Rental Car Pickup and Return Checklist
Ten minutes at pickup and ten at return prevent nearly every argument about a rental car. The method is simple: record everything, in photos, at both ends.
Written by the Najd Rent a Car team. Last reviewed .
What should I do at pickup?
Do these before the car moves.
- Film a slow walk around the car in good light, then photograph each panel, wheel and the windscreen.
- Photograph the interior, including seats and the boot.
- Photograph the fuel gauge and the odometer with the ignition on.
- Check that every existing mark is on the handover form before you sign.
- Confirm the return date, time and place, and the fuel level expected.
What should I do during the rental?
Keep the agreement and the company’s number in your phone. Report any warning light, puncture or accident immediately instead of waiting until return. If there is accident damage, obtain a police report at the time. It cannot easily be done afterwards.
What should I do at return?
Refuel to the agreed level and keep the receipt. Remove your belongings and check under the seats. Repeat the photos and video, including the fuel and odometer. Return on time, and ask for written confirmation that the car was received and in what condition.
Official sources
Rules change. Check the current position with the authority concerned before you travel.
Cars mentioned in this guide
- 5 seats
- 3 bags
- Automatic
AED 650 per week · AED 2,600 per month
- 7 seats
- 3 bags
- Automatic
AED 1,200 per week · AED 4,200 per month
Related rental options
More guides
Pickup and return: questions people ask
What should I check before driving a rental car away?
Existing damage, fuel level, mileage, tyres, lights and air conditioning. Photograph all of it and make sure marks are recorded on the handover form.
What happens if I return a rental car late?
Late return is normally charged, often as an extra day. Ask what the grace period is, and call ahead if you are running late.
Do I need to refuel the car before returning it?
Return it at the fuel level stated in your agreement. If it is lower, the company will charge for the difference.
How do I avoid being charged for damage I did not cause?
Time-stamped photos and video at pickup and return, plus a signed handover form listing existing marks. That evidence settles almost every dispute.
Does Najd Rent a Car inspect the car with the customer?
We encourage every customer to walk around the car with our staff and photograph it before signing. Our service standards page lists the checks we recommend.
Still have a question?
Call or WhatsApp 058 595 2763. Same number for both.