Avoiding Surprise Fees: Dubai Car Rentals

Do You Have to Pay for Upholstery Stains? What Every Dubai Car Renter Should Know

Long-term car rentals are a convenient and popular solution in Dubai, especially for those temporarily residing in the UAE or who do not wish to purchase their own vehicle. However, many renters only face the details when they have to return the car - and may encounter extra costs. One of the most common disputes: Can the rental company rightfully charge for seat stains, light soiling, or other marks that result from normal use?

What does the law say in the UAE?

Regulations concerning car rental are found in the UAE's Federal Decree-Law No. (14) of 2024, which deals with the regulation of transportation. Article 29 specifically addresses the issue of vehicle rental. According to it:

Rentals can only be conducted with a license issued by the authorities.

The lessor is obligated to verify the renter's valid driver's license that is recognized by the UAE.

The execution regulations determine the terms of rental, as well as the obligations of the renter and the service provider.

Thus, the lessor operates legally if they have a license and the rental agreement conforms to local regulations.

Specific Rules in Dubai

If the rental took place within Dubai, local regulations contain additional provisions. The Consumer Protection and Fair Trade Office under the Dubai Department of Economic Development and Tourism states that:

The lessor is required to return the security deposit or blocked amount placed by the customer within 30 days at the latest.

In case of any deductions, the renter can request a detailed statement.

This also means that the lessor cannot arbitrarily impose extra fees, especially if they are not specified in advance in the contract.

Stain, Dirt, Wear - What Constitutes Normal Use?

During long-term rentals, it is entirely natural for vehicles to accumulate light dirt, dust, or minor stains. However, lessors often take the opportunity to charge cleaning fees for these. Whether this claim is justified depends on whether:

The rental agreement contained an obligation regarding cleaning?

What condition was the vehicle returned in - were there unusually large or non-removable stains?

The renter was informed in advance of such charges?

In general, normal wear and tear is part of usage, and the cleaning necessitated by it does not always justify an extra fee. However, if the dirt is uncommon (e.g., food stains, spilled drinks, grease, chemicals), then the lessor may rightfully request a fee for special cleaning.

What can the renter do?

If as a renter you feel that you have been charged an unjustified amount, consider taking the following steps:

1. Request a written breakdown of the deducted amount with detailed justification.

2. Review the relevant parts of the rental agreement - does it include specific provisions on the vehicle's condition and cleaning costs?

3. If the information is not clear, or the lessor is unwilling to cooperate, you can file a complaint with the Dubai Consumer Protection Authority.

4. Document everything: At the time of vehicle return, take photos or video of the interior condition.

The Rental Contract is Key

Most disputes could be avoided if renters thoroughly studied the contract before renting. Pay particular attention to the following sections:

Return condition and cleaning stipulations

Security deposit return

Definitions of deductible charges

Damage assessment process

If these are clarified and the lessor adheres to them, the chances of disputes decrease.

Prevention: Tips for Renters

1. Use seat covers and blankets for longer-term rentals to prevent many inconveniences.

2. Do not consume food or drinks in the vehicle - a spilled coffee or soda could result in significant cleaning costs.

3. Regularly clean out the car, especially in the days before returning it.

4. Before return, take the vehicle to a car wash and request interior cleaning - it's much cheaper than a charge imposed by the lessor afterward.

What Happens if You Don't Pay?

If the lessor believes they rightfully withheld money, but you dispute it and do not pay the demanded amount, then:

The amount may be deducted from your credit card hold.

The dispute can be escalated to consumer protection authorities, where the complaint will be examined.

If the lessor fraudulently imposes or charges undisclosed fees, it can also be sanctioned.

Summary

In car rentals in Dubai, minor dirt, such as stains during vehicle return, do not necessarily result in additional fees - provided they are considered part of normal use. However, everything depends on the contract. If the lessor has previously stated that spotless return is a condition, then they may rightfully impose a cleaning fee.

Therefore, always read the contract carefully and pay attention to the vehicle's condition - this way, you can avoid unforeseen surprises at the end of the rental.

(The article's source is based on Federal Decree-Law No. (14).)