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The Top Two Secrets of Renting a Car in Dubai

Visiting Dubai is definitely on the top of your bucket list. And why not? Having the chance to visit this awesome desert metropolis is one of the unforgettable moments in your life. Of course, it would not be complete without driving a car, since it is more comfortable and gives you the freedom of independence. But how can you be sure that the rent-a-car company you are about to deal with is legit and has a good reputation? The list below provides you tips on how to detect a “red flag” company.

How to avoid companies that don’t return security deposits

Security deposits are normal in a car rental company. It serves as a bond in case an accident occurred and caused damage to the car, they will automatically deduct the damage cost to the security deposit. Also, if there are traffic fines and penalties that might appear later, it will be used to secure payments for those traffic violations. Usually, rent-a-car companies offer 15 to 30 days before they refund the deposit to you. However, there are cases in which security deposits are not returned to the renter on the covered period. Worst, some of them are not refunded at all.

So before jumping in to rent a car, be sure that you’ve already done your own research. Reviews over the Internet are somewhat helpful, but we all know that sometimes they can be faked. The best thing is to ask people around you. You can also get references from the hotel in which you are staying in Dubai. More importantly, don’t make any transactions using cash to avoid easy scams in case the company is associated with it. The credit card authorization method is far more convenient and hassle-free.

Beware of rent-a-car companies that offer crazy low rates.

If it is too good to be true, then run away! Although rates vary from company to company, the fact that a certain car rental company offers a very cheap rate for a particular car should immediately put you into alert. Yes, you might get the car you wish to rent with that offer, but you might get caught between extra charges and hidden charges.

As an example of extra charges, you might consider acquiring a driver from the rental agency. However, you find that the driver is asking extra charges or cash from you, then you can immediately contact the car rental company and clarify it. Since most of the companies would take care of their drivers’ payments, it is unfair that you shoulder the said charges. Make sure that you have a clear and crisp dialogue with the customer service before deciding to get one.

Another thing that is of vital importance is the car registration. Before driving the car, be sure that you’ve already checked the registration and see if the registration is for the same car that you are renting. This is to avoid inconvenience on your part. You might also want to check for existing damages of the car that have already been there. Once you found out that there were damages even the minor ones such as scratches on the exterior part or interior, it would be better if you take a photograph of them and show them to the rental agency. It is so easy to fall as prey for this kind of scam, paying for the damage that you’ve never done.