Dubai: Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has stepped up efforts to raise public awareness about the unified contract for car rental offices, aimed at enhancing transparency and protecting the rights of both renters and rental companies.
The unified contract, which is mandatory for all car rental offices across the emirate, regulates the relationship between rental companies and customers by clearly defining rights and obligations under transparent and standardised terms.
Ahmed Mahboob, CEO of the Licensing Agency at RTA, said the initiative aligns with Dubai’s Economic Agenda (D33) and supports the growth of the commercial transport sector. He noted that Dubai’s car rental industry has seen significant expansion in recent years, both in the number of licensed companies and registered vehicles.
The contract is implemented through a secure digital system known as the Transport Activities Rental System (TARS), which uses identity verification, including one-time password (OTP) authentication, to ensure secure and transparent transactions.
Authorities highlighted that the unified contract helps reduce disputes and complaints while improving customer confidence. It also ensures renters, including tourists, are fully aware of their rights and responsibilities.
Key provisions of the contract include detailed documentation of the vehicle’s condition at handover and return using images, prohibition of hidden charges such as undisclosed toll fees, and protection against being charged for accidents or repair periods not attributable to the renter.
Additionally, rental companies are required to refund security deposits within a specified timeframe and comply fully with UAE laws and regulations.
RTA has also conducted awareness workshops in coordination with the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, Dubai Police, and the Security Industry Regulatory Agency (SIRA) to ensure proper implementation across the sector.
