If you never arrive and didn't cancel, the booking lapses as a no-show: prepaid amounts are usually forfeited and a no-show fee can apply, while pay-at-pickup rates simply aren't charged in most cases but the car is released. If you're running late, contact the desk or our support — desks typically hold cars for a grace period, longer if you've added your flight number.
What a no-show costs
- Prepaid rates: the amount paid is usually forfeited, and a no-show fee can apply on top.
- Pay-at-pickup rates: in most cases nothing is charged — but the car is released and your reservation is gone.
Running late? The grace period is your friend
Desks don't release cars the minute you're overdue — there's typically a grace period first. It's much longer if the desk knows why you're late: add your flight number to the booking and an airport desk can see the delay and hold the car accordingly. If a serious delay is unfolding, call the desk on the number in your voucher or message our support.
Plans changed? Cancel instead
A no-show is the most expensive way to not rent a car. Cancelling before the deadline is free on most rates — open the booking on the Manage booking page at dubairentals.com/manage with your reference and booking email, and cancel there, even from the departure lounge. Car rentals cannot be cancelled from My Trips. Changes work the same way: amend the booking there rather than letting it lapse.
The habit that avoids all of this
Add your flight number at booking, keep the voucher handy, and tell someone — desk or support — the moment plans wobble. More on deadlines and fees in car rental help.