If you’re flying from drizzle-soaked London to the glittering skyline of the UAE, chances are you’ve already planned the essentials — flights, hotel, maybe a brunch booking at a swanky rooftop spot. But here’s the bit most Brits overlook: rent a car Dubai. It might not sound glamorous at first, but trust me, it’s the travel upgrade you didn’t know you needed.
Londoners are used to hopping on the Tube, moaning about delayed trains, and squeezing into black cabs when the weather’s gone properly sideways. Dubai, however, plays by different rules. It’s vast, spread out, and built for the road. Yes, there’s public transport, and yes, it’s clean and efficient — but if you want to experience the city properly, on your own terms, having your own wheels is an absolute game-changer.
Dubai Isn’t a “Walking City” — And That’s the Point
Let’s be honest: you can wander around Soho or Shoreditch for hours and stumble across something brilliant. Dubai isn’t that sort of place. The city stretches along Sheikh Zayed Road with neighbourhoods that feel like separate worlds — Downtown with the Burj Khalifa, the beachy vibes of JBR, the polished calm of Palm Jumeirah, the cultural corners of Al Fahidi.
Trying to piece all that together with taxis can get pricey fast. Relying purely on the Metro means you’ll miss out on some of the most interesting spots — desert resorts, hidden cafés, mountain drives to Hatta, or late-night shawarma runs in places tourists rarely see.
With a car, you’re not confined to someone else’s timetable. Fancy a sunrise drive along the coast? Go for it. Want to nip out at midnight for karak tea? Easy. No faff, no waiting, no awkward small talk with drivers if you’re not in the mood.
Comfort Is King (Especially in 40°C Heat)
British travellers sometimes underestimate Dubai’s climate. We complain when it hits 25°C at home. In Dubai, summer temperatures can soar past 40°C without breaking a sweat. Air-conditioned public transport helps, but stepping outside even briefly can feel like walking into a hairdryer.
Having your own car means seamless, climate-controlled comfort from hotel to destination. It’s not about showing off; it’s about practicality. You’ll conserve energy, stay fresh, and arrive everywhere looking less “flustered tourist” and more “effortless globetrotter”.
And if you’re travelling as a couple, family, or group of mates, splitting the cost of a rental often works out cheaper than multiple taxis each day. Not bad, eh?
Freedom Beyond the City Limits
Here’s where the real magic happens. Dubai is brilliant, but the UAE as a whole is seriously underrated. With a car, your world opens up.
You can drive to Abu Dhabi in under 90 minutes for a day trip to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Head towards Ras Al Khaimah for mountain views that feel worlds away from skyscrapers. Or venture into the desert for a sunset that’ll make your Instagram pop off properly.
Try doing that on public transport and you’ll quickly see why locals and seasoned travellers alike prefer to drive.
Style Points (If That’s Your Thing)
Let’s not pretend aesthetics don’t matter. Dubai is a city that appreciates a bit of polish. Whether you opt for something sleek and understated or go full-on luxury for a few days, driving in Dubai feels different to driving in Britain.
Wide roads, smooth highways, and a skyline straight out of a sci-fi film? It’s a vibe. Even a standard saloon feels elevated when you’re cruising past the Burj Khalifa at night.
It’s not about being flashy for the sake of it — it’s about leaning into the experience. When in Dubai, do as Dubai does.
Surprisingly Straightforward
If you’re picturing endless paperwork and confusing rules, relax. Renting a car in Dubai is typically straightforward for UK travellers. An English driving licence is accepted for short-term visitors, roads are well signposted, and navigation apps work seamlessly.
Fuel is generally cheaper than in the UK, parking is widely available (especially at malls and hotels), and the infrastructure is designed with drivers in mind. Compared to central London traffic chaos, it can actually feel refreshingly organised.
The Real Upgrade Is Control
Travelling from London to Dubai isn’t just about swapping weather — it’s about upgrading your pace of life, even if only for a week. Back home, we queue. We wait. We plan around train strikes. In Dubai, you can move differently.
Hiring a car gives you control over your time, your routes, and your experiences. No rushing to catch the last Metro. No budgeting for surge-priced taxis. Just you, the open road, and a city built to be explored.
So next time you’re booking that escape from Heathrow, don’t just think about seat upgrades or hotel suites. Think bigger picture. That simple decision to rent a car might just turn a good holiday into a brilliant one.
And honestly? Once you’ve tried Dubai with your own set of wheels, going back to rigid travel plans will feel a bit… last season.
