Rent a Car for Travel in Sharjah

Sharjah is the third largest and third most populous city in the United Arab Emirates. It is located along the southern coast of the Persian Gulf and is part of the Dubai-Sharjah-Ajman metropolitan area. With its rich culture, attractions and amenities, Sharjah is a popular destination for both tourists and business travelers. Renting a car is often the most convenient and flexible way to get around Sharjah. Here is a guide on renting a car for travel in Sharjah.

Benefits of Renting a Car in Sharjah

Renting a car provides many benefits for travelers in Sharjah:

Convenience

Having your own set of wheels makes it easy to get around Sharjah at your own pace. You can visit attractions and places of interest without relying on public transportation schedules. This allows you to maximize your time and see more during your stay.

Flexibility

With a rental car, you can change plans spontaneously and alter your itinerary as needed. You are not limited to the routes and schedules of buses, trains or taxis. You have the freedom to explore sites off the beaten track.

Comfort

Driving yourself in an air-conditioned car is often more comfortable than taking crowded public transport, especially in Sharjah’s hot climate. Most rental cars have modern amenities and features for a pleasant ride.

Cost Savings

While rentals have upfront costs, they can actually lead to long-term savings for many travelers. The convenience often outweighs transportation or taxi costs. Having your own wheels also allows you to stay in budget hotels away from central areas.

Control

As the driver, you decide the music, routes, stops, climate and pace of your trip. You are in full control compared to group tours or public transportation.

Types of Rental Cars Available in Sharjah

Sharjah has branches of many major international car rental companies plus some reputable local firms. Options range from Economy class vehicles to Luxury models:

Economy Cars

  • Ideal for solo travelers or pairs
  • Compact vehicles with air conditioning
  • Examples: Toyota Yaris, Nissan Sunny

Family Cars

  • Perfect for families and small groups
  • More space for passengers and luggage
  • Examples: Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic

Premium Cars

  • Medium to large sized vehicles
  • More horsepower and features
  • Examples: Toyota Camry, Nissan Altima

Luxury Cars

  • High-end sedan or SUV models
  • Top of the line amenities and service
  • Examples: BMW 5 Series, Mercedes GLC

Specialty Vehicles

  • Convertibles, sports cars, 15-seater vans
  • For specific purposes or experiences
  • Examples: Hummer H3, Ford Mustang

Where to Rent a Car in Sharjah

Car rentals in Sharjah are available at:

  • Sharjah International Airport – Major rental counters right at the airport arrival hall make pick-up easy.
  • Hotels – Many major hotels have rental offices or partnerships on-site for guest convenience.
  • Rental Agencies – Standalone branches located around the city for walk-in rentals.
  • Online Booking – Reserve a car in advance from agency websites for pick-up on arrival.

Top companies like Avis, Budget, Hertz, Europcar and Sixt have locations across Sharjah. Compare rates and shop around for the best deals.

Requirements for Renting a Car in Sharjah

Renting a car in Sharjah is quite straightforward for tourists. However, agencies have some standard requirements:

  • Minimum age is usually 21 years, sometimes 25 years for premium/luxury vehicles.
  • Valid driver’s license from your home country. Some places require an International Driving Permit (IDP).
  • Credit card for payment and deposit. Debit cards are sometimes accepted. Cash payments are usually not allowed.
  • Passport to verify your identity and residency status.
  • UAE visa – Tourist, transit or other approved visa. Work visas may have restrictions.

Meeting residency, age, license and credit requirements is essential. Some agencies allow spouses or partners to rent a car using the other partner’s credentials. Check in advance with your rental company.

Driving Laws and Rules in Sharjah

Driving culture in the UAE differs from Western countries. Here are some key laws and rules to follow to avoid fines or legal issues:

  • Drive on the right-hand side of the road. Overtake via the left lane.
  • Strictly follow speed limits – fines for speeding are very high. Limits range from 60km/hr to 140km/hr on highways.
  • The legal blood alcohol limit is zero – drunk driving is illegal.
  • Wearing seatbelts is mandatory for all passengers. Children require proper child seats.
  • Talking on handheld phones while driving is illegal – use hands-free devices.
  • Tailgating and lane-changing without signals can also lead to fines.
  • Most minor accidents are considered the rear-driver’s fault so keep safe distances.

Following the rules and driving responsibly will ensure a safe, stress-free rental experience. Keep your license and registration handy during your trip.

Best Places to Visit By Rental Car in Sharjah

A rental car allows you to easily reach top sights across the emirate of Sharjah. Recommended places to visit via self-drive rental car:

Sharjah City Sights

  • Al Noor Mosque – One of the city’s grandest mosques with intricate architecture.
  • Al Qasba – Picturesque canal side area with restaurants and entertainment.
  • Central Souk – Vibrant covered market selling spices, gold, perfumes and handicrafts.
  • Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization – Fascinating museum housed in a unique building.

East Coast Attractions

  • Khor Fakkan Beach – Idyllic sandy beach with dramatic mountain scenery.
  • Fossil Rock – Huge rock formation with embedded fossils dating back millions of years.
  • Kalba – Charming historic town with a beach, mangrove lagoon and birdwatching.

Historic Heartland

  • Mleiha Archeological Center – Remains of ancient settlements and fossils.
  • Muweilah – Important Bronze Age metallurgical site.
  • Bidya Mosque – Oldest mosque in the UAE dating back to 1446 AD.

With a rental car you can conveniently explore both the city and the outskirts of Sharjah.

Tips for Renting a Car in Sharjah

Follow these tips to have the best rental experience in Sharjah:

  • Book in advance online to get better rates and guarantee availability.
  • Read rental terms fully and decline unnecessary add-ons to control costs.
  • Inspect the vehicle thoroughly at pick-up before signing documents.
  • Consider a 4WD for easier access to sandy beaches and off-road sites.
  • Get an electronic Salik tag for highway tolls to avoid administrative fees.
  • Keep important phone numbers like roadside assistance handy.
  • Refuel before dropping off the vehicle to avoid inflated refueling charges.
  • Take photos of the car at pick-up and drop-off to have proof of its condition.

Renting a Car in Sharjah – FAQ

What documents do I need to rent a car in Sharjah?

You will typically need your driver’s license, credit card, passport and UAE visa. Some agencies may require an IDP license or cash deposit instead of a credit card.

What side of the road do people drive on in the UAE?

Vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road in the UAE. Overtaking is via the left lane. This is opposite from countries like the UK.

Are there any toll roads in Sharjah?

Yes, there are toll gates on the highways between Sharjah, Dubai and other emirates. You can rent an electronic Salik tag to automatically pay tolls and avoid fines.

Can I take a rented car from Sharjah to other Emirates like Dubai?

Yes, you can drive between emirates in a rental car. However some agencies may limit cross-emirate usage, so check in advance.

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