FAQs

The minimum rental period for a bus in Dubai is usually 4 hours. Half-day rental (4 hours) is standard for most short trips. For school or staff transport, minimum rental periods can extend to monthly contracts. Daily rentals (10–12 hours) are common for corporate events and tours. Hourly rentals below 4 hours are rare and often not economical.

When Deposit Is Usually Required:

  • Long-term rentals (weekly or monthly)

  • Luxury or high-value buses

  • Tourist group bookings

  • Event transportation (weddings, corporate, etc.)

    Typical Deposit Details:

    • Amount: Usually AED 500–2000 (depends on bus type)

    • Refundable: Yes, refunded after service if no damage or policy breach

    • Mode: Often collected via cash, card, or bank transfer

      When It May Not Be Required:

      • For short daily rentals with a reliable customer or repeat client

      • With corporate accounts or government contracts

       

If You Are an Individual (Personal Use or Private Group):

  1. Copy of Passport
    (and UAE visa if you're a resident or visitor)

  2. Valid Emirates ID (for UAE residents)

  3. Mobile Number & Address
    (for coordination and emergency contact)

  4. Trip Details

    • Date and time of use

    • Pickup and drop-off locations

    • Route or itinerary

    • Number of passengers

  5. Security Deposit

    • Typically AED 500–2000 (refundable)

    • May be waived for short-term rentals with driver

  6. Payment in Advance

    • Full payment or at least 50% booking confirmation

      If You Are a Company (Staff Transport or Corporate Use):

      1. Company Trade License

      2. Authorization Letter or Email

      3. Emirates ID of the person booking

      4. Contact Details of Transport Coordinator

      5. Route and Timing Schedule

      6. Security Deposit or Postdated Cheque (case-by-case)

Using Personal Insurance Is Not Allowed for Bus Rentals

  • Buses for hire in Dubai must be RTA-approved and commercially insured under the name of the rental company.

  • Even if you have your own insurance, it is not valid for rental or commercial transport purposes.

    What the Law Requires:

    1. All buses must have commercial insurance registered with the RTA.

    2. The bus must be registered to the rental company, not to a private individual or external party.

    3. The rental company is legally responsible for:

      • Passenger safety

      • Road permits and route compliance

      • Driver licensing and insurance

Same-Day Bus Rental Is Allowed If:

  1. Required documents are submitted:

    • Emirates ID or Passport (for individuals)

    • Trade License (for companies, if applicable)

    • Trip itinerary: pickup, drop-off, timing, number of passengers

  2. Bus availability is confirmed by the rental company

  3. Payment and/or deposit is completed

  4. Driver and route approval (if applicable) are processed

If You're Renting the Bus With a Driver (Standard Case):

  • The rental company is responsible for the vehicle.

  • Any PCNs (Penalty Charge Notices) incurred due to the driver’s error (e.g., wrong parking, speeding) is usually paid by the company.

  • You are not liable, unless the violation was caused directly by your request (e.g., insisting on illegal pickup zones).

    If the Bus is Used Under a Corporate Contract or Custom Terms:

    • The PCN may be charged to the client if agreed in the contract.

    • Some companies deduct fines from your deposit if you're responsible.

7 to 30 days after the end of your rental period.

Why the Delay?

Dubai’s RTA and Dubai Police systems sometimes take up to 3 weeks to update:

  • Traffic fines (PCNs)

  • Salik (toll) charges

  • Other penalties (e.g., wrong parking)

The rental company waits to ensure no delayed fines appear before issuing a refund.

Refund Method:

  • Cash deposits: Refunded in person or via bank transfer

  • Card/block deposits: Automatically released by the bank

  • Cheque (if used by corporates): Returned or voided

Yes, Rent-to-Buy Is Possible — Under Specific Conditions:

Legal Requirements:

  1. A written contract must clearly state:

    • Duration of lease

    • Monthly/annual payment terms

    • Final buyout amount

    • Ownership transfer clause

  2. The vehicle remains under the rental company’s name until full payment is made and ownership is legally transferred through Dubai RTA.

  3. RTA approval is needed for the transfer of ownership at the end of the term.

    For Buses:

    • Some rental companies offer long-term lease-to-own on:

      • Staff transport buses

      • School buses

      • Luxury coaches

    • Typically offered to:

      • Corporate clients

      • Schools

      • Tour operators