeker
Van	US$ 58-221	US$ 0.00-103.26	US$ 101-300	Large families, groups

What should I pay attention to for a one-way rental?

Key Consideration：

One-Way Fees: When renting a car for a one-way trip, a one-way fee may apply, covering the cost of repositioning the car to its original location.
Cross-Border Restrictions: Confirm that the route does not violate any cross-border restrictions set by the rental company, especially between city jurisdictions.
Fuel Policy: Ensure you return the car with the agreed fuel level and check the nearest gas stations near your return location.
Vehicle Type: Choose a vehicle suitable for both city navigating in Dubai and highway driving to Abu Dhabi, considering luggage and passenger comfort.
Rental Period: Understand the rental duration and check for time flexibility to avoid late fees during the return.

Smart Planning Tips:

Book in Advance: Reserve your vehicle early to ensure availability, especially during peak travel seasons.
Plan Your Route: Using navigation tools, plan your trip from Dubai to Abu Dhabi, including scheduled stops.
Insurance Check: Confirm insurance coverage for one-way rentals and inquire about add-ons like roadside assistance.
Parking Consideration: Find out about parking options at Abu Dhabi for vehicle return and explore alternatives where required.
Local Driving Rules: Familiarize yourself with driving policies and road behavior rules to ensure a hassle-free experience.

Insurance: A Critical Consideration

Rental car insurance is essential for peace of mind on your journey. Counter rates can be expensive, often adding $20-40 per day to your rental cost.

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Book Earlier for Better Rates

Car rental prices fluctuate based on demand and availability. Booking in advance typically secures better rates, especially during peak travel seasons.

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Refueling, Parking and Tolls

Refueling

Parking

Tolls

Gas Stations near Drop-off Locations

ADNOC Service Station | Al Ghurrah (993) - شارع المطار الدولي - Zayed City - MZ13 - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates

Adnoc Fuel Depot - CJJP+MPF - Al Matar - Zayed International Airport - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates

Fuel Efficiency Tips

Maintain a steady speed to improve fuel efficiency.

Avoid carrying unnecessary weight in the car.

Ensure tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure.

Dubai Parking

Use the RTA Dubai app to locate and pay for parking conveniently.

Parking in Dubai is generally available in designated areas, with charges applicable depending on the zone and duration.

Abu Dhabi Parking

Avoid parking in unauthorized areas to prevent fines.

Abu Dhabi offers ample parking spaces, regulated by the Mawaqif system, which requires payment through SMS or the app.

Recommended Parking Apps

Apps like 'RTA Dubai' and 'Mawaqif' can help users find or book parking in advance.

Tolls and FasTrak

Ensure your rental car is equipped with a Salik tag for automatic toll payment.

Plan your route to minimize toll expenses if possible.

The route includes toll gates such as Salik in Dubai, which charges AED 4 per gate.

Popular Self-Drive Routes

Main Routes between Dubai and Abu Dhabi:

E11 Highway

Main Highway Route 1 hour 30 minutes

This is the quickest and most direct route between Dubai and Abu Dhabi, consisting of a high-speed highway with smooth roads.

Ibn Battuta Mall , Ghantoot Exit , Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

E311 Highway

Alternative Highway Route 1 hour 50 minutes

An alternative parallel route with moderate traffic and scenic desert landscapes along the way.

Jebel Ali Freezone , Last Exit Al Qudra , Yas Island

Coastal Road

Scenic Coastal Route 2 hours

A leisurely drive with views of the Arabian Gulf, ideal for those looking for a relaxed journey.

La Mer Dubai , Jumeirah Beach Residency , Louvre Abu Dhabi

Popular Stops Along the Journey:

Ibn Battuta Mall

20 minutes from Dubai

A grand mall themed around the travels of the famous explorer Ibn Battuta, offering shopping and dining experiences.

Ghantoot Marina

50 minutes from Dubai

A serene marina with opportunities for watersports and relaxation by the coast.

Yas Marina Circuit

1 hour 15 minutes from Dubai

The famous Formula One racing circuit, a must-see for motorsport enthusiasts.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

1 hour 30 minutes from Dubai

A stunning architectural masterpiece and one of the largest mosques in the world.

Road Trip Planning Tips

Choose the right vehicle: Select a car comfortable for your group size and appropriate for the traffic conditions on UAE roads.

Compare rental costs: Use comparison websites to find the best prices, and look out for any hidden fees in rental agreements.

Plan your route: Review the roads and traffic conditions in advance to avoid unnecessary delays.

Refuel efficiently: Locate petrol stations along the route and ensure your car has enough fuel for the trip.

Carry a navigation tool: Bring a reliable GPS device or map app to stay on track without disruptions.

Take breaks at viewpoints: Stop at scenic spots and landmarks along the way to enjoy the sights and make your journey memorable.

How to Choose Car Rental Companies

When selecting a car rental company for a one-way journey from Dubai to Abu Dhabi, consider factors like availability, fees, vehicle options, and customer service experience. Here are some options:

Company	One-Way Fee	Fleet Variety	Location Coverage	Key Advantage
Hertz	$$	★★★★☆	★★★★★	Wide range of vehicles , 24/7 customer support , Well-established network
Europcar	$$	★★★★☆	★★★★☆	Affordable pricing , Easy booking process , Flexible cancellation policies
Avis	$$$	★★★★★	★★★★★	High-end luxury options , Frequent discounts , Premium memberships available
Budget	$	★★★☆☆	★★★★☆	Cheapest rates , Friendly staff , Good for short trips

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Selection Criteria for One-Way Rentals:

Pricing Considerations

Base rental rate per day
One-way drop-off fees
Additional driver charges
Insurance costs
Fuel policy and potential charges

Vehicle Selection

Vehicle size for passengers and luggage
Fuel efficiency for long drives
Comfort features for highway driving
Navigation and entertainment systems
Vehicle condition and mileage

Company Reliability

Customer service reputation
Transparency in fees and policies
Roadside assistance coverage
Cancellation and modification policies
Reviews from other one-way renters

Dubai Airport Car Rental Center Information

Operational Hours:

Car rental counters are open 24/7 at the Dubai International Airport (DXB).

Location:

The rental center is located on the arrivals floor near Terminal 3, with easy indoor and outdoor signage.

Shuttle Service:

Frequent shuttles to and from all airport terminals at 10-min intervals.

Book in advance during holiday periods to secure your preferred vehicle and avoid long waiting times.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I book a one-way car rental from Dubai to Abu Dhabi?

Yes, most car rental companies allow you to book a one-way rental between Dubai and Abu Dhabi. However, fees or restrictions might apply. It's recommended to confirm details with the rental provider.

Are there any additional charges for a one-way rental?

Additional charges, known as drop-off fees, may apply for leaving the car at a different location. Check with your rental provider for exact fees and policies.

What documentation do I need for a car rental in the UAE?

Typically, you will need a valid driver's license, passport or Emirates ID, and a credit or debit card for the booking. If you're an international traveler, an international driving permit (IDP) might also be required.

How far is the drive from Dubai to Abu Dhabi and how long does it take?

The drive between Dubai and Abu Dhabi is approximately 140 km (87 miles) and typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic and your starting and ending points within the cities.

Can I select the type of vehicle for my rental?

Yes, most rental companies offer a range of vehicles, including economy cars, SUVs, and luxury vehicles. You can usually choose the type of car when booking, based on availability.

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