SIXT Rent a Car

Sixt’s rental services in Dubai are standard but traveler-friendly. The company offers 24/7 roadside assistance and multi-day or long-term rentals via its online portal. One-way drop-offs within the city are allowed (for a fee). English‑speaking agents staff the Dubai branches, and Sixt highlights flexible booking (e.g. free modification/cancellation). Typical add-ons (GPS, child seats, extra driver) are available. Important rules: drivers must be 21+ (age 27+ for some luxury categories), with a minimum 1-year license. Payment requires a major credit card (Visa/Mastercard only – no AMEX or debit cards). Expect to submit your passport and local license at pickup (an International Driving Permit is needed if your license isn’t in Latin script). Note that Dubai enforces electronic tolls via the Salik system; Sixt reminds renters to use a Salik tag on all toll roads.

Fleet Types in Dubai: Economy to Luxury

• Economy/Compact Cars: Sixt’s site mentions "economy cars" alongside SUVs, implying standard small models (think Toyota Corolla, Hyundai Elantra, etc.). Travelers can pick up sedans or hatchbacks for city use.
• SUVs: Sixt Dubai highlights a "wide range" of SUVs. These range from mid-size crossovers to large 7-seat models. Specifically, it lists premium-brand SUVs (Mercedes-Benz GLB, BMW X‑series equivalents, and even Cadillac), as well as rugged crossovers (e.g. GAC GS8, Tonale). This suits families or desert trips.
• Premium/Luxury Cars: The fleet includes executive sedans and sports models. Official copy invites renters to "get a luxury car" if they want to "fit in with the locals". Brands typically include Mercedes-Benz E‑Class, Audi A6, BMW 5‑Series, and various high-end convertibles. (An affiliate blog gushes that "models from Mercedes, BMW and Audi are statements of stature and style" – reflecting Sixt’s luxury tilt.)
• Convertibles and Exotics: The UAE market often sees convertibles (BMW 4-series, Mercedes SLK) and specialty exotics (e.g. Maserati, Jaguar) in rental fleets. While Sixt’s official pages don’t list each model, they do mention "convertibles" and "luxury vehicles" among options, so these are generally available by request.
• Electric/Hybrid: Sixt has a company‑wide push to electrify its fleet (globally offering Tesla Model 3, BMW iX, etc.). In Dubai, explicit EV models on offer aren’t listed online, but the UAE market is rapidly adding electric rentals. For comparison, competitor Hertz UAE already reports ~15% of its fleet is electric/hybrid (Volvo, Polestar, upcoming BYD), and Europcar stresses hybrid/electric options. It’s reasonable to expect Sixt to also provide plug-in hybrids or EVs (e.g. Hyundai Ioniq5, Tesla) in Dubai.

Customer Ratings and Feedback

Recent customer ratings are generally positive but mixed on specifics. On DiscoverCars, Sixt Dubai has an average score around 7.5/10 (12 reviews). (By contrast, Hertz UAE scores ~8.5/10 and Europcar DXB ~7.0/10 on that platform, giving a sense of relative satisfaction.)

Positive feedback: Many renters praise Sixt staff and clean cars. For example, Sixt’s UAE site highlights reviews: one customer raved "Always professional service. Cars are clean and very well maintained", and another wrote "Great fast service! Always recommend Sixt!". On Sixt’s Dubai page, a traveler singled out an agent by name, noting "Ms. Macky… outstanding customer service" and a "spotless" car. These echo general sentiments: Sixt vehicles are usually new and well-kept, and staff members often get high marks for helpfulness.

Negative feedback: As with any rental brand, some customers report issues. A recurring complaint is billing/deposit delays. For instance, one guest mentioned a required deposit of 6,000 AED took two months to return. Another reviewer advised caution when declining insurance at the counter (a common upsell tactic). Some travelers have noted occasional delivery wait times or extra fees for underbody damage. On DiscoverCars, Europcar (as a comparator) shows typical issues like waiting to replace broken cars or ding check – similar headaches can occur with any agency, including Sixt. In summary, recent reviews of Sixt Dubai tend to commend the vehicle quality and staff, while warning travelers to document the car’s condition and confirm return details to avoid surprise charges.

Sixt vs. Hertz and Europcar in Dubai

Fleet and Vehicle Quality: Sixt’s niche in Dubai is premium vehicles. It often fields newer, high-spec cars (e.g. top-trim Mercedes/Audi/BMW) compared to Hertz or Europcar. Hertz UAE, part of Al-Futtaim, operates a massive mixed fleet (over 11,000 cars nationwide) ranging from economy compact cars to large SUVs and commercial vehicles. Hertz also offers luxury models but its emphasis is on variety and volume. Europcar Dubai has over 14 locations (Dubai + Northern Emirates) with a broad inventory "from Economy to luxury vehicles". They highlight eco-friendly options in line with global trends. In effect, Sixt’s cars tend to be more upscale and performance‑oriented on average, while Hertz/Europcar cover the full spectrum (from budget compacts to fancy cars) and often feature local brands (e.g. Toyota, Nissan, Renault) for economy.

Customer Service & Process: Anecdotally, all three offer competent service but with different reputations. Sixt promotes quick, English-speaking service and flexible online booking. Hertz is known for a loyalty program (Hertz Gold) and recently touted its digital platforms (70% of business now online). Europcar focuses on tailored solutions (long-term leases, subscription "Flex" plans) and sustainability. Travel forums suggest Hertz is generally reliable (many expats use Hertz without issue), while some find Hertz airport counters crowded. Europcar often earns points for personal attention but gets similar cautionary notes about add-ons. Overall satisfaction appears comparable: DiscoverCars rates Hertz UAE higher (8.5/10) than Sixt (7.5) and Europcar (7.0), but sample sizes differ. In real-world terms, Sixt customers often praise the pristine cars and process, whereas Hertz/Europcar users highlight value and convenience.

Rental Experience: Process-wise, all three require passport+license checks, credit cards for deposit, and Salik tags. Hertz and Europcar (being larger) sometimes have more hand-holding for corporate accounts. Sixt’s added value is often its location convenience and flexible terms (free cancellation, one-way rentals). But travelers note common industry quirks — e.g. pressure to take insurances, waiting at the counter during peak hours, or careful intake inspections — apply to all major brands equally. In short, Sixt is chosen when making a statement or needing a luxury vehicle, whereas Hertz and Europcar are go-to brands for broad coverage and established trust.

Key Tips for Renting in Dubai

• Book Early, Especially Luxury Models: Dubai’s tourism and business travel demand premium cars. Reserve your desired model well ahead to avoid disappointment.
• Check Age/License Requirements: You must be ≥21 (often 27+ for high-end vehicles) with a license issued at least 1 year ago. If your license isn’t in English/Arabic script, carry an International Driving Permit.
• Use a Credit Card: Only Visa or MasterCard credit cards are accepted (no debit cards or AmEx). Ensure your card has sufficient limit for the security deposit.
• Inspect the Car Thoroughly: Before driving off, note every scratch or dent (even minor ones) on the rental form. Take timestamped photos. This prevents disputes later over vehicle condition.
• Know Your Insurance: Basic Collision Damage Waiver is usually included, but check the excess (often a few thousand AED). You may pre-purchase full coverage or top-ups; be wary of last-minute counter sales and compare with third-party options.
• Tolls and Traffic Rules: Dubai has multiple toll roads (Salik tag) – budget for these. Do not turn right on red unless a green arrow/yield sign permits it. Always yield to emergency vehicles.
• Fuel Policy: Fill up (or charge) the tank before return to avoid refueling fees. Petrol stations are plentiful; if you rent a hybrid/EV, plan your charging stops (apps like PlugShare help).
• Return Process: Allow extra time at drop-off to inspect for issues. Keep your paperwork and fuel receipts until the final invoice/receipt is clear.

By following these tips and comparing options, international visitors and expats can choose the right rental for their Dubai trip. Sixt offers a luxurious fleet and attentive service, backed by generally strong review. But as with any rental, read the fine print and drive safely.