You can now rent cars by the hour in Dubai!

New rules for car rentals will mean that individuals can now rent vehicles by the hour.

The new rules come into effect following an Executive Council resolution issued by His Highness Shaikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Executive Council.

The resolution is designed to provide alternative low-cost public transportation solutions to the people of Dubai.

As per the resolutions, those renting cars need to hold a valid driving license recognised by Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). Additionally, the rented vehicle needs to meet the specifications stipulated in the regulations outlined by the resolution, and the rental period must not exceed six hours a day within Dubai.

The resolution prohibits pay-by-the-hour rental services without a license from the RTA Licensing Agency. The regulations define the procedures for issuing and renewing the license, and car rental firms are required to have their cars licensed by RTA. Complaint procedures and penalties for violators are clearly defined in the resolution.

Additionally, the resolution allows RTA to authorise companies to conduct car rental businesses through a franchise model, and notes that franchise contracts should clearly specify the rights and obligations of each party, the way in which service is delivered, and the franchise fee and payment method. Licensed firms are required to create records to track the movement and locations of their vehicles.

The resolution will be published in the Official Gazette, and will be effective 60 days after the date of its publication.

reporters@khaleejtimes.com