Do you think you will have to empty your account to experience the luxuries of Dubai on your next trip?
If so, then you should read this article to clarify your misconception.
Indeed, Dubai is all about show-stopping skyscrapers, grand malls, over-the-top restaurants, futuristic luxurious, and a runway for some of the best of the best cars in the world. But it is also an ideal destination when you want to enjoy the best of the world without emptying your bank account.
If you can afford a decent foreign and are curious to explore Dubai, this guide will provide you with valuable practical tips to save money without giving up on comfort.
Here are some of the most well-researched and realistic plans to balance your spending with visits to memorable hotspots like the Palm Jumeirah, Hatta, Jebel Jais, and more.
The majority of the popular driving landscapes around Dubai, such as the Hajar mountains, desert dunes, oasis towns, coastal views, and more, can be reached through a drive of a few hours.
If you compare it with guided tours, the self-driving experience gives more flexibility and has a low per-person cost, especially if you share it among 3-4 travellers.
Especially to keep the expenses low, keep your focus on smart rental choices, fuel and tolls polling and a few straggling splurges. Here’s your guide to an affordable road trip in Dubai:
When you want to balance affordability with a comfortable experience, consider driving an SUV for trips to the beach and mountain roads.
You don’t necessarily need to rent the most expensive luxury car model. Instead, you can choose the right type of luxury car for your route, without having to overspend on it.
Some of the best value luxury car models are:
Some useful ways to save on overspending on luxury rental costs are as follows:
Especially when you want to take scenic drives to Hatta, Jebel Jais, or similar places, a mid-range SUV offers a good level of comfort and performance. This is comparable to a super high-end model, without the need to spend a substantial amount.
Dubai has a city-wide Salik toll system, with gates situated on major highways. Every toll costs only AWD 4, and they can increase easily during multi-day trips. Some ways to save money on tolls can include:
When you strategically plan your route in Dubai, you can reduce toll costs dramatically, especially on longer routes.
Although luxury car models can consume a lot of fuel in comparison to compact vehicles, you can still manage to keep it budget-friendly. Some quick tips to save fuel costs on your luxury rental cars are:
Dubai has one of the strictest driving regulations in the world. It means the fines levied on you can be extremely expensive. But you can avoid them to keep your trip budget-friendly in the following ways:
Also, ensure some important details before renting a luxury car by checking the type of your insurance coverage, confirming the deposit policy, and noting that you will be charged fines in case of violation.
Some of the most cost-effective road trip routes from Dubai that are suitable for a luxury vehicle can include:
Dubai and Hatta are a 1.5-hour road trip suitable for nature lovers, couples, and families. You can enjoy Hatta Dam Kayaking, explore the heritage villages, and go on hiking trails. Most of these viewpoints will be free, and other nearby activities are generally low-cost.
Hatta is especially peaceful, scenic, and suitable for a relaxing and budget-friendly gateway. Moreover, driving over the mountains can be ideal for driving in a luxury SUV.
For a longer trip, consider a 2.5-hour Dubai and Jebel Jais road trip. It offers numerous opportunities for adventure trips and photography. There are several viewing decks, sunset points, and mountain roads along the path, with only paid zipline options available.
The wide roads with cool winds and panoramic views make it the best, treating you to some of the most breathtaking views from your luxury rental car ride.
Dubai to Abu Dhabi is another short 1.5-hour road trip suitable for Architecture enthusiasts and family trips. Along the trip, you will get to see the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the Louvre Abu Dhabi, and the Corniche Beach.
Unlike other popular road trips, the journey from Dubai to Abu Dhabi is an affordable one, with most attractions being free or low-cost. Moreover, the smooth highways would be perfect for a comfortable ride in premium sedans.
If you are looking for a longer yet low-cost trip, a 3-4 hour Dubai-Liwa Oasis trip would be worth your time. This is ideal for someone who wants to explore the beauty of the deserts in Dubai.
Some of the highlights of this trip would be sand dunes, historic forts, and stargazing activities. It will mostly be a free-of-cost trip unless you are looking for a desert stay. A wiser decision would be to take an SUV or a similar reliable car for this long journey.
The most common misconception about luxury is that it is expensive. But it is not true. You can even save on your luxury trips by choosing clean, modern 3-or 4-star hotels located outside city centers.
Additionally, you can opt for weekday stays instead of weekends, which are typically more expensive.
Moreover, you can try local cafes, Arabic restaurants, or food trucks over expensive fine dining restaurants. Alongside, carry water, food, and fruits to avoid spending your money on premium roadside snacks. Some ideal places where you can spend your money include:
In this, you can strike a balance between affordability and luxury experiences.
It will be a smart idea to save on overspending by carrying a few small items to save money, such as:
When you are going for a 3-day trip to Dubai with 2 people, the common costs and total estimated cost for the trip can be as follows:
Based on these expenses, the total estimated cost for your Dubai road trip can fall between AED 3,200-6,500 for the entire trip.
A Dubai road trip with a luxury rental car can be a perfect combination of comfort, adventure, and style. Moreover, you can plan strategically to make it budget-friendly.
So, just pick your choice or car, wisely plan your routes, understand tolls, fuels, and other things for smart savings.
What stops you? Take a book and pen in hand, open the internet, and begin your planning now.
Phantom Rent a Car are experts in high-quality luxury cars combined with expert service. We help turn your dreams into a reality by providing you with the largest fleet of luxury hire cars to choose from. Our luxury cars allow you to explore everything that Dubai has to offer in style, immersing yourself in the culture, elegance and sophistication of the region.
