Rent a Car in Dubai without a Credit Card: How it Works

October 2, 2025 Robert Hancock 0 Comments

Many travelers in Dubai are now searching for budget-friendly car rental options that don’t require a credit card. Traditionally, rental agencies have asked for a deposit of around 1,000–3,000 AED, which had to be secured with a credit card. Today, several providers make it easier to rent a car in Dubai by accepting debit cards, cash, or prepaid cards. This flexibility is especially beneficial for tourists and residents managing expenses on a tighter budget.

What alternatives to a credit card are possible?

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Debit card (Visa/Mastercard)

Examples: Many car rental companies accept debit, but take a real deposit deduction (~1,500-3,000 AED), which is refunded after 21-30 days.

Cash (cash deposit)

Local rental companies (Wheels on Rent, UAEdriving) allow you to pay a cash deposit of 1,000-5,000 AED.

Electronic payments and bank transfer

Some accept digital wallets (Apple Pay, PayPal), bank transfer, or even crypto.

No deposit (deposit-free)

Many car rentals have a “no deposit” option — pay a fixed fee instead of withholding.

Documents and requirements

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  • Passport + visa or Emirates ID (for residents)
  • Driver’s license (international, if necessary)
  • Debit card with minimum balance or cash
  • Some companies require an income statement or an account statement.

The cost of rent and deposit

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  • Economy and budget cars: from 100-150 AED (~27-41 USD) per day.
  • SUVsand family cars: 150-300 AED/day with a deposit of 2,000-3,000 AED.
  • Luxury class: deposit of 4,000-5,000 AED and above, companies sometimes require a credit card for premium cars.

Why is the deposit higher and why insurance

Without a credit card, the distributor is at risk, so:

  • It holds the entire deposit, not just freezes it.
  • Requires full insurance (CDW or zero-excess) to minimize risk.
  • The bank can often transfer expenses to a debit a week or a month later, which explains the delays in refunds.

Tips from an economical traveler

  • Compare parameters: look for “deposit-free” or “debit accepted” on platforms like UAEdriving
  • Book in advance: many offer improved conditions if you pay by debit or cash.
  • Choose packages with included insurance to avoid unnecessary risks.
  • Read the contract: specify the deadline for the return of the deposit, possible fees, fuel requirements and the return of the car.

The best distributors without a credit card

  • Speedy Drive Car Rental — always debit and cash options, no deposit option.
  • Roll Rent Car — a wide range, from 120 AED/day, deposit 1-5 000 AED,
  • UAEdriving — machines from 90 AED/day, debit/cash is possible.
  • Wheels on Rent — cash deposit, refund after verification.

Results

So, budget car rental without a credit card is quite real in Dubai if:

  • Are you ready to make an additional deposit amount,
  • Take out extended insurance,
  • Choose the right company with flexible terms,
  • And read the contract carefully.

This allows you to rent a car safely, even without having a credit card, and plan your trip flexibly and conveniently.