Compare Dubai car hire

Most of the major rental companies have service desks at Dubai International Airport (DXB), including Hertz, Avis, Budget, Sixt and Thrifty. With plenty of choice on offer, car hire costs in Dubai are quite competitive. That said, you should shop around for the best chance of landing cheap car hire.

From the airport, it's a 15–20-minute drive to Downtown Dubai. Driving to Dubai's central and beach districts is easy – take the D89 west from the airport and join the E11, then follow the highway as it threads through the city, crossing Dubai Creek and passing the marina.

At Dubai International Airport you'll find most of the car hire desks in the arrivals hall of each of the three terminals.

Car rental companies at Dubai International Airport include:

• Avis: (+971 42245219)
• Dollar: (+971 42244855)
• Budget: (+971 42245192)
• Europcar: (+971 42245240)
• Hertz: (+971 42245222)
• Sixt: (+971 8007498)
• Fast: (+971 42245040)

If you're spending a few days in the city before venturing out into the desert, it could be worth picking up the car in Downtown Dubai or from one of the larger hotels. Car hire companies such as Hertz and Avis also have pick-up points in Dubai Mall and the Mall of the Emirates.

Dubai has modern, well-signposted roads and its layout, especially the main highways, is simple to master. The main route through the city is the E11, the main highway between Abu Dhabi and Sharjah. If you're heading out into the desert, you'll probably use either the E66 or E44, both of which run inland from central Dubai.

Away from the major roads, it's easy to navigate around the main central districts of Dubai, all of which work on a grid system similar to that in many major North American cities. The roads are signposted in both English and Arabic.

Dubai has several automatic toll gates, which charge a small fee each time you pass through. Charges will be totted up automatically and presented as an additional bill when you return your hire car.

The roads in Downtown Dubai and the Central Business Districts can get very busy at peak times. With such a mix of nationalities, all with different driving habits, getting around can sometimes be a little hairy – but if you're a confident, patient driver it's nothing you won't be able to handle.

Parking in Dubai is pretty straightforward. Valet parking is available at most shopping malls, including the Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates, and at all of the large hotels. Alternatively, you'll find paid parking bays on the street where fees are charged by the hour and paid in cash or by phone. On-street parking is usually free on Fridays and public holidays.

Hatta

Driving time: One hour 40 minutes

Surrounded by the rugged Hajar Mountains, the village of Hatta has become a popular hub for outdoor enthusiasts. The region boasts some of the most beautiful views in the UAE, and there are a number of hiking trails catering to various levels of fitness. Hike from Hatta Heritage Village to Hatta Dam, or join a trail through the mountains for panoramic views over the border with Oman.

Sheikh Zayed Mosque and Ferrari World

Driving time: One hour 30 minutes

Famous for its art and architecture, the capital of the UAE is a great add-on to a Dubai trip. For culture, visit the magnificent marble-white Sheikh Zayed Mosque, the sixth largest in the world. For more high-octane thrills, try the Ferrari World theme park – home to Formula Rossa, the fastest rollercoaster in the world. It reaches speeds of 240kph (150mph).

Cultural museums in Sharjah

Driving time: 30 minutes

Dubai's more subdued neighbour has some cracking cultural attractions. Visit the ornate and heavily gilded tearoom in the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization, or see some of the region's finest contemporary art at the Sharjah Art Museum. Mleiha, one of the UAE's most important archaeological sites, is one of the highlights of Sharjah. Take a guided tour through the desert's Palaeolithic heritage and see Bronze Age tombs, pre-Islamic forts and mosques.

1. In Dubai, hire cars are usually automatic rather than manual. As you'd expect given the desert heat, air-conditioning comes as standard.
2. After your trip, leave plenty of time to return your car to the hire company so you can complete any necessary paperwork and settle any toll fees.
3. Seat belts are mandatory, and drink-driving and mobile use behind the wheel are strictly forbidden. Police are vigilant, so don't take any chances.