Unlock Dubai: Rent a Car by the Minute with Udrive & Ekar
April 29, 2025
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Rta
Need a car for a short time in Dubai without the usual rental fuss? Imagine grabbing a vehicle for just an hour or even a few minutes, right when you need it. That's the beauty of RTA-regulated car sharing in Dubai – an app-based, pay-per-minute or hourly service that offers incredible flexibility
[3]
[6]
[8]
[14]
[22]. Let's be clear, this isn't the same as "Tajeer," which deals more with corporate bus rentals, nor is it your traditional daily car hire
[29]
[34]
[36]. We're talking about the convenient services offered by the main licensed operators: Udrive and Ekar[3][6]
[12][14][22]. Think of it as having access to a car on demand, perfect for both residents exploring their city and tourists wanting freedom
[1][6]. This guide breaks down exactly how it works, the costs involved, who can rent, and the real benefits.
How Dubai Car Sharing Works: Step-by-Step
First things first, you'll need to download the Udrive or Ekar app onto your smartphone (available on iOS and Android)[1]
[2][3][12][14][22]. Once installed, the registration process begins. You'll provide personal details and upload necessary documents for verification[1][2][3][12][14]. For residents, this typically means your Emirates ID and a valid UAE driving license[1][6]
[31]
[20]. Some sources suggest you might also need copies of your passport and resident visa[31]. Tourists will need their valid passport, entry visa or stamp, and a valid driving license from their home country[1][6][12]
[17][31][20]. Now, about that International Driving Permit (IDP) – you'll likely need one if your home license isn't in English or Arabic, or if it's from a country not on the UAE's recognized list[17][31]. However, licenses from many places like the UK, US, GCC countries, and others are often accepted without an IDP, but always double-check the specific rules for your license's country of origin
[4][17]. You generally need to be at least 21 years old (sometimes 23 or 25 depending on the car or operator) and might need a minimum driving experience, like six months[4][17][20]. Drivers under 25 could face higher excess fees if an accident occurs[2]. You'll also link a valid credit card (some might accept debit cards) for payments[2][6][17][20]
[35]. Udrive mentions no registration fees or deposits, while Ekar might charge a tiny verification fee (like AED 1)[1][2][3]
[11]. Document verification can take a few hours, after which you'll get approved and often receive a PIN code[3][8][12][22].
When you reach the car, unlock it using the app – simple as that[1][3]
[7]
[10][12][22]. Ekar might even use a QR code scan[14]
[25]. Inside, usually in the glove box or on the dashboard, you'll find the key or a keypad[3][8][10][12][14][22]. You might need to enter your PIN to release the key or start the car[3][8][10][12][22]. Before you drive off, take a quick look around the car for any damage and report it through the app – this is important[7].
While driving, remember you generally need to stay within designated zones, and trips usually must start and end in the same Emirate or service area[2][4][6][11][14]
[24]. Driving outside the UAE isn't allowed[2][7]. Good news for the pay-per-minute users: fuel is often included[1][6][8]
[9]. If you need to refuel, use the designated stations (like ENOC/EPPCO or ADNOC) with the car's VIP tag or card – it's free for you[1][10]. Just don't return the car running on fumes (below 15% fuel), as penalties can apply[3]. Note that longer rental packages might not include fuel[2][11]. Basic insurance is included, but there's an excess fee if you're at fault in an accident[1][2][6][8]. You might be offered extra coverage (CDW) too[1].
Ending your trip requires parking legally. You can usually park for free (for you, the user) in designated RTA public parking zones (like A, B, C, D, etc., but check the app for specifics and exclusions like zones I or J)[1][2][4][8][24]
[30]. Avoid private parking, malls, valet areas, basement or multi-level lots, and restricted zones – any fines are your responsibility[2][7][24]. Ekar might sometimes charge a parking fee depending on your end location, so check their rules[7][14]. Parking rules also differ by Emirate, like Mawaqif in Abu Dhabi[2][4][24]. Once parked, put the key back where you found it[3][10][14]. Finally, end the trip using the app's 'lock' or 'end trip' function to stop the charges[1][6][8][10]. Payment is automatic; the cost (duration plus any extras like Salik tolls or fines) is charged to your registered card, and you'll get an e-bill[1][2][6][8][22].
Meet the Operators: Udrive & Ekar
In Dubai's car-sharing scene, Udrive and Ekar are the main players licensed by the RTA[3][6][14][22]. Both companies operate substantial fleets of vehicles that you can easily find and book through their respective mobile apps[3][11][14]. Their core offering is a flexible pay-as-you-go model, primarily charging by the minute, but they also provide options for hourly, daily, weekly, and even monthly rentals to suit different needs[2][3]
[5][9][11][14]. While the research also mentions Yaldi (formerly focusing on hybrid/electric cars), Udrive and Ekar remain the most prominent providers for this type of on-demand service[6][9].
Understanding the Costs
So, how much does this convenience actually cost? The primary pricing model is pay-per-minute, with rates typically ranging from around 0.70 to 1.10 AED per minute, depending on the operator and vehicle[2][5][6][8][9][11][14]. Hourly, daily, and longer-term packages are also available if you need the car for extended periods[2][3][5][9][11][14].
However, be mindful of potential extra charges that can add up. Salik road tolls are automatically added to your bill[1][2][6][8]. Any traffic fines you incur during your rental period are your responsibility[1][2][6][8]. If you exceed the mileage limits included in certain packages, extra mileage fees will apply[1][2][6][8]. Parking improperly or in non-designated zones can lead to parking fees or fines, and remember Ekar might charge a parking fee depending on the end location[2][7][14][24]. There can also be penalties for things like returning the car with very low fuel[3]. And, if you have an accident where you are deemed at fault, you'll be liable for the insurance excess fee[1][2].
Who Can Rent? Eligibility & Requirements
Wondering if you're eligible to use car sharing in Dubai? Here’s the breakdown:
For Residents of the UAE, you'll need:
For Tourists visiting Dubai, the requirements are:
There are also some common requirements for everyone:
•
Minimum Driving Experience: Some operators might require you to have held your license for a minimum period, such as six months[4].
Top Advantages of Using Car Sharing
Why choose car sharing over other options? The benefits are quite compelling.
The biggest draw is Ultimate Flexibility & Convenience[2]
[13]
[15]
[18]. You can rent a car 24/7, literally whenever you need one, for just minutes, hours, or even longer, without needing to book far in advance like traditional rentals[1][2][3][9][13][22]. Pick up a car here, drop it off there (within the allowed zones) – one-way trips are often possible, offering incredible freedom[1][2][4][8][30].
It can also be Cost-Effective for Certain Trips. For shorter journeys or if you only need a car occasionally, the pay-per-use model can work out cheaper than owning a car (with all its associated costs) or even taking taxis or ride-hailing services, especially avoiding surge pricing[2][8][13][14][15]
[16]
[27]
[28]
[33]. Plus, fuel, basic insurance, and public parking are often included in the per-minute rate[1][6][8][9].
You also get Comfort & Privacy. It's your own space for the duration of the rental – control the AC, play your music, and enjoy the ride without sharing[15][16][18][33]. Car sharing provides Accessibility, giving car access to those who don't own one or need one infrequently, helping reach areas perhaps less served by public transport[1][3][15][18]. Finally, there's Reduced Hassle – no worrying about maintenance schedules, insurance renewals, or registration paperwork[1][9].
Car Sharing & Dubai's Public Transport Integration
One of its key roles is acting as a First/Last Mile Solution
[32]
[21]. It bridges the distance between a public transport stop, like a Metro station (vehicles are often strategically placed near hubs like Rashidiya or Burjuman), and your actual starting point or final destination[6][28][22][32]. You could take the Metro across town and then hop into a shared car for the last few kilometers.
It serves as a Complementary Service, offering a flexible alternative when public transport routes aren't direct, schedules don't fit (especially late at night, though Metro/Tram have operating hours), or your destination isn't easily reachable by bus or train[32]
[26]. This integration supports the RTA's goals of encouraging shared mobility, aiming to lessen reliance on private cars, which helps reduce traffic congestion and benefits the environment[32][21]
[19][27]. It's all part of providing diverse options for getting around the city efficiently[21].
Quick Tips & Final Thoughts
Just a few final pointers:
•
Get in the habit of inspecting the car for any pre-existing damage and reporting it via the app before you start driving[7].
Why not give Udrive or Ekar a try for your next short journey in Dubai? It might just change the way you get around the city.
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