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A First-Hand Experience Of Taking A Red Eye Flight!

A First-Hand Experience Of Taking A Red Eye Flight!

Oct 19, 2023

Last Updated on: Sep 22, 2025

Red eye flights are those overnight journeys that take off late in the evening and land in the morning.

Now, you might be one of those travelers for whom this means sacrificing a good night’s sleep. this, which can lead to that telltale fatigue. And, of course, you will get red eyes after landing.

Interestingly, these flights tend to be longer and are more common in regions outside the Western world.

This is largely because many airports have strict curfews that limit flight schedules, like in:

Europe

Australia

North America

That said, it’s not like airlines in the Western world shy away from red-eye flights entirely. In fact, when it comes to westbound transatlantic routes, red eyes have become something of a standard among both European and American carriers.

In this article, I’ll dive into the reasons why red eye flights exist and will weigh their pros and cons. By the end, you’ll feel like you’ve experienced what it’s like to take a red eye flight for yourself!

What Is A Red Eye Flight?

Whether you enjoy these nighttime hauls or not, red eye flights are quite a regular thing for people flying long distances.

They depart from their home terminal at night and reach their destination in the morning.

They are so named because of the physical toll it takes on the passengers, causing them to get red eyes.

Most of these red eye flights take off when flying to the east side. For instance, when you fly from Los Angeles to New York or from New York to London.

But there are exceptions to such flights, such as when you are flying north or south between long distances.

For example, if you fly between North and South America or Europe and Africa.

The whole idea behind red eye flights is to save daylight and maximize your time spent at home and at your destination.

Flying through the night helps you avoid losing a day in travel. It also helps save money spent on a night stay at a hotel. They are cheaper than day flights, too, making it a cost-effective option for budget travelers.

In some cases, there are actually no other options but to take a red eye flight because your origin and destination do not have day flights to begin with.

My Red Eye Flight Experience From Bahrain To London

Recently, I had the experience of taking three flights for one destination. I flew three different classes of travel on a single ticket.

I bought a Premium Economy round-trip ticket from London to Bahrain ten months before my flight. In this firsthand red eye flight experience, I will share my pretty good experience with Lufthansa during my return journey from Bahrain to London Heathrow, which involved a layover in Riyadh.

The expenses of Lufthansa flights to the Middle East did not follow a linear increase as the departure day approached. I have included two charts below to show how the price of my flight changed leading up to the day of departure and after the flight’s schedule was revised.

Lufthansa operates a daily flight from its ground base in Frankfurt to Bahrain International Airport with a layover in Riyadh.

This is a usual setup as it’s a daily flight to Dammam via Kuwait. So, I couldnt book Both Bahrain-Riyadh and Kuwait-Dammam as fifth freedom flights.

Intriguingly, Lufthansa continuously adjusts its schedule for destinations in the Middle East. According to Routes Online, Lufthansa would originally fly to Bahrain via Doha in 2014, but it stopped in 2015 when services to Doha were renewed and and operations to Muscat instead.

Before Lufthansa stopped all flights to Doha in 2017, they operated Frankfurt-Kuwait-Doha flights. In 2017, flights to Bahrain were via Dammam, and in 2018, they were via Kuwait. When I bought my ticket in August 2018, my planned route was Heathrow-Frankfurt-Kuwait-Bahrain, but it changed to Heathrow-Frankfurt-Riyadh-Bahrain in September 2018.

Lufthansa used to operate Riyadh as a non-stop flight without onward legs in 2015, but after discontinuing Doha in 2017, they started flying Frankfurt-Riyadh-Dammam while also initiating flights to Bahrain via Kuwait. However, things were changed again in 2018.

Flight 1: Premium Economy, Bahrain To Riyadh

When I was at Bahrain International Airport via Uber, I made it through passport control and security within 15 minutes.

The aircraft assigned for the flight was D-AIKN, which is an A330-343X. Boarding began at 23:20.

This was slightly late, but it didn’t matter since only 20 passengers were boarding the red-eye flight A330.

In fact, the gate push-off time was 11.42 pm, eight minutes early. The Premium Economy section of the plane had four rows with seven seats each.

There were only seven passengers, resulting in a load factor of 25% in this segment.

The legroom was spacious enough, allowing the passenger in front to recline without any pressure on the person seated behind.

The amenity kit for the Premium Economy included a toothbrush and toothpaste, a refreshment towel, a sleeping mask, earplugs, and a thick pair of socks.

Although the earplugs were weak and the face mask didn’t isolate light fully, the socks were comfortable. The IFE system was not as good as Emirates’, but it had decent options.

One of the few features was live GPS tracking of the aircraft. During the Bahrain-Riyadh journey, they played the movie “100 Things,” a 2018 German film.

Despite leaving Bahrain eight minutes early, the plane arrived in Riyadh five minutes late, as we had to wait for other people to vacate our gate.

Flight 2: Business Class, Riyadh To Frankfurt

During the second flight from Riyadh to Frankfurt, since it wasn’t a fifth freedom flight, passengers traveling to Frankfurt from Bahrain were not required to leave the aircraft in Riyadh.

After being told to stay seated for ten minutes while they were refueling the plane, a representative from Lufthansa’s Riyadh airport asked me to follow him into Business.

They gave me seat 10H since the Premium Economy and Economy classes were ready to fill up with passengers for the Riyadh-Frankfurt flight.

The flight from Riyadh to Frankfurt was entirely full in Economy, Premium Economy, and Business.

The headphones provided by Lufthansa in Business were exceptional, as they blocked out all noise.

The sound quality from the IFE was also excellent, allowing me to sleep soundly. They attached the headphones to the seat, so I couldn’t remove them.

My red-eye flight departed from Riyadh King Khalid at 2:10 am, 15 minutes late, and arrived in Frankfurt at 7:14 am, one minute early. The average delay for the flight LH637 is ten minutes.

Flight 3: Economy, Frankfurt To London Heathrow

Regrettably, the last flight of my three-flight sequence was delayed despite arriving early from its previous flight.

The reason for the delay was that the aircraft, which was Lufthansa’s first A320neo with the registration D-AINC, took over an hour to clean.

Although I managed to secure an emergency exit row window seat, which I chose for free during check-in, the legroom on short-haul flights with Lufthansa was a bit disappointing for me.

Moreover, the sandwich served on the flight contained cream and cheese, which was not suitable for me as I do not eat dairy. Unfortunately, there were no alternative options available for me.

Another slight disappointment was that I didn’t get any water from the crew before takeoff. So, I had to wait for a long time before we took off due to the delay.

The flight was full in Economy and Business class, and despite the plane being on time on average, we arrived 40 minutes late at our destination in London after pushing off from Frankfurt 29 minutes late.

Additionally, we spent a considerable amount of time circling around London. It was not a big inconvenience, but the service was not as good as my previous flights with Lufthansa.

However, I must acknowledge that Lufthansa quickly and smoothly compensated me with 600 Euros for the missed connecting flight during my outbound journey.

What Are Some Common Health Issues Associated With Red Eye Flight?

When it comes to red-eye flights, there are definitely some health concerns to keep in mind.

The term “red-eye” highlights the common experience of passengers landing with bloodshot eyes, often from feeling exhausted, dealing with jet lag, and battling dehydration.

1. Fatigue

strikes when you can’t get a decent night’s sleep. Unfortunately, finding that restful sleep on a plane can be quite challenging without taking some extra steps to make it comfortable.

2. Jet lag

It is something we typically think of with quick shifts in time zones, but it hits even harder on overnight flights. However, if you’re savvy about your body’s internal clock, you may be able to ease some of the negative effects of jet lag during these journeys.

3. Dehydration

It’s not as rare as you might think on flights. While cabin crew are usually attentive to serving food and drinks, red-eye flights might have fewer staff on duty, making it tougher to stay hydrated when you need it most.

If you often find yourself on these overnight flights, it’s important to be aware of the potential long-term health implications.

Regularly missing out on good sleep can weaken your immune system and lead to serious issues like sleep disorders, depression, and even an increased risk of heart attacks and cancer.

So, while those red-eye flights can be convenient, it’s wise to take care of your well-being.

Which Class Should You Choose While Opting For Red Eye Flight?

When it comes to red-eye flights, the health risks might sound pretty daunting, but thankfully, there are some effective ways to cope with them.

One of the most crucial steps you can take for your well-being during a night flight is to select the right class.

Sure, economy tickets can save you some cash, especially on these overnight flights, but there’s a reason they’re cheaper.

The lack of comfortable seating can make it really tough to catch some quality sleep. Plus, the passengers usually cram the economy sections, which only adds to the noise and can disturb your rest.

On the other hand, if you opt for business or a higher class, you’ll find much better seating and more appropriate lighting, and flight attendants who will cater to your needs by:—

Serving meals
Providing pillows
Helping you stay hydrated

You can manage some of these comforts on your own. Stil, I would say that investing in a better class ticket can definitely make a difference in how well you handle that long, overnight journey.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are Red Eye Flights More Dangerous?

No, red-eye flights are not inherently more dangerous than daytime flights in terms of safety; if anything, they are generally safer due to less air traffic and pilots flying more on instruments.

2. Are Red Eye Flights Cheaper?

Yes, red-eye flights are often cheaper because airlines price them lower to fill planes during off-peak overnight hours. This makes them attractive to budget-conscious travelers.

3. Is Red Eye Flight Booking Difficult?

Not at all. You can just visit an airline’s website or a flight comparison site. Then, you have to enter your origin and destination. Finally, you can filter for flights departing after 9 PM and arriving early the next morning.

Get Ready For Your Upcoming Red Eye Flight!

Honestly, their customer service impressed me so much that I would choose Lufthansa for all my future connecting red-eye flights.

If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask, please leave a comment below! We would love to hear from you!

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Sibashree Bhattacharya

Meet Sibashree Bhattacharya, a travel enthusiast who has a decade-long experience in transcending virtual barriers with her words! Her deep love for travel is apparent from her travel escapades to the mountain, often taking her readers on a journey, her words acting as Portkey! Fun fact: Sibashree loves to dive deep into the history of the places she is about to visit, making her travels even more wholesome. If you were wondering how her articles are not short of time travel, this answers it!

From Gatwick To Sunshine: Straightforward Tricks For Cheaper Holidays

BY Sibashree Aug 28, 2025

Flying out of Gatwick should feel exciting, not stressful. A bit of planning turns a pricey trip into a fair one. The goal here is simple: spend less on the boring parts and more on the fun parts. These tips keep things calm, clear, and friendly to your wallet, whether the destination is Spain, Greece, or a city break in Europe. In this Tour and Travel blog, we will share the best advice for Gatwick to Sunshine travel and smart tips. What Is The Best Advice For Gatewick To Sunshine Travel? A cheaper holiday is not about luck. It is about small choices made early. Pick calm travel dates, set a firm budget, and search with a plan. Pack light to dodge bag fees, carry snacks to stop impulse buys, and sort travel to the airport before booking. Keep documents in one place and arrive with time to spare. At the destination, choose simple, local options and enjoy the free parts first. Do these steps and the flight from Gatwick leads straight to the good part: warm sun, clear days, and a trip that feels smart from start to finish. Here are more practical tips to follow. 1. Book At The Right Moment Without Overthinking It Prices move all the time. Looking too early can mean paying more, and leaving it too late can do the same. A steady plan works best. Watch fares for a couple of weeks, set a clear budget, and move when the price fits the plan. Midweek flights often cost less than weekends because fewer people can travel then. Early morning and late evening flights also tend to be cheaper, and they can help you fit more daylight into your first or last day away. School breaks push prices up around the UK, especially at Gatwick where many families fly. If travel must fall in a busy week, focus on the first or last days of the break, when demand can dip. Flexibility by even one day can save a surprising amount. 2. Know Where To Hunt For Fair Prices Search tools help, but the trick is to use them with a plan. Compare a few dates at once rather than chasing a single day. Check nearby airports too—Stansted, Luton, and even Birmingham or Bristol can be cheaper for the same destination. If a package is easier than DIY, one handy thing to do is check out Cheap Holidays through reputable websites. This keeps options in one place so less time is spent opening dozens of tabs. Set clear rules before searching. Decide the top price that feels right, pick three date ranges, and choose a shortlist of destinations. This stops scrolling for hours and avoids the “maybe it will be cheaper tomorrow” trap. 3. Trim Bag Costs Before Pressing “Pay” Bags are where budgets go missing. Many low-cost fares include only a small personal item. Measure the bag at home. If a wheeled carry-on is needed, add it during booking; buying it at the airport is usually the most expensive option. Weigh the case after packing and leave a little space for souvenirs. Two people can share one checked bag instead of paying for two. Rolling clothes saves space, and packing cubes stop shirts from getting crumpled. Liquids go in small bottles under the limit, and solid versions of shampoo or soap can reduce hassle. A light rucksack keeps hands free, which helps when moving through busy train platforms on the way to Gatwick. 4. Be Smart With Seats, Extras, And Food Seat choice looks cheap at first, then adds up. If the plane is short-haul and the group can sit near each other without picking exact seats, skip the fee. For families with young children, airlines often seat at least one adult next to a child. Extra-legroom seats are nice, but a short flight does not always need them. Bring a small snack from home and refill a water bottle after security to avoid paying airport prices. A simple sandwich packed the night before costs less and saves time in queues. Travel insurance should not be an afterthought. Pick a basic policy that covers bags and delays. It costs far less than replacing a suitcase or missing a connection. Print or save the policy and booking codes to the phone wallet so everything is in one place. 5. Choose The Best Route To The Terminal Getting to Gatwick can be almost as costly as flying. Trains are usually faster and often cheaper than parking, especially if travelling alone or as a pair. Off-peak tickets help, and railcards can cut a third off many fares. If a car is needed, book parking early. Official long-stay or trusted off-site car parks give better value than turning up on the day. For a very early flight, a simple hotel near the airport can make sense. Sometimes a “park, sleep, fly” bundle beats buying those parts on their own. 6. Keep Documents Tidy And Move Through The Airport With Ease Put passports, boarding passes, insurance, and hotel details in one folder or a secure phone wallet. Follow the signs, keep pockets empty at security, and place electronics in the tray as asked. Once airside, check the gate early but do not crowd it. Boarding happens in groups. 7. Stretch The Budget At The Destination Transfers from the airport are a classic money trap. Public buses and trains are cheaper than taxis in many places, and many cities sell simple day passes. If a taxi is needed, use the official rank or a trusted app from the country. For hotels, paying for breakfast is not always the best value. Local bakeries often cost less and taste better. Refill water where it is safe to do so. Museums, parks, and city walks are free or low-cost and fill a day nicely. The cheapest option is not always the one shouted by the person with the loudest voice. Read a few recent reviews, check the time they pick up, and stick to plans that leave room for rest. 8. Make Family Travel Simple Small habits help families save. Pack one small entertainment pouch for each child: crayons, a short book, headphones, and a snack. For buggies, check the airline rules; many allow them to the gate, which saves renting one on arrival. If a child gets tired in queues, breathing games and counting steps keep minds busy and moods steady. 9. Stay Healthy And Safe Without Stress Sun trips need sunscreen, hats, and water. Buy travel-size sunscreen at a local shop if carry-on liquid rules make it tricky. A tiny first-aid kit with plasters and pain relief avoids a hunt for a pharmacy. Keep a backup of documents in cloud storage in case a phone is lost. Clear information saves 10. Skip common Traps That Raise The Bill Dynamic pricing can make the same flight cost more on a second look. Use a fresh browser window or a different device when ready to book. Do not click every add-on in a hurry. Airport currency desks rarely give fair rates; a fee-free card or withdrawing a small amount from an ATM at the destination often works out better. Roaming charges can be high, so check the network’s roaming bundles before leaving. Download maps for offline use to avoid data use on the move. Gatwick-Focused Tips That Make A Difference Know which terminal the flight uses and head there from the start. South Terminal and North Terminal have different security areas, shops, and lounges. The shuttle between them is quick, but changing terminals at the last minute eats up time. If the flight leaves early, pick up breakfast after security to save money. Many gates at Gatwick open closer to boarding time, so waiting near the screens keeps the group flexible. Keep chargers handy; seats near windows often have sockets that help top up a phone before the flight. If returning to Gatwick late at night, check train schedules in advance. Some services finish earlier, and replacement buses can be slower. A backup plan saves from being stuck on a platform in the cold. Read Also: Free And Cheap Things To Do In Phoenix, Arizona | Phoenix Travel Guide On A Shoestring Cheapest Places To Travel Around The World In 2025: Traveling On A Shoestring 9+ Cheapest Places To Travel Now In USA: USA Travel Guide On A Shoestring

Do You Qualify For Cancelled Flight Compensation On Connecting Flights?

BY Sibashree Sep 17, 2025

Flight disruptions can be stressful, especially when your travel plans involve multiple connections. If you’re traveling within, to, or from Europe, you may be entitled to Cancelled Flight Compensation under EU Regulation 261/2004. This regulation ensures that passengers receive financial protection when flights are cancelled, delayed, or overbooked, including scenarios involving connecting flights. Understanding your rights can help you claim compensation effectively and reduce travel-related stress. Understanding EU Regulation 261/2004 For Flight Cancellation Compensation Issued on 11th February 2004 and implemented on 17th February 2025, EU Regulation 261/2004 has clear directives about the flight cancellation compensation rights. Furthermore, this regulation is applicable to the following airline services. Flights departing from an EU airport, regardless of the airline. Flights arriving at an EU airport operated by an EU-based airline. This regulation ensures passengers are entitled to compensation if flights are cancelled without adequate notice or rerouting options. The amount of compensation generally depends on the flight distance and the delay caused by the cancellation. Eligibility For Cancelled Flight Compensation On Connecting Flights Have a look at the table below to understand the complex compensation norms for connecting flights. Eligibility CriteriaDetails Single Booking Requirement• Applicable when all flights are booked on a single ticket.• Separate bookings may reduce your rights. Arrival Delays• You can get the compensation if the cancellation leads to a delay of 3 hours or more to reach your final destination. Airline ResponsibilityIf the cancellation happens due to• Technical Problems• Staffing Issues Key Passenger Rights To Know Passengers affected by a cancelled connecting flight are entitled to: Reimbursement of the ticket cost or rerouting to the final destination. Meals, refreshments, and accommodation if delays require overnight stays. Compensation ranging from €250 to €600, depending on the flight distance and delay duration. Moreover, you seek help from platforms such as Skycop to simplify your flight cancellation compensation claims. Am I Eligible For Flight Cancellation Compensation Under Extraordinary Circumstances? No, you are not eligible to get flight cancellation compensation from your airline under extraordinary situations. Here, the extraordinary circumstances refer to situations that are beyond the grasp of the airline authorities. 1. Extreme Weather Conditions And Natural Disasters For example, if the weather conditions worsen or there is a sudden natural disaster like a typhoon, a tsunami, or tornadoes, any airline will not be able to offer service. In some cases, these natural disasters can completely ruin the infrastructure of the airports. 2. Global Pandemic And Safety Issues Similarly, we have also passed through the COVID-19 stage. If there is any pandemic of this scale, the airline services will be automatically shut down. This is another thing that is beyond the control of an airline service. 3. Political Unrest And Air Traffic Control Every other day, there is some news of a country fighting with another. From the Russian invasion of Ukraine to the Israel-Palestine conflict and the Pakistani terrorist attacks on India, the world has become a war-ridden place in the last few years. Air traffic control is common in these scenarios and these political situations, making air traffic control stronger can cause delays and cancellations of connecting flights. 4. Hijacking And Terrorism Terrorism and hijacking are extreme conditions under which a flight can be cancelled. This is a humanitarian crisis and of course, you cannot hold your airline responsible for these heinous acts. Having said that, extraordinary situations do not mean that you will not get any help from the airline. The airline will assist you by rerouting your journey by arranging another flight or any other suitable mode of transportation. Moreover, if you decide not to travel due to the delay or cancellation of a flight, the airline must provide you with a refund. Will I Get Compensation From My Airline If I Get Late At Work? Your flight is delayed and cancelled, and you are supposed to join a new company or resume office after a break. You can hold the airline responsible for the same, but the compensation scenario is not so easy. Let me explain! The airline will, of course, offer you a refund or compensation for the flight delay or cancellation according to the EU Regulation 261/2004. However, you will not get any compensation for the loss of pay. Practically, there is no legal protection or measure to demand compensation for the loss of pay. It is your duty to negotiate with the employer and check whether you can manage a paid leave or a leave without pay. For the new joinees, you can always convince the HR by explaining your situation and requesting to defer your joining date. Are Technical Problems Of A Flight An Extraordinary Situation? No, according to the Court of Justice of the European Union, a flight delay or cancellation caused by technical problems does not fall under extraordinary circumstances. So, you are eligible for compensation for a cancelled flight under these scenarios. However, if there is a manufacturing defect and your airline identifies and cancels your flight, you cannot hold them responsible for a delay or cancellation. However, even in these scenarios, your airline will have to pay a refund for your ticket or arrange an alternative flight or any other mode of transportation. Know Your Flight Cancellation Compensation Rights And Make Claims So, before boarding a flight or even before booking one, you must be aware of your rights. This is crucial, as often, despite valid claims, the airline companies procrastinate and they assure you to revert within a specific time, but they never do. Furthermore, many airlines look for unofficial settlements, convincing you to receive compensation that is less than the provisions in the 261/2004 regulations. So, if there is a flight delay or cancellation, follow this step-by-step guide to make your claim. Contact the Airline• Inform them about the delay or cancellation.• Discuss options such as rerouting, refunds, and compensationDetermining the Final Arrival Time• Assess the hours of delay you are facing due to the flight cancellation. • Your compensation will depend on the hours of delay you are facing in reaching your destination. Making a Claim• Finally, it’s time to submit your claim. Read Also: How To Enjoy Your Journey After You Book Flight Tickets From Canada To India? How Can You Avoid Travel Stress? Is Travel Anxiety Normal? A First-Hand Experience Of Taking A Red Eye Flight!

From London To The Desert: The Complete Guide To Car Rental In The UAE

BY Barsha Jun 26, 2025

If you're going on a trip from London to the UAE, there's no better way to visit the beautiful landscapes and cosmopolitan cities than by car. If you'd like to drive Dubai's sleek streets or head into the desert, having your own vehicle provides you with freedom and flexibility. This is where a car rental in the UAE comes in. For clients looking for a robust and reliable drive, Nissan Patrol car hire Dubai is a popular choice among travelers, providing the finest of off-road power with comfort and luxury. The following guide walks you through everything one would want to know about car hire in the UAE to help your journey from London to the desert be stress-free and memorable. Car Rental In the UAE: Why Is It Important? You will notice contrasts in every corner of the UAE. You will find tall skyscrapers, high-end shopping malls, scenic mountain roads, and, of course, vast deserts. Moreover, if you plan to visit rural areas, you may not have access to public transportation in certain locations. So, renting a car would be the best option here. Moreover, there are some other benefits that you get from a car rental in the UAE. 1. Flexibility Choosing a car rental in the UAE, you get convenience and freedom. It frees you from the challenges of the public transportation timetable. This will allow you to take impromptu roads and change plans whenever necessary. Time is very important when you are traveling. You will have to manage a lot when you are traveling, and having a car will allow you that freedom. Their first priority is the travelers and their convenience. Moreover, if you want, they will pick you up from anywhere in the city. 2. Luxury And Comfort When you are traveling to the UAE, luxury is obvious, and this is no exception to transportation. From svelte sports cars to spacious SUVs, the automobile rental companies will offer you different options catering to your taste. When you choose a car from the rental services that matches your aesthetics, you enhance your travel experience and make it an important factor for the overall trip. 3. They Adapt To Your Itineraries Travelers have various itinerary options, from taking part in desert activities and beach excursions to cultural discovery. A rental car will adjust to these schedules and make you travel between locations with ease. You will relax and enjoy the drive, and the local car drivers will often offer you anecdotes that you would have missed otherwise. 4. Cost-Effective Solution Even though people might tell you otherwise, renting a car in the UAE is affordable when you have to travel to different locations. If you're someone who prefers convenience, comfort, and time, then this could be one of your best solutions. 5. Family-Friendly Travel If you are traveling with family or friends, renting a car would be beneficial. You will be able to travel comfortably and safely. The roomy interiors and practicality of kid seats ensure comfort. This will help you modify your schedules and cater to your family's requirements. You will be able to enjoy your travels with ease. Selecting The Ideal Car: How The Nissan Patrol Excels Among various rental cars, the Nissan Patrol seems to stand out as one of the visitor favorites who prefer luxury and ruggedness, both. The car is known for its powerful engine and 4WD system. Moreover, it handles desert roads easily while offering luxury and comfort with its amazing interiors. This is a perfect car for people traveling for business, with families, and who want to travel in style. Its high ground clearance and off-road capability make it ideal for desert trips, while its modern infotainment and comfort features ensure a smooth ride in the city. Things You Need To Rent A Car In The UAE Renting a car in Dubai or other emirates is simple but requires some preparation. The following is what you'll need: A proper driving license: UK licenses are recognized everywhere except a few countries, but it is best to find out if an International Driving Permit (IDP) is also obtained. A passport and a valid UAE entry visa or residence permit. A credit card in the renter's name for the advance deposit. The minimum age is normally 21 years, but some car rental agencies require drivers to be at least 25 years old for premium or large vehicles, such as SUVs. Booking Tips And Rental Process It is recommended that you book a car before you arrive through the online services. This is even more necessary during the peak travel seasons. This will help you get a better price and availability. However, when you are picking up the car, check it for existing damages, and ensure that you note it on the contract. Take a photo for proof. Most rent-a-car companies work on a full-to-full fuel policy. So, you have to return the car with a full tank to avoid any additional charges. Also, check for all mileage limits and driver policies if you are going to share driving duties. Driving On UAE Roads And Tips The UAE boasts excellent road infrastructure with well-maintained highways and neat signage. Speed is strictly enforced using cameras, so always adhere to the limit signs. Dubai and Abu Dhabi are busy in peak periods, but in areas outside city centers, roads are usually smooth and unencumbered. Desert safaris demand a 4WD car like the Nissan Patrol. Weather should always be inquired about, and guided tours arranged if you're not comfortable driving in the desert. Extra Services And Insurance The majority of rental companies offer additional services such as GPS navigation, child seats, and comprehensive insurance packages. It is better to take full insurance so that you don’t have to bear extra costs in case of any damage or accident. Moreover, some companies offer delivery and pickup from hotels and airports, making it a more convenient option. Travel With Ease When you are traveling from London to the UAE, you will experience a blend of city life and natural bliss. Car rental in the UAE, especially a luxurious and appropriate one like the Nissan Patrol, will help you explore the emirate on your own terms. With planned consideration and awareness of local car rental activities, your travel from London's congested roads to the UAE's widespread deserts will be a soothing, exhilarating, and well-deserved experience. Read Also: From Beaches To Mountains: Ideal Routes For Car Travel In Dubai Essential Car Checks Before a Long Journey: Road Trip Ready How To Rent A Car In Tirana Without A Deposit?