Driving in a car rental in Dubai has always been the most favored way of exploring and getting around the city by tourists and residents. However, as more car rental companies open in the city, more scams and hidden costs are brought into the rental scene. Falling into a trap set by one of these vultures is easy and it may sour your experience in Dubai. In this blog post, we will inform you about common fraudulent schemes that pin down naive renters and safe ways to rent a car in Dubai.
Understanding Common Rental Car Scams
The worldwide spread of rental car scams has not spared Dubai. Knowing about these scams can help you stay from becoming a victim of one:
- The False Damage Scam
In this scheme, rental companies falsely claim damage to the car upon return, which they blame on the renter. To avoid this, always inspect and document the state of the car rental in Dubai. Do so before and after your rental, and notify any pre-existing damage to the agency immediately.
- Fuel Refill Scams
Some rental companies may demand you to make an advance payment for a full tank of petrol and let you return the car with an empty tank. The payment they demand is high, which means you lose money if you return the car with any petrol left in it. To avoid this, select car rental companies with reasonable fuel policies or opt for a 'full-to-full' arrangement in which you return the car rental with the same level of petrol as when you acquired it.
- Unnecessary Insurance
Be wary of overly insistent salespeople as their pushy methods may have you paying for unnecessary insurance coverage. Car rentals in Dubai already have basic insurance and it is up to you to purchase a comprehensive insurance coverage. Before obtaining extra insurance from the rental agency, double-check your coverage.
- Overbooking and No Availability
Rental businesses may overbook their car rentals in some situations, leaving renters stranded. Always verify your reservation before arriving to ensure that your preferred car rental is available.
Uncovering Hidden Fees
Being aware of car rental scams is not enough, you must also familiarize yourself with the basic hidden costs associated with car rentals in Dubai. Here are a few hidden costs to look out for in your rental agreement when you rent a car in Dubai:
- Airport Surcharges
Many car rental companies charge extra to drop the rental car at the Dubai airport. Consider going to a nearby place and having the rental company drop off your rental car.
- Mileage Limitations
Make sure to check the rental agreement for any mileage limitations. If you surpass the mentioned distance, certain agencies may charge you a per-mile fee.
- Early Return Penalties
Many renters assume that returning a car rental early is a good way to save some bucks, however, some rental companies may take this as you breaking the contract conditions and toss an extra charge to your bill. This is why you must carefully read your rental agreement and understand the terms and conditions mentioned.
- Additional Driver Fees
If you intend to have multiple individuals drive the car rental in Dubai, keep in mind that some companies may have additional fees to pay to include extra drivers. Consider renting a car from companies with inclusive policies to prevent this.
Tips for a Smooth Rental Experience
Keep the following guidelines in mind to guarantee a stress-free rental experience:
- Book in Advance
To rent a car in Dubai with ease, book in advance as this doesn't just guarantee the availability of the car rental, but also allows you to look around for the best price and terms.
- Read the Fine Print
Something that often gets ignored by almost every renter is the fine print. This is where rental companies often disclose their hidden costs, so make sure to scour your rental agreement before signing.
- Clarify All Fees
If you have any questions concerning the fees or charges, please contact the rental agency. A reputable rental company will have no problem giving a clear explanation.
- Return the Car on Time
Avoid additional costs by returning the car at the specified place and time mentioned in the rental contract.
- Keep Records
Photographs, notes, and receipts should be used to record your rental experience. This can be crucial proof if you disagree with the agency in the future.
Conclusion
When you rent a car in Dubai, you unpack the city's offerings at your pace among the many other benefits. However, getting a clear grasp on the rental car scams and hidden fees rampant in the city is essential to ensure a seamless and budget-friendly experience. So, keep yourself informed, stay vigilant, and confidently glide across the Dubai streets.
