SAADATRENT Car Rental Customers' Guide, Dubai Branch

Author : Alirezaa | Date : Tuesday 02 April 2024 18:14

If you're reading this, you've likely rented a car in Dubai from SAADATRENT. Regardless, we're genuinely thrilled to have you with us. Here, we start with parking in Dubai and will review all the crucial points and frequently asked questions related to renting a car in Dubai. Lastly, we'll explain what the lesser-known 'Salik' cost is all about.

Parking and Parking Fees in Dubai

Where should I park? What are Dubai's strict rules about parking?

Imagine you've rented a car in Dubai from SaadatRent. Now, finding a place to park can be a concern, especially since many streets in Dubai are devoid of parked cars. This can be quite perplexing for drivers who haven't experienced driving in Dubai before.

Dubai's Parking Zones

Dubai's parking areas are divided into various zones, which you can learn more about below:

• Zone A Parking: This area includes major business districts, tourist hotspots, and densely populated residential areas in Dubai. The charges for parking in Zone A are AED 4 per hour, AED 8 for 2 hours, AED 12 for 3 hours, and AED 16 for 4 hours. There is also a half-hour parking cost of AED 2​​.
• Different Parking Zones: Dubai's parking zones are indeed categorized into various zones, namely Zones A to K. These zones include commercial, non-commercial, and special parking areas. The categorization into Zones A, B, E, and F as mentioned in the provided text was part of an older system. In the current system, there are 11 zones (A to K), each with specific regulations and fees​.
• Free Parking Areas: Many malls in Dubai, like The Dubai Mall, offer free parking, but the provided text doesn't mention the specific duration for free parking at each location. It's also common for metro stations to have free parking facilities. The free parking duration at malls and other specific areas might vary and should be verified directly for accuracy.
• Parking in Residential and Touristic Areas: Zones C and D are mentioned for residential, road, and touristic areas. These zones are part of the broader categorization of Dubai's parking system and are operational at specific times, usually from 8 AM to 10 PM, although exact timings can vary depending on the zone.
• Special Parking Zones: These zones, identified as E, F, G, and extending to H, I, J, and K, are in specific areas like coastal, historical, and heritage regions. Each of these zones has its own set of regulations and fees.

Dubai Parking Zones

In summary, while the provided information is generally correct, it's important to note that Dubai's parking system is extensive and categorized into several zones, each with its own rules and fees. For the most accurate and current information, it's advisable to refer to official sources or signage in the specific parking areas in Dubai.

Parking at Dubai Airport

Parking Options at Terminal 1: Terminal 1 offers both Economy and Premium parking options. There are designated parking areas for passengers with disabilities, which are available in both short-term and long-term parking areas​​​​.

Parking Fees: The hourly parking tariffs at Terminal 1 are varied. For Car Park A - Premium (2-3 mins walk to the terminal), the fees are 5 minutes for 5 AED, 15 minutes for 15 AED, 30 minutes for 30 AED, up to 2 hours for 40 AED, 3 hours for 55 AED, 4 hours for 65 AED, and day 1 for 125 AED. For Car Park B - Economy (7-9 mins walk to the terminal), the fees are 1 hour for 25 AED, 2 hours for 30 AED, 3 hours for 35 AED, 4 hours for 45 AED, and day 1 for 85 AED​​.

Long-Term Parking: Long-term parking is available at Terminal 1 (and Terminal 3). These lots are meant for travelers who need to park their cars for more than a day. Regular shuttle services are available to and from the terminals​​.

Valet Parking: Valet parking services are provided at Terminals 1 and 3, offering a more luxurious experience. Cars can be dropped off at the designated valet parking area, where they will be parked by a professional valet attendant. Upon return, the car will be ready for pickup at the valet area​​.

Premium Parking: Premium parking spaces, located near the terminal entrance for quick access to check-in counters and departure gates, are also available at Terminal 1 (and Terminal 3)​​.

Regarding the specific regulations for car rentals and returning them to the airport, no detailed information was found about the 5,000 AED fine for rental cars entering the main flight arrival and departure lanes at Dubai Airport. It's advisable to check directly with the car rental company or the airport for specific guidelines on returning rental cars and associated fines or fees.

How to Pay for Parking in Dubai

Payment via Mobile SIM Card:

Dubai has two main mobile operators, DU and ETISALAT, both of which allow parking fee payments.
To pay, send an SMS to 7275 with your license plate number, parking zone code, and required parking duration (e.g., B12345 123A1 for one hour at parking zone 123A).
You will receive a confirmation SMS, and the parking fee will be deducted from your prepaid mobile balance.
An SMS reminder will be sent 15 minutes before the expiry of your parking time, allowing you to extend it if needed.
A 5% VAT is applied to the parking fee.\

Payment with Coins:

Some parking areas in Dubai accept coin payments.
Coin-operated machines are available at parking locations, usually colored blue or orange.
Enter your license plate number, parking zone code, and duration, then insert the coins (usually 1 or 2 Dirham coins).
Be mindful of RTA parking attendants or CCTV, as failure to pay can result in a fine ranging from 100 to 150 Dirhams.

Free Parking on Sundays and Overnight:

Parking is generally free on Sundays, a public holiday in the UAE, and in many areas, parking is free from 10 PM to 8 AM.
Be sure to check the specific rules of each parking area, as some offer free night parking.

Mall Parking:

Dubai Mall and other malls typically offer 2 to 3 hours of free parking.
VIP parking areas are not free.

Penalties:

Failure to pay for parking can result in a 150 Dirham fine.
Parking in spaces designated for people with disabilities without a valid permit can incur a fine of 5000 Dirhams.
Additionally, the Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) website lists several other payment methods for parking in Dubai:

RTA Dubai App: Use this mobile app to pay for parking.
NOL Card: This card can be used for parking payments in specified machines.
Seasonal Parking Cards: These allow frequent parking users to avoid individual payments each time.
Apple Pay and Samsung Pay: These services are available for parking payments, with Samsung Pay specifically for multistorey carparks(also known as multilevel, multistory, or parking garage).
Bank Cards with RFID and NFC on Smartphones: For quick and secure transactions, especially in multistorey carparks.
SMS Payment: The mParking Service allows payment via SMS, following a specific format​​.
These methods offer convenient options for residents and visitors in Dubai, ensuring a streamlined parking payment experience.

Salik System in Dubai

Salik Toll Cost: The cost to pass through each Salik toll gate in Dubai is AED 4, not 5 Dirhams as mentioned in the original text. This amount is automatically deducted from a prepaid Salik account linked to each vehicle​​​.

Salik Tag Requirement: To use the highways in Dubai and pass through Salik toll gates, vehicles need to have a Salik tag attached to their windshield. This tag is scanned automatically at each toll gate, facilitating the automatic deduction of the toll fee from the associated prepaid account​​.

Salik Gates Locations:

The current locations of Salik toll gates in Dubai are as follows:

• Al Barsha
• Al Garhoud Bridge
• Al Maktoum Bridge
• Al Mamzar South
• Al Mamzar North
• Al Safa
• Airport Tunnel
• Jebel Ali

Each of these toll gates charges a fee of AED 4. Additionally, passing through Al Mamzar South and North gates in the same direction within an hour results in being charged only once. The toll fee applies throughout the week, except on Sundays and during the night from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM, when passing is free​​.
 
Rental Car and Salik Charges: For those renting cars, like from SaadatRent, the Salik charges incurred during the rental period are typically deducted from the security deposit provided at the time of rental. It's a common practice for rental agencies to manage Salik payments for their customers, as described in the original text.

Refund of Deposit: The deposit, referred to as a security deposit, is usually refunded after the rental period, subject to the deduction of any Salik charges and possible fines incurred during the rental period. The specific period of 25 days for the refund of the deposit after the deduction of Salik charges and fines is a policy that may vary between rental companies.

Other Considerations: The Salik system operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, but there are certain exceptions. For example, passing through Al Mamzar South and North gates in the same direction within an hour results in being charged only once. Additionally, vehicles are exempt from Salik charges on Sundays and during the night from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM​​.

In summary, the Salik system in Dubai imposes an AED 4 charge each time a vehicle passes through a toll gate. This charge is automatically deducted from a linked prepaid account, and vehicles are required to have a Salik tag for this purpose. Rental car users typically have Salik charges deducted from their deposits, and the specifics of the refund process depend on the rental company's policies.

SAADATRENT’s Fuel Policy and Petrol Price in Dubai

• Cars are rented out with the fuel tank either half-full or more than half-full.
• Upon return of the vehicle, the same amount of fuel as at the time of rental must be in the tank. If not, customers are charged for the fuel difference.
• Available fuel types in the UAE include Special 95, Super 98, and E-Plus 91, with minor price differences between them (expressed in fils, where 100 fils equal one Dirham).
• It's recommended to check the fuel prices at the time of travel, though they generally range from about 2 to 3 Dirhams per liter.
• This policy is fairly standard for car rental companies, ensuring that the next customer receives the car with an adequate fuel level. The mention of specific fuel types and the suggestion to check current fuel prices indicate a customer-focused approach to informing renters about potential costs they may encounter.

SIM in Dubai

• Etisalat Tourist SIM Options:

Visitor Line Unlimited Local Data Plans: AED 319.00 for 14 days, AED 200.00 for 7 days, with 5% VAT included​​.
Visitor Line Premium +: AED 200.00 per month, with 5% VAT included​​.
Visitor Line Premium: AED 125.00 per month, with 5% VAT included​​.
Visitor Line +: AED 79.00 per month, with 5% VAT included​​.
Visitor Line: AED 49.00 per month, with 5% VAT included​​.

• DU Tourist SIM Options:

Free SIM: 1GB of Data for 24 Hours.
AED 49: 30 Flexi Mins, 2 GB, Unlimited Internet Calling.
AED 99: 30 Flexi Mins, 6 GB, Unlimited Internet Calling.
AED 139: 30 Flexi Mins, 10 GB, Unlimited Internet Calling.
Other Options: Ranging up to AED 299 for 200 mins and unlimited data for 14 days​​.
These SIM cards are designed for tourists and offer various options to suit different needs. Etisalat and DU provide a range of plans with varying internet data, calling minutes, and validity periods. Both operators offer their SIM cards at airports, making it convenient for tourists to obtain them upon arrival in Dubai.

For the most up-to-date and specific information regarding prices and packages, it's recommended to visit the official websites of Etisalat and DU or contact their customer service centers.
In addition to purchasing local SIM cards from Etisalat or DU, tourists visiting Dubai have the option to activate international roaming on their current SIM cards.

Driving Regulations in Dubai

Driving on the Right Side: In Dubai, like in the rest of the UAE, vehicles drive on the right side of the road.

Child Safety Regulations:

• Children under 13 years old are not allowed to sit in the front seat.
• Children between 4 to 8 years old must sit in a child safety seat.
• The front seat passenger should be at least 145 cm tall and not younger than 10 years old​​.

Seat Belts: It is mandatory for all passengers in a car, including those sitting in the rear seats, to wear seat belts. Failure to comply results in a fine of AED 400 and four black points​​.

Mobile Phone Use: The use of mobile phones while driving, except through a hands-free system like Bluetooth, is prohibited. Violations attract a fine of AED 400 and four black points​​.

Speed Limits: Speed limits in Dubai vary between 40 to 80 km/h in city areas and between 110 to 130 km/h on highways. Exceeding the speed limit by 80 km/h incurs a fine of AED 3,000, 23 black points, and a 60-day vehicle impoundment​​.

Driving Under the Influence: Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol results in a license suspension for one year from the day of the verdict. The court will decide on the fine and/or jail term​​.

Traffic Signal Compliance: Ignoring traffic lights results in a fine of AED 1,000, a penalty of 12 points, and a one-month vehicle seizure​​.

Other Violations: This includes reckless driving, blocking traffic, jumping red signals, sudden swerving, driving without a number plate, throwing garbage, not leaving a safe distance between vehicles, overtaking on the hard shoulder, crowding around accident sites, using quad-bikes on the road, jaywalking, violating technical and safety issues, using expired tires, driving without insurance/car registration, driving a noisy vehicle, and illegally transporting passengers​​.

Cleanliness of Vehicles: Driving with an excessively dirty or unkempt vehicle is also subject to fines, though this specific regulation was not found in the official sources and might be less strictly enforced.

These rules are part of the UAE's amended federal traffic law, which came into effect on July 1, 2017, aiming to protect the lives of road users and reduce traffic casualties​​. Violating these regulations can result in heavy fines and penalties, emphasizing the importance of adhering to traffic laws while driving in Dubai.

Driving Penalties in Dubai

• Dangerous Driving: AED 1,000 fine.
• Evading a Police Officer: AED 800 fine.
• Causing Death or Damage: Determined by the judge.
• Parking in a No Parking Area: AED 1,000 fine.
• Driving Without a Fastened Seatbelt: AED 400 fine.
• Child Safety (Under 10 Years Old in Front Seat): AED 400 fine.
• Failure to Give Way to Emergency Vehicles: AED 500 fine.
• Jumping a Red Light: AED 1,000 fine.
• Failure to Follow Traffic Signs: AED 500 fine.
• Driving with a License Issued by a Foreign Country: AED 400 fine.
• Illegal Parking on Road Shoulder (Non-Emergency): AED 200 fine.
• Broken Signal Lights: AED 200 fine.
• No License Plates: AED 1,000 fine​​.

For driving under the influence of alcohol, narcotics, or painkillers, the penalties are severe but specific details like the amount of the fine are determined by the court. The penalties typically include heavy fines, black points, and possible vehicle impoundment or imprisonment.

It's crucial for drivers in Dubai to adhere to these regulations to avoid penalties and ensure safety on the roads.

The Smoking Policy of SaadatRent

If you're a smoker and intend to smoke in the car, be aware that Saadat Rent charges a fee of 150 AED for a comprehensive car wash if you smoke in their vehicles. They provide specific vehicles for smokers, and if you don't notify them in advance that you plan to smoke in the car, the company may charge you an additional fee ranging from 200 to 400 AED.

Car Insurance and Accident Procedures for Rental Cars from SaadatRent in Dubai

All rental vehicles from SaadatRent are covered under comprehensive insurance policies, and you can choose from various insurance options when booking your vehicle online. In the event of an accident, you should first contact a representative from SaadatRent for complete guidance. Then, without leaving the location of the accident, download the Dubai Police app on your phone. Enter the vehicle's license plate number and the accident's location into the app, along with relevant accident photos. This process, which must be done by the driver at the accident site, allows you to leave the scene without waiting for police presence. However, the administrative steps to obtain a police report (accident diagram) and handle related expenses with the insurance company are managed by SaadatRent's technical support staff.

Return of Security Deposit

Your security deposit will be refunded to you after you return the rental car. However, a portion of it will be retained for one month to cover any potential traffic fines. If any fines are incurred, they will be deducted from this amount.

Car Delivery and Return Locations

When you make your reservation, you can choose your preferred location for both the delivery and return of the rental car.

Additional Costs Associated with Car Rental in Dubai:

• Car Wash and Fuel Charges: The rental car will be delivered to you either fully or partially fueled and cleaned. If the car is not returned in the same condition, a car wash fee of 25 AED will be charged. If the fuel level is lower than at the time of delivery, the difference will be deducted from your deposit based on current fuel prices.
• Delivery and Return Charges: While picking up and returning the car at Saadat Rent's JVC branch or designated parking areas is free, a nominal transfer fee may apply if you choose a different location.
• Excess Kilometer Charges: Standard rental allows for 250 kilometers per day. For example, a 5-day rental permits a total of 1000 kilometers. Extra charges are rare but applicable if the limit is exceeded.
• Rental Extension: If you need the car for additional days, you can contact Saadat Rent to extend the reservation, subject to the car's availability. It's advisable to contact them a few days in advance, especially during peak holiday times, to ensure availability.

Smoking in the Car:

If you smoke in the car, Saadat Rent charges a fee of 150 AED for a comprehensive car wash. Specific vehicles are designated for smokers, and if you don't notify them in advance about your intention to smoke in the car, you may be subject to a cleaning fee of 200 to 400 AED.

"When you receive your rental car, you will be given a contract document containing all the relevant information. This document serves as the official paperwork for the vehicle and is sufficient to present to the police if needed. It's crucial to always carry this document with you during the rental period."

LAST WORD

We hope this information has provided comprehensive answers to all your queries regarding car rentals, driving regulations, and related policies in Dubai. If you have any more questions or need further clarification, please feel free to leave a comment, and our agents will respond as soon as possible. Wishing you a safe and enjoyable trip! Have a great journey!

FAQs

Frequently asked questions.

What do I need to rent a car in Dubai?

Car rental conditions with and without a driver in Dubai are different. For more information, you can refer to the Required documents for car rental in Dubai page.

How can I rent a car in Dubai with a tourist visa?

If you are visiting the UAE as a tourist and wish to rent a car, you must have a valid International Driving Permit (IDP), also known as an International Driving License, as well as your original driving license from your home country.