What Is The Mileage / Allowed Distance Policy? – Your Guide To Understanding Car Rental Prices In Dubai
One of the first things to consider when renting a car in Dubai is the mileage or allowed distance policy and how it affects the final rental cost. Understanding car rental prices in Dubai is important because exceeding the mileage limit can significantly increase expenses.
Many car rental companies in Dubai offer different mileage options, making it essential to understand the policy before signing a rental contract.
This article explains everything clearly to help you avoid extra charges and get the most value from your rental.
What Is the Mileage / Allowed Distance Policy?
Definition of the Mileage Policy
The mileage policy is a rule applied by rental companies to limit how far a rented vehicle can be driven within a specific period.
What Does It Include?
Why Is This Policy Imposed?
Rental companies apply mileage limits to manage vehicle usage, maintain car value, and control maintenance costs while keeping rental prices fair.
Why Do Rental Companies Have a Mileage Policy?
Reasons for Distance Limits
- Limiting car usage
Long-distance driving increases wear on tires, brakes, and engines.
- Preserving the car’s value
Vehicles with high mileage depreciate faster.
- Controlling maintenance costs
Regular servicing is required every 5,000–10,000 km.
- Ensuring fair usage
Prevents excessive use by a single renter.
What Are the Solutions If You Need Unlimited Mileage?
Ways to Deal With the Mileage Policy
- Choose an “Unlimited Miles” package
Some Dubai car rental companies offer unlimited mileage for an extra fee.
- Negotiate an increased daily limit
Additional 100–200 km may be added at a discounted rate.
- Opt for monthly rental instead of daily
Monthly rentals come with higher mileage limits.
- Choose an economical car category
Smaller cars usually offer higher mileage limits at lower cost.
- Select a company with flexible policies
Especially those offering deals on cheap car rentals in Dubai.
When Do You Need to Check the Mileage Policy Carefully?
Situations That Require Attention
- Long trips outside Dubai
Travel to Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, Ras Al Khaimah, or Fujairah.
- Fieldwork or delivery jobs
High daily driving distances.
- Short-term rentals
Daily rentals have lower limits than monthly ones.
- Luxury car rentals
Luxury vehicles usually come with stricter limits.
How Are Extra Kilometer Fees Calculated?
Fee Calculation Mechanism
Extra kilometer fees depend on the vehicle category and rental company. Common rates include:
| Car Type |
Average Fee per Extra Km (AED) |
| Economy |
0.50 – 1.00 |
| Mid-size Sedan |
1.00 – 1.50 |
| SUV |
1.50 – 2.50 |
| Luxury |
3.00 – 5.00 |
Example
-
Daily limit: 250 km
- Distance driven: 300 km
- Excess distance: 50 km
- Extra fee: 50 × 1.00 = AED 50
Additional Tips to Maximize Mileage Benefits
Practical Tips
- Plan trips in advance to estimate distance
- Check monthly limits before signing long-term contracts
- Request mileage limits in writing
- Compare mileage policies between rental companies
- Ask about seasonal promotions with higher limits
FAQs
- Is the mileage limit mandatory?
Yes, most rental companies enforce mileage limits.
- Can I get unlimited mileage?
Yes, for an additional fee or through monthly packages.
- Are extra kilometer fees fixed?
No, they vary by car category and company.
- Does mileage include travel between Emirates?
Yes, if allowed in the contract.
- Do luxury cars have lower mileage limits?
Usually yes, due to higher maintenance costs.
- Can mileage limits be negotiated?
Often yes, especially for long-term rentals.
Conclusion
The mileage or allowed distance policy is one of the most important factors when renting a car in Dubai, as it directly impacts the final rental cost.
To get the best cheap car rental deals in Dubai and fully understand car rental prices in Dubai, always review mileage limits carefully and choose a package that fits your travel needs.
