How to rent van in Abu Dhabi - Full Guide

Easy Guide to Renting a Van in Abu Dhabi for Travel to Dubai Your Friendly Travel Blog Guide for a Smooth and Fun Van Trip

Introduction: Why Rent a Van in Abu Dhabi?

Abu Dhabi is a beautiful city with big roads, shiny buildings, and fun places to visit. But sometimes, you may want to go on a trip with your friends or family. You may want to travel to Dubai, go to a desert camp, or just explore different areas. A van is a great choice for group travel.

Renting a van in Abu Dhabi is not hard. In this easy guide, I will explain step-by-step how to rent a van, how to book it for Dubai, which companies are best, and helpful tips so you enjoy your journey without stress.

Who Should Rent a Van in Abu Dhabi?

A van is perfect for:

Big families (5 or more people)

Friends going on a group trip

Business teams needing to go to events

Tourists going on long drives, like to Dubai or Al Ain

People with a lot of luggage (like airport pickups)

If you are alone or just two people, a van may be too big. But for a group, it is the best and most comfortable option.

Types of Vans You Can Rent in Abu Dhabi

There are many types of vans. You should choose one that fits your needs. Here are the popular ones:

12-seater van – Great for large families or tour groups

7-seater van – Perfect for medium families

Luxury van – For VIP travel or business meetings

Cargo van – For moving items or boxes, not for people

Mini vans – Good for small groups and easy to drive

Popular van models include Toyota Hiace, Nissan Urvan, Mercedes Sprinter, and Hyundai H1.

How to Rent a Van in Abu Dhabi (Step-by-Step)

Know What You Need Think how many people are going, how far you will go, and how much space you need.

Choose the Type of Van Pick a van size that fits your group and luggage.

Search Online or Visit Company You can search on Google, visit a van rental office, or use travel apps.

Compare Prices and Services Check which company gives good rates, includes driver, fuel policy, and insurance.

Book in Advance Always book 2–3 days early, especially in busy season.

Give Your Documents Most companies ask for your passport copy, driving license (UAE or International), and deposit.

Check the Van Before You Take It Look if the van is clean, has good AC, seat belts, and no damage.

How to Book a Van from Abu Dhabi to Dubai

Dubai is only 1.5 hours drive from Abu Dhabi. Here’s how to book a van for this trip:

Select One-Way or Round Trip You can choose a van that picks you from Abu Dhabi and drops you in Dubai. Or book round trip if you want to come back.

Choose Driver Option You can drive yourself or hire a van with a driver. Hiring with driver is best if you don’t know the roads.

Pick Your Time and Place Most companies will pick you from your hotel, airport, or home.

Online Booking Many websites allow you to select destination, date, time, and number of passengers. Then you can pay online.

Get Confirmation Once you pay, you will get email or WhatsApp with details.

Top Van Rental Companies in Abu Dhabi

Here are some trusted companies for renting vans:

AAli Bus Rental They offer clean van rental in Abu Dhabi with drivers. Many tourists use them. Website: https://www.busrentdubai.ae/van-rental-abu-dhabi/

Quick Lease Rent a Car Good prices and wide range of vans. Website: www.quicklease.ae

Thrifty Car Rental Offers vans with strong air conditioning. Website: www.thriftyuae.com

Speedy Drive Great for booking long distance vans with drivers. Website: www.speedydrive.ae

Shift Car Rental Luxury and economy vans. Very good for airport transfer or city tours. Website: www.shiftcarrental.com

Rental Cars UAE A big online platform where you can compare many companies. Website: www.rentalcarsuae.com

OneClickDrive Has both self-drive and driver-included vans. Website:oneclickdreve

Van vs. Car Rental in Abu Dhabi – What’s Better for Your Trip?

If you are thinking, “Should I rent a van or a car?” — this part will help you decide easily. Both options are good, but it depends on your travel plan.

Here’s a clear and friendly comparison:

Feature Van Rental Car Rental

Best for Big families, groups, luggage, long trips Solo, couples, small families

Seats 7 to 15 people 4 to 5 people

Comfort More space, roomy seats Less space, tight for tall people

Cost per day Higher (AED 400–700+) Lower (AED 200–300)

Driver available Often included or optional Usually self-drive

Fuel usage More fuel due to size Less fuel, cheaper on petrol

Parking Harder to park in small places Easy to park in city or malls

Luggage space Large trunk, fits suitcases easily Small boot, not great for many bags

Road trips Great for desert tours or Dubai trips Good for short drives or 1–2 people only

Easy to drive? Needs experience (or hire a driver) Easy for everyone with license

Which one should you choose?

Choose a van if you have more people, lots of luggage, or want comfort for a long trip like going to Dubai or desert safari.

Choose a car if you’re alone, with one friend, or just exploring inside Abu Dhabi with light bags.

Smart Tip: If you plan to visit many places in one day with a group, a van with a driver is the best option. It keeps you relaxed, and you don’t have to worry about parking or directions.

Cost of Renting a Van in Abu Dhabi

Here’s an idea of prices:

7-seater van: AED 450 – AED 600 per day

12-seater van: AED 500 – AED 700 per day

Luxury van: AED 600 – AED 1200 per day

With driver: Add AED 200 – AED 300 per day

Dubai trip: AED 300 – AED 700 for one-way trip

Prices may change based on time of year, van model, fuel charges, and if you need extra service.

Documents You Need for Van Rental

For tourists and visitors:

Passport copy

International driving permit (if self-drive)

Credit card for deposit

UAE visa copy (if asked)

For UAE residents:

Emirates ID

UAE driving license

Credit card or cash deposit

Tips for Smooth Van Rental in Abu Dhabi

Always read the contract – Check for hidden fees or fuel rules.

Ask about insurance – Make sure you are covered for road accidents.

Check if toll (Salik) is included – Some charge you later.

Don’t overpack – Vans have limits on bags.

Use Google Maps or ask driver – To avoid traffic.

Call 24/7 helpline – Good rental companies give support.

Be on time for pickup – Especially if you have a driver.

Best Places to Visit in Dubai by Van

Once you rent a van in Abu Dhabi and go to Dubai, you can explore these places:

Burj Khalifa – World’s tallest tower

Dubai Mall – Shopping and fun under one roof

Desert Safari – Go on sand dunes in a 4x4

Palm Jumeirah – Man-made island shaped like a palm

Global Village – Enjoy food, shows, and culture

Dubai Marina – Boat rides and tall buildings

Dubai Frame – Great view of old and new Dubai

JBR Beach – Relax at the beach with cafes

Your van driver can take you to all these places in one day or two days, depending on your plan.

When is the Best Time to Rent a Van?

Best time is:

October to March – Weather is cool and good for road trips

Avoid summer (June–August) – Very hot, vans may overheat

Book early during holidays – Eid, New Year, and school breaks are busy

Conclusion: Make Your Van Trip Easy and Fun

Renting a van in Abu Dhabi is a smart and easy way to enjoy a group journey. Whether you are going to Dubai for fun, airport transfers, or family events, a van gives you space, comfort, and freedom.

Remember to book from trusted companies, check the van before use, and enjoy every moment on the road. With the right planning, your Abu Dhabi to Dubai van trip will be full of happy memories.

Safe travels and happy road adventures!