Car Rental in Abu Dhabi
Compare car rental rates in Abu Dhabi from licensed local suppliers. From economy hatchbacks to luxury SUVs, with free delivery to AUH airport, hotels, or your residence.
Why rent a car in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi is the largest emirate of the UAE by area, and its main attractions are spread across long distances — Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Louvre Abu Dhabi, Yas Island (Ferrari World, Warner Bros, Yas Marina Circuit), Saadiyat Island beaches, and the Liwa Desert. Public transport works in the city centre, but a car is essentially required for any serious sightseeing.
The city itself is well-designed for driving: wide grid-pattern streets, generous parking (Mawaqif system), clear English signage, and disciplined traffic compared to Dubai. Speed cameras are everywhere — keep within 20 km/h above the limit and you'll be fine.
Abu Dhabi car rental price guide
| Car category | Daily rate from | Weekly rate from | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Economy (Kia Picanto, Nissan Sunny) | 90 AED | 500 AED | City driving, solo travellers |
| Compact (Hyundai Accent) | 110 AED | 600 AED | Couples, short trips |
| Sedan (Toyota Yaris, Nissan Sentra) | 140 AED | 850 AED | Families, comfort travel |
| SUV mid (Renault Duster, Kia Sportage) | 180 AED | 1,100 AED | Liwa Desert, Yas Island trips |
| SUV large (Toyota Prado) | 300 AED | 1,800 AED | Long distance, luxury comfort |
| 7-seater (Toyota Avanza) | 210 AED | 1,300 AED | Larger families, group tours |
All prices include basic insurance and unlimited mileage. Indicative starting prices — final rates depend on supplier and dates.
Pickup and delivery options
Zayed International Airport (AUH)
Most suppliers offer free or 50 AED delivery to AUH. Meet at arrivals or short-term parking — no long shuttle bus rides.
Hotel delivery
Free or 30–50 AED to most central hotels: Corniche, Yas Island, Saadiyat, Al Reem.
Self-pickup at supplier office
Cheapest option — supplier offices are typically near Khalifa City, Mussafah, or downtown.
Cross-emirate one-way
Pick up in Abu Dhabi, drop off in Dubai (or vice versa). Available from many suppliers for a small one-way fee.
Driving from Abu Dhabi — popular trips
- Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque — 15 min from downtown, free parking, dress code applies.
- Louvre Abu Dhabi (Saadiyat Island) — 20 min from downtown, paid parking.
- Yas Island — 25 min from downtown — Ferrari World, Warner Bros, Yas Mall, Yas Marina Circuit.
- Al Ain (UNESCO oasis city) — 90 min east — gardens, museums, mountain views from Jebel Hafeet.
- Liwa Desert (Empty Quarter) — 2.5 hours south — massive dunes, desert resorts, sunset views.
- Dubai — 90 min north on Sheikh Zayed Road — easy day trip.
Toll roads & parking in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi uses the Darb toll system on four bridges to Abu Dhabi island: Sheikh Zayed Bridge, Maqta Bridge, Mussafah Bridge, and Sheikh Khalifa Bridge. Charges of 4 AED apply during peak hours (7–9 AM and 5–7 PM, Sun–Thu); free outside peak. The toll tag is pre-installed in your rental car and charges go to your booking.
Parking: most public parking uses the Mawaqif system, 2 AED/hour for standard zones and 3 AED/hour for premium zones. Pay by SMS, mobile app, or street machines. Hotel and mall parking is usually free for guests/customers.
Driving Rules in the UAE
Other locations across the UAE
Other UAE Pickup Locations
Documents Required
Required for all renters
- Valid driving licence (held 1+ years)
- Passport with valid UAE visa
- Booking voucher / confirmation
- Payment method for the balance
Recommended additional
- International Driving Permit (IDP)
- Second form of ID
- Travel insurance documents
- Hotel booking confirmation
Age requirements
- Minimum age: 21 years
- Under 25: young driver fee may apply
- Luxury cars: 25 or 28 and above
- Some SUVs: minimum 23 years