Car Lease Dubai: Top 5 Dubai Car Rental Scams to Watch For

Dubai gives drivers many car leasing options but the market also attracts dishonest agents who try to take advantage of people. Whether you live in Dubai or visit as a tourist you must understand how these scams work. This guide shows you the top five scams in the car lease Dubai market and gives tips to avoid each one.   

Top 5 Car Lease Dubai Scams in Dubai

1. The "Free Upgrade" Bait-and-Switch Scam

Some rental agents promote luxury cars at cheap prices to catch your attention. When you show up, they say the car is not available and offer a lower model instead. They then ask for more money to give you the vehicle they promised. This trick pressures you into accepting a bad deal.

How to Avoid It:

• Always get the vehicle details in writing
• Check online reviews for complaints about false upgrades
• Walk away if someone pressures you at the last minute.

2. Fake Damage Claims (Pre-Existing Scratches & Dents)

Some companies blame you for scratches dents or stains that already existed on the car. They then charge you high repair costs that can reach thousands of dirhams. This scam often happens at the end of the lease when you return the car.

How to Avoid It:

• Take clear photos and videos of the entire car before you drive away.
• Record the condition during the inspection with a timestamp.
• Always inspect the vehicle during daylight to see everything clearly.

3. Hidden Mileage Limits ("Unlimited" Isn’t Always Unlimited)

Some rental contracts say unlimited mileage but the fine print sets a daily cap like 300 kilometers. If you go over this hidden limit the company charges you extra per kilometer. These costs build up fast and catch many drivers by surprise.

How to Avoid It:

• Ask if there is a daily mileage limit before you sign.
• Read the full rental agreement carefully.
• Choose trusted brands that clearly list their mileage rules.

4. Bogus Cleaning Fees (Even for Minor Dirt)

A few companies charge extra cleaning fees even when the car looks fine. They may claim you left behind dust sand or food crumbs and add a charge between 200 and 500 dirhams to your bill.

How to Avoid It:

• Clean the car before you return it
• Take photos of the inside and outside at drop off
• Check if the cleaning cost is already in your contract.

5. Deposit Non-Refund Scams (Delays & Fake Deductions)

Most car lease Dubai companies ask for a security deposit between 1000 and 5000 dirhams. Some delay the refund for months while others deduct unfair charges for vague reasons like tire wear or small marks.

How to Avoid It:

• Use a credit card so you can challenge bad charges later.
• Make sure both you and the company sign a full condition report.
• Choose companies that return deposits quickly some do it in 24 hours.

Further Reading: Monthly Car Rental Dubai: What to Consider in Selecting Best Car Rental Deals

Bonus: How to Spot a Scam Car Lease Dubai Deal

• Always verify that the rental company has a real office.
• Avoid deals that only accept cash trustworthy agencies accept cards.
• Read the entire contract before you sign to check for vague terms.

What to Do If You’re face Car Lease Dubai Scam

If a company scams you keep all proof like emails photos and receipts. Report the case to Dubai Police by calling 901 or contact the DED Consumer Protection Department. If you paid with a card, contact your bank quickly to start a chargeback. If you are a visitor, you can also ask your embassy for help if you lose a large amount of money.

Final Verdict

Dubai’s car lease market offers great options, but scams do happen. Protect yourself by verifying companies, reading the contract carefully and inspecting the vehicle before signing anything. Taking these steps helps ensure a safe and cost-effective leasing experience.