The UAE offers a diverse car rental market, with options ranging from economy hatchbacks to ultra-luxury sports cars. Whether you’re a tourist looking for an affordable daily driver or a local craving a high-end SUV, UAE car rental providers deliver a mix of choices. In this guide we rank ten of the top rental companies operating in the UAE as of September 2025. We consider their services, vehicle fleets, service area, and special features.
List of Top 10 Car Rental Companies in UAE
1. Octane Rent Dubai’s Luxury & Sports Fleet
Octane car rental is based in Dubai and specializes in high-end and performance cars. Its fleet features luxury sedans, sports cars and premium SUVs (e.g. BMWs, Porsches, Range Rovers) maintained in top condition. The company emphasizes no-hidden-fee pricing and flexible delivery customers can pick up or drop off vehicles at airports or any convenient location. Octane targets tourists and enthusiasts who want a luxury driving experience.

Unlike mainstream rentals, Octane offers 24/7 online booking, flexible rental periods (daily, weekly, or monthly), and many models are available without a deposit. Vehicles come fully insured and equipped (most cars feature built-in navigation systems, and some models also support Apple CarPlay). While its rates are higher than economy rentals, Octane often undercuts competitors on price for luxury models. In summary, Octane fills the niche for affordable supercar and luxury car rentals, complementing the broader offerings of the other top companies.
2. Budget Rent A Car Affordable Rentals Across Emirates
Budget Rent A Car (owned by Avis Budget Group) focuses on economy and budget-conscious rentals. It has several city and airport branches offering basic compact cars, sedans, and small SUVs at affordable rates. Budget typically has lower daily and weekly prices than full-service brands, targeting residents and tourists seeking good value.

Despite the name, Budget vehicles are well-maintained and often newer models. As part of the larger Avis Group, booking a Budget car also grants access to Avis’s network and benefit programs. Budget’s services include flexible pickup/drop-off locations and optional add-ons (GPS, child seats, insurance) to suit different renters. It’s a go-to choice for cost-sensitive customers and those planning longer term rentals (monthly plans often available).
3. Diamondlease Corporate and Fleet Rentals
Diamondlease, part of the Al Habtoor Group, has one of the largest fleets in the UAE (over 14,000 vehicles) and has served the market since 1996. Its inventory ranges from economy compacts and SUVs to specialized trucks and buses. Diamondlease caters especially to corporate clients and long-term leases, offering both daily rentals and extended leasing solutions.

Beyond standard rentals, they provide services like chauffeur-driven valet cars, school transport, and 24/7 roadside assistance with recovery vehicles. With about 10 branches spread across the UAE, Diamondlease covers major Emirates and cities, making it a go-to for businesses or anyone needing large-scale, professional fleet services. The company’s standout features are its massive dealer-maintained fleet and full-service approach from payroll-style fleet management to maintenance which distinguishes it in the rental market.
4. Europcar Premium International Service
Europcar (part of the global Europcar Mobility Group) emphasizes premium and business-friendly rentals. The parent group operates in 130+ countries, offering everything from budget brands to luxury cars. In the UAE, Europcar provides a “polished, business- and leisure-friendly experience” with a broad mix of vehicle classes. Its fleet includes premium sedans, SUVs, and even subscription-based electric or hybrid models, as well as economy cars.

Europcar highlights flexible options like car sharing and subscription services. Under new management, Europcar continues expanding and innovating, making it a reliable choice for travelers who want internationally recognized service and a range of vehicles for any budget. Locations include key airports and city centers in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, and online booking is available. Europcar’s focus is on quality service and choice customers expect high standards and convenient support, whether they rent a compact car or an executive vehicle.
5. Shift Car Rental Vans and Corporate Mobility
Shift Car Rental specializes in commercial and utility rentals. It mainly serves corporate and institutional clients, offering medium- and long-term leasing solutions. Shift’s fleet includes utility vans, trucks and also passenger cars (brands like Nissan, Infiniti, Kia, Chevrolet, Jeep) suitable for business use. The company prides itself on professional service: a dedicated team of fleet experts and certified technicians ensures vehicles (especially heavier vans/trucks) are well maintained.

It provides 24/7 roadside assistance and fleet management support for its clients. Coverage is UAE-wide, with multiple depots in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah. Standout aspects of Shift are its robust commercial vehicle offerings and tailor-made corporate packages. Businesses often choose Shift for reliable long-term rentals and commercial transport needs, backed by the reputations of AW Rostamani’s support and service infrastructure.
6. Autostrad Rent A Car Full-Spectrum Rentals
Autostrad Rent A Car has been in the UAE market for over 20 years, serving tourists, families and companies. It offers a comprehensive range of personal and commercial vehicles: sedans, SUVs, pickups, vans and even minibuses. Autostrad provides short-term daily rentals for visitors and monthly lease plans for residents. Corporate clients can opt for long-term leases with full maintenance and 24/7 support. In fact, Autostrad’s fleet spans basic economy cars to luxury models, making it quite versatile.

The company’s strength lies in its wide availability (numerous branches across Dubai, Abu Dhabi and other emirates) and customer-friendly policies. For example, Autostrad Rent A Car provides flexible rental durations and accepts driver’s licenses from many countries. Its standout feature is the combination of old-school reliability and a large network: as one review notes, Autostrad has “strong service infrastructure across the UAE,” making it easy to rent or return a car anywhere. Overall, Autostrad is known for variety and convenience, appealing equally to budget travelers and business renters.
7. Dollar UAE Budget-Friendly Deals
Dollar UAE (part of the Hertz/Avis group) focuses on value. Its fleet includes economy and compact cars, family sedans, SUVs and a sprinkling of higher-end models. Dollar emphasizes competitive pricing and frequent promotions. For short-term vacations or extended trips, customers appreciate Dollar’s flexible terms like a personal leasing program that mimics ownership perks without commitment. Corporate clients can customize fleet packages with maintenance support.

Reviewers mention Dollar’s dependable service and online ease-of-use. Its key features include regular special offers and 24/7 roadside assistance. Renting through Dollar is usually affordable, making it attractive to budget-conscious customers (both locals and tourists). With branches at Dubai and Abu Dhabi airports and online booking, Dollar covers the UAE’s main destinations. Its balance of low rates, a broad fleet (even some luxury vehicles are available), and a trustworthy global reputation make it one of the best value-focused rental brands in the UAE.
8. Sixt Premium & Luxury Rentals
Sixt brings German efficiency and a luxury focus to the UAE. It offers a premium fleet of vehicles: executive sedans (Mercedes, BMW), high-end SUVs, sporty coupes, and even exotic models. Uniquely, Sixt provides an on-demand limousine service for executive travel or special events. Rentals come with clear terms and a slick digital experience customers book online or via app for quick pickups.

Support is available 24/7. Sixt is popular among business travelers and visitors who prioritize quality and tech-savvy convenience. For example, tech-oriented customers praise Sixt’s user-friendly platform and the feeling of “German precision” in service. It has locations in Dubai and Abu Dhabi (including airports and city centers). Standout features include its high-end car selection and valet-style service options. In summary, Sixt is best for renters seeking luxury and reliability together, even if that means paying premium rates.
9. Hertz UAE International Brand & Wide Coverage
Hertz UAE (Al-Futtaim Automotive) is a major global player with strong local operations. It maintains over 11,000 vehicles and 14 rental branches across the UAE. Hertz’s inventory covers all categories: economy compacts, family sedans, SUVs, hybrids and EVs (even coupes). They offer everything from daily rentals to long-term leasing, plus a corporate program. Popular pick-up points include Dubai and Abu Dhabi airports, Ras Al Khaimah, and city offices.

Hertz is known for reliability and service consistency; it provides full transparency in pricing and 24/7 multilingual support. The company recently added more EV and hybrid models to its fleet. While not a niche luxury brand, Hertz UAE’s strengths are national coverage and flexibility with cars suitable for tourists on budget trips as well as executives needing high-end SUVs. Its robust online booking system and partnerships (e.g. Skywards rewards) make it easy to reserve a car before arriving. Overall, Hertz ranks among the top mid- to high-tier options in the UAE rental market.
10. eZhire 100% App-Based Rentals
eZhire is a newer entrant that caters to tech-savvy users. It operates entirely via a smartphone app: you pick a car (economy sedan, rugged SUV or even a luxury model), book, and have it delivered often without a deposit or paperwork. The service covers Dubai and several other emirates. eZhire offers self-drive rentals, chauffeur-driven cars, and even monthly subscriptions.

Its standout feature is convenience: no branches to visit, instant digital verification, and real-time availability. Users report booking in minutes and getting cars dropped to their doorsteps. Pricing is transparent and competitive; for example, it frequently runs promotions on low-season days. eZhire’s model appeals to those who prioritize speed and flexibility. By September 2025, it has become one of the go-to options for on-demand rental (both budget cars and premium vehicles) for people living or traveling in the UAE.
Below is a summary comparison of the top 10 car rental companies in the UAE, highlighting their fleets, pricing and key features:
| Company | Pricing Tier | Fleet Range | Coverage (UAE) | Luxury vs Budget Focus |
| Octane Rent | High-end ($$$) | Luxury sports cars, premium SUVs | Primarily Dubai | Luxury-oriented |
| Budget Rent A Car | Budget ($) | Compact & economy sedans, SUVs | Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah | Budget-friendly |
| Diamondlease | Mid ($$) | 14,000+ vehicles: cars, buses, trucks | 10 branches nationwide | Corporate/mixed |
| Europcar | Mid-High ($$) | Wide mix (economy to premium) | Dubai, Abu Dhabi | Premium & flexible |
| Shift Car Rental | Mid ($$) | Utility vans/trucks, passenger cars | UAE (Dubai, etc.) | Commercial/corporate |
| Autostrad Rent A Car | Mid ($$) | Sedans, SUVs, pickups, vans | UAE (multi-city) | Mixed (family, biz) |
| Dollar UAE | Budget ($) | Sedans, SUVs, some luxury models | UAE (various cities) | Value/budget |
| Sixt | Luxury ($$$) | Premium sedans, sports cars, limos | Dubai, Abu Dhabi | Luxury/Executive |
| Hertz UAE | Mid ($$) | ~11,000 cars (economy to SUVs, EVs) | 14 locations UAE-wide | Mixed (all segments) |
| eZhire | Variable ($$) | Economy to luxury (self-drive/chauffeur) | UAE (multiple cities) | On-demand convenience |
Choosing the Right Car Rental in the UAE
The UAE’s car rental scene in 2025 caters to all needs from no-frills daily wheels to ultra-luxury rides. Local firms like Octane, Shift and eZhire emphasize specialized services (supercar rentals, app-based convenience, corporate fleets), while global brands like Hertz, Europcar and Budget cover broad needs with large fleets and nationwide coverage.
Whatever your budget or occasion, these companies offer transparent online booking, modern vehicles, and nationwide support. Always compare prices, policies (mileage, insurance, deposits) and customer reviews before booking. With so many options available from luxury sports cars behind the wheel to affordable economy rides finding the right UAE rental car for your September 2025 trip has never been easier.

