Does Thrifty require an IDP in United Arab Emirates?
Thrifty in United Arab Emirates: the policy in plain terms
Requires an IDP in select countries and for non-Roman-alphabet licences. Budget-friendly brand paired with Dollar in many markets.
Tourists need an IDP with their national licence to rent and drive in the UAE; the printed booklet is typically required.
In United Arab Emirates specifically, united Arab Emirates legally requires foreign drivers to carry an International Driving Permit with their national licence, so Thrifty will ask for it at the counter. Dubai and Abu Dhabi desks require an IDP for most non-GCC licences.
Thrifty runs a global network; at its United Arab Emirates desks, foreign renters are asked for the 1968 Vienna-format International Driving Permit alongside the original licence. United Arab Emirates drives on the right, uses the AED, and sets a minimum driving age of 18, so an IDP is the document that removes any doubt at the counter.
What to bring to the Thrifty counter in United Arab Emirates
- Your original national driving licence (the IDP never replaces it).
- Your International Driving Permit in the 1968 Vienna format.
- Your passport and a payment card in the main driver's name.
- Local payment for the AED deposit; United Arab Emirates drives on the right with a young-driver surcharge under 25.
Driving rules in United Arab Emirates Thrifty renters should know
- Zero-tolerance alcohol law while driving.
- Extensive speed-camera (radar) enforcement.
- Salik electronic tolls in Dubai.
- Tailgating and lane discipline strictly fined.