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Rent a Car at Allama Iqbal International Airport (LHE)

Convenient Rental Car Pick-Up at Allama Iqbal Airport

Renting a car at Allama Iqbal International Airport (LHE) gives you instant mobility once you land in Lahore, one of Pakistan’s busiest international gateways. As soon as you clear immigration and collect your luggage, you will find several car rental desks located inside the main arrivals concourse.

After completing your paperwork at the desk, an agent will direct you to the designated vehicle pickup area in the airport parking lot just outside the terminal.

Final Rentals allows you to book your airport car hire in advance, ensuring your chosen car is ready when you arrive and eliminating the stress of arranging transport on the spot.

Proximity to Key Destinations from LHE

Lahore City Centre: ~15–20 km (30–45 minutes via Airport Road).
Defense Housing Authority (DHA): ~18–25 km (35–50 minutes).
Gulberg / MM Alam Road: ~15–23 km (35–45 minutes).
Badshahi Mosque / Old City: ~17–22 km (40–50 minutes).
Faisalabad: ~180–190 km (3–3.5 hours via M3 Motorway).

About Allama Iqbal International Airport (LHE)

Airport Code: IATA: LHE | ICAO: OPLA

Allama Iqbal International Airport is the third-largest civilian airport in Pakistan and serves Lahore and the surrounding Punjab region with domestic and international flights. It is operated by the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority and features modern passenger facilities to support both leisure and business travel.

Facilities & Services

  • Car rental desks inside the arrivals hall with agents ready to assist.

  • Free Wi-Fi in public areas.

  • Currency exchange and ATMs for Pakistani rupee access.

  • Food and beverage outlets near arrival zones.

  • Information counters to help with directions and queries.

  • Secure parking near the terminal for car collection and return.

These facilities ensure you can complete paperwork and make a smooth transition from air travel to road travel.

Car Hire at Allama Iqbal International Airport

When you exit the customs zone and enter the public arrivals area, you will see the rental counters clustered together. 

When returning the car, follow the terminal parking. Park as indicated, hand over the keys, and complete the return check with the agent.

Transportation Between the Airport and Local Areas

Driving: Having a car is the most flexible way to travel in and around Lahore. You can visit business districts, cultural sites, beaches, and regional highways without depending on public transit or waiting for rides.

Public Transport: Buses operate from the airport area, but they follow fixed routes and schedules, which may not match your travel times comfortably.

Taxi / Ride-Share: Ride-hailing services like Yango and InDrive are available outside the airport and are easy alternatives for quick trips, though they can be costly during peak hours or major events.

Car Rentals: Renting a car gives you complete autonomy — ideal for business travellers, families, and explorers wanting to control their itinerary and stops.

Other Features & Travel Tips

Driving Orientation: In Pakistan, vehicles drive on the left side of the road.

Speed Limits:

  • City areas: 50–60 km/h

  • Expressways and Motorways: 80–100 km/h

Seatbelts are mandatory, and mobile phone use is limited to hands-free for safety.

Road Conditions: Main roads in Lahore and highways around the city are generally paved and well-marked, though traffic congestion during peak hours is common.

Parking:
Paid parking areas are available near commercial hubs and landmarks. Airport and city parking usually have attendants and clear pricing.

Fuel Costs: Petrol and diesel prices are moderate. Refuel before long drives outside urban zones.

Peak Seasons: Lahore sees high travel volume during holidays like Eid and the winter months. Early booking of rental cars helps secure better deals and vehicle availability.

Contact Information

Address: Allama Iqbal International Airport, Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan
Official Airport Info: https://www.lahoreairport.com.pk/

How to Book Your Rental Car at Allama Iqbal International Airport (LHE)

Step 1: Visit Final Rentals online or use the mobile app. Select “Allama Iqbal International Airport (LHE)” as your pick-up point.

Step 2: Choose the vehicle that suits your trip:

  • Economy/Compact: Best for city navigation and fuel savings

  • Sedans: Comfortable for business or family journeys

  • SUVs: Ideal for long trips and luggage space

  • Vans/7-Seaters: Great for group travel

  • Premium/Luxury cars: Suitable for executive or special occasions

Step 3: Provide a valid credit card and complete the reservation to receive immediate confirmation.

Step 4: Review the rental terms, including driver age requirements, insurance options, fuel policy, mileage limits, and any toll charges.

Step 5: On arrival, locate the car rental counters inside the arrivals hall, present your documents, inspect the vehicle, and begin your trip. For returns, follow the rental return signs to the parking area, hand in the keys, and complete the final check.

FAQs About Allama Iqbal Airport Car Rentals

What documents do foreign tourists need to rent a car at Allama Iqbal Airport?

Foreigners must present a passport, a valid visa, a home driver’s license, and an International Driving Permit (IDP). Some agencies also ask for a hotel address. The IDP is legally required in Pakistan—even with a Western license. While not always checked at pickup, police enforce it on highways. Carry originals to avoid fines.

Can Pakistani citizens rent a car using only a CNIC at Allama Iqbal Airport?

Local renters need a valid Pakistani driver’s license and a Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC). No passport is required. Some companies may ask for a utility bill as proof of address. 

What’s the minimum age to rent a car from Allama Iqbal Airport?

You must be at least 23 years old. Many providers require 25+ for SUVs or premium models. Drivers under 25 may face higher deposits or be denied self-drive access. Most also ask for 2+ years of driving experience.

How much does a car rental cost per day at LHE Airport?

With a driver, economy cars (e.g., Suzuki Alto) cost $30/day. SUVs like Fortuner range from $55 to $85/day with a chauffeur. Fuel, tolls, and parking are extra. Prices rise during Eid or wedding season. Always confirm inclusions to avoid surprises.

Is an International Driving Permit required at Allama Iqbal Airport?

Foreigners must carry an IDP along with their home license to drive legally in Pakistan. Traffic police routinely check on routes like the Lahore–Islamabad Motorway. Without it, your insurance may be void, and you could face penalties. It’s valid for one year and easy to get before travel—essential for hassle-free car use.

What fuel policy applies to rentals picked up at LHE?

“Return full” is standard—you get the car with a full tank and must refill before drop-off. Petrol costs about $0.95 per liter. If you return it low, you’ll pay double without a receipt. Stations are plentiful near the airport and on motorways. Always keep your fuel slip—it’s proof when returning your rental car at the airport.

Are automatic cars available at Allama Iqbal International Airport?

Automatics are rare and mostly limited to high-end SUVs like Toyota Fortuner. Most fleets use manual gearboxes for cost and fuel efficiency. If you need automatic, expect higher daily rates and limited choices. Book well in advance—same-day requests often fail. This is a real constraint for visitors renting at Allama Iqbal International Airport.

Can I drive my rental from LHE to other Pakistani cities?

You can drive to Islamabad, Karachi, or Multan, but inform the provider first. Some companies restrict travel to certain provinces (e.g., Balochistan) without approval. Highways like M-2 are safe and well-maintained. Unauthorized trips may void insurance. Always get written route confirmation when planning intercity travel from the Airport.

Are tolls required on roads from Allama Iqbal Airport?

Motorways like M-2 (Lahore–Islamabad) and M-3 (Lahore–Faisalabad) have electronic toll plazas. Fees range from $0.50–$2 per segment, payable in cash (PKR) or card. Some rentals include a toll pass; others don’t. Unpaid tolls lead to fines deducted from your deposit. Budget a small change for smooth driving from Allama Iqbal International Airport.

Is parking easy in Lahore with a rental car?

Downtown parking is tight and often paid. Use mall lots (e.g., Emporium, Packages) or hotel garages—they’re safer. Street parking is chaotic; avoid double-parking. In Gulberg or DHA, private compounds offer secure spots. Never leave valuables visible.

What insurance coverage is included with LHE rentals?

Basic third-party insurance is mandatory but offers minimal protection. Most renters remain liable for damage or theft, with deductibles. Chauffeur-driven cars often have better terms. Self-drive policies are stricter. Never assume full coverage—always ask for written details before accepting a vehicle from Allama Iqbal International Airport.

Can I use a debit card to rent a car at LHE?

Most providers require a credit card for the deposit due to pre-authorization needs. Debit cards often lack sufficient hold capacity and may cause rental denial—even if you pay the daily fee with cash. International cards sometimes face issues—notify your bank before travel.

Are child seats provided with rentals from LHE Airport?

Generally, no. Child seats are not standard, rarely available on request, and not enforced by law. Safety-conscious families should bring their own. If traveling with young kids, don’t count on rental providers supplying boosters.

What if my flight is delayed—will my rental be held?

Not automatically. Allama Iqbal Airport has limited staff—long delays (over 60–90 minutes) may lead to reassignment. Always share your flight number. If running late, contact the desk. As our agent will guide you at the airport to pick up the rental car, they can often hold it with a quick message—just stay in touch.

Is GPS or navigation included with rental cars?

Most cars don’t have built-in GPS. Use Google Maps or with a local SIM (available at arrivals). Mobile data works well in Punjab. Offline maps help you find landmarks like the Badshahi Mosque or motorway exits.

What driving rules should foreigners know in Lahore?

Drive on the left (like the UK). Speed limits: 40–50 km/h in the city, 120 km/h on motorways. Zero alcohol tolerance. Seat belts are mandatory for front seats. Police conduct random checks—carry a license, IDP, and rental papers.

What type of car is best to rent in Lahore?

For city driving, a compact sedan (e.g., Alto) is fuel-efficient and easy to park. For family or intercity trips, an SUV like Fortuner offers comfort and space. Manual is cheaper, but automatic suits non-local drivers. Choose based on your route, luggage, and comfort needs.

How far ahead should I book a rental at Allama Iqbal Airport?

Book 3–7 days in advance, especially during holidays (Eid, weddings) or summer. Last-minute rentals risk higher costs or no availability, particularly for SUVs.