Dubai is one of those cities where comfort and convenience matter a lot. The attractions are spread out, the weather can be unforgiving, and moving from one place to another isn’t always as simple as hailing a taxi. That’s why many visitors and even residents prefer renting a car with a driver. It takes away the stress of navigating traffic or finding parking, and instead lets you enjoy the ride.
But the question everyone asks before booking is: how much does it actually cost to rent a car in Dubai with a driver? The short answer is that it depends on the type of car, how long you need it for, and the kind of service you want. The longer answer, though, is a little more interesting.
Why People Choose a Car With a Driver
Driving in Dubai is possible for tourists, but it’s not always ideal. Roads are busy, rules are strict, and if you’re new, finding your way around can be confusing. On top of that, parking in some areas is expensive and hard to find.
Having a driver means you don’t need to worry about any of that. You can simply sit back, relax in air-conditioned comfort, and focus on your plans for the day. Many people also prefer it because it feels safer, especially when traveling with family or kids. For business travelers, it makes a professional impression too.
What Affects the Cost
The cost of renting a car with a driver in Dubai is not one-size-fits-all. It changes based on different factors. The type of car is probably the biggest one. A basic sedan will always be cheaper than a luxury Mercedes or a Range Rover. If you’re just looking for transport from A to B, you can save money by going with something simple. But if you want a more premium experience, there are endless luxury options available.
The duration also matters. Some people only need a car for airport pickup or a couple of hours, while others rent for a full day or even multiple days. Naturally, the longer you keep the car, the better the package deal you’ll usually get.
Another factor is distance. Most rentals within Dubai are straightforward, but if you plan to go to Abu Dhabi or other cities, the price can increase because of the extra kilometers. Also, not every rental automatically includes things like fuel, tolls (known as Salik), or parking fees, so it’s always smart to double-check what is and isn’t included before confirming.
Average Prices in Dubai
So, what should you expect to pay? The range is pretty wide, but here’s a general idea. If you go for a standard sedan such as a Toyota Camry or a Nissan Altima with a driver, the daily cost is usually around AED 500 to AED 700.
If you want something a bit more premium, like a Lexus ES or a Mercedes E-Class, then you’re looking at AED 800 to AED 1,200 per day. Luxury cars like a Mercedes S-Class or a BMW 7 Series are at the higher end and can cost anywhere between AED 1,500 and AED 2,000 per day with a driver.
SUVs such as a Toyota Land Cruiser or a Range Rover fall in the middle, often between AED 1,200 and AED 1,600 per day. And if you’re traveling with a larger group, vans like a Mercedes V-Class or a Kia Carnival are popular choices and cost roughly AED 900 to AED 1,300 per day.
Of course, these are average prices. The actual rate depends on the company, the car model, and the season.
Hourly vs Daily Rentals
Not everyone needs a car for an entire day. Some companies allow you to book by the hour. For example, you could hire a car with a driver for around AED 120 to AED 200 per hour, which is useful if you just need transport for a meeting, a shopping trip, or a short city tour.
For people arriving at the airport, fixed transfers are also very common. A sedan from Dubai International Airport to Downtown might cost around AED 150 to AED 250, while a luxury option will be more.
Daily rentals usually cover 8 to 10 hours with a driver, so if you know you’ll be out and about most of the day, this often works out to be more cost-effective.
Extra Costs You Might Face
It’s important to know that not everything is always included in the quoted price. Some companies include fuel, Salik tolls, and parking, while others charge separately. Going overtime beyond the agreed hours can also result in extra costs.
If you’re traveling outside Dubai, like to Abu Dhabi, you’ll usually be asked to pay an additional amount for the longer journey. That’s why it’s always best to ask the rental company to give you a clear breakdown before you confirm the booking.
Is It Worth the Price?
For most people, the answer is yes. Having a driver makes life easier in a city like Dubai. You don’t need to think about directions, traffic rules, or where to leave the car. Instead, you can simply focus on your plans, whether that’s business meetings, sightseeing, or enjoying a night out.
The comfort is another big plus. Imagine sitting in a cool, spacious car while someone else takes care of everything. If you choose a luxury model, the ride itself becomes part of the experience. For business travelers, arriving in a chauffeur-driven car also adds a sense of professionalism and class.
When you add all of these benefits together, the cost often feels justified, especially if you’re splitting it with family or colleagues.
Tips for Getting the Best Deal
If you’re looking to save money, booking in advance usually helps. Prices can be higher if you wait until the last minute. It also pays to compare different rental companies rather than settling for the first one you find.
Some providers offer discounts for weekly or monthly bookings, so if you’re staying in Dubai for a while, it may work out cheaper to commit to a longer rental. It’s also smart to confirm what’s included in the price so you’re not surprised later by extra fuel or toll charges.
Final Thoughts
So, how much does it cost to rent a car in Dubai with a driver? In simple terms, it can be anywhere between AED 500 and AED 2,000 per day, depending on the car you choose and the type of service you want. There’s something for every budget, from economy sedans to luxury limousines.
For tourists, business travelers, or even locals who want stress-free transport, renting a car with driver can be one of the best decisions to make in Dubai. It’s not just about getting from one place to another, it’s about enjoying the journey without the hassle
