Dubai is a dream destination for luxury and supercar enthusiasts. Whether you’re planning to rent a Rolls Royce in Dubai and cruise along the coastline in pure elegance, or roar down Sheikh Zayed Road in a Lamborghini, car rental is easier than ever. But what if you don’t have a credit card? Can you still rent a luxury car in Dubai?
The answer is yes—with the right approach. Here’s how to rent a luxury car in Dubai without a credit card and what you need to know.
1. Find a Rental Company That Accepts Debit Cards or Cash Deposits
While most luxury car rental agencies in Dubai prefer credit cards for security deposits, some do accept debit cards or cash. These agencies are usually more flexible with tourists and short-term visitors.
What to look for:
- “No credit card required” policies
- Cash or bank transfer deposit options
- Accepts international debit cards (Visa/Mastercard)
Tip: Use WhatsApp or email to confirm before booking online.
2. Prepare a Higher Security Deposit
If you’re not using a credit card, most rental companies will require:
- A higher refundable cash deposit (e.g., AED 5,000–10,000)
- Full rental payment in advance
This deposit is kept to cover:
- Traffic fines (which may be delayed)
- Salik toll charges
- Fuel and cleaning fees
- Minor damage or scratches
Refund timelines: Usually 21–30 business days after the car is returned.
3. Use a Family Member’s or Friend’s Credit Card (With Authorization)
Some companies allow you to:
- Pay with someone else’s credit card
- Provide a signed authorization letter and passport copy of the cardholder
This is common for:
- Tourists traveling with family
- Business travelers under company sponsorship
Make sure both names are included in the rental contract to avoid legal complications.
4. Look for Agencies Offering “Pay-on-Delivery” Options
Certain premium rental providers offer cash-on-delivery options where:
- A company representative delivers the vehicle to your hotel/home
- You can pay the rental fee and deposit in cash or debit card on the spot
Ensure you get a written receipt and vehicle condition report during delivery.
5. Have the Right Documentation Ready
Even if you don’t use a credit card, the rest of your documents must be perfect:
- Valid passport
- Tourist visa copy
- Driver’s license (and International Driving Permit if required)
- Local or international debit card / cash for deposit
Missing any of these can disqualify you from renting a car in Dubai.
6. Expect Restrictions or Conditions
When renting without a credit card, you may face:
- A limited vehicle selection (some supercars require card-based security)
- No long-term rentals (usually capped at 3–7 days)
- Stricter inspection rules at vehicle return
- Non-refundable administrative fees
Always read the terms and conditions carefully and clarify all charges upfront.
7. Get Full Insurance Coverage
If you’re not using a credit card (which may offer insurance benefits), it’s strongly advised to upgrade your rental insurance.
Look for:
- Full damage waiver (CDW)
- Theft and liability coverage
- Tire/windshield protection
This reduces your out-of-pocket risk in case of incidents.
Bonus Tip: Use a Travel Debit Card That Offers Coverage
Some travel-focused debit cards (like Wise, Revolut, or Niyo) offer:
- Better FX rates
- Travel insurance or deposit protection
- Temporary virtual cards for transactions
These may be accepted by more flexible rental agencies.
Final Thoughts
Renting a luxury car in Dubai without a credit card is absolutely possible—you just need to plan ahead and choose the right rental partner. Whether you’re in town for business, a honeymoon, or simply want to live the Dubai dream for a day, don’t let a lack of plastic stop you.