Did you know that driving without car insurance in Dubai can lead to a penalty of AED 500 and four black points? But before you buy car insurance in the UAE, you need a car insurance checklist. Whether you’re a new driver, an expat, a long-term resident, or a tourist in Dubai, understanding how to buy car insurance is essential if you want to drive in UAE, so don’t miss this car insurance buying guide.
In this car insurance buying guide from Lookinsure mag, we’ll provide checklist for car insurance that includes everything you need to know about how to get car insurance for UAE vehicles and non-UAE vehicles in Dubai. From the first steps, when to buy, and to the best places to purchase your policy, we’ve got you covered.
10-Step Car Insurance Checklist: Guide to Buy Car Insurance in UAE
If you want to get a simplified version of how to buy car insurance in UAE, this 10-step car insurance checklist contains all the essentials:
| Priority | Key Action | Critical Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Policy Type | Choose Comprehensive over Third-Party | Mandatory: Third-party (covers others). Recommended: Comprehensive (includes fire, theft, self-damage). |
| 2. GCC & Border Coverage | Verify GCC validity + buy third-party at borders | UAE policy ≠ legal in GCC countries. Budget ~AED 90 for 5-day third-party at borders. |
| 3. Compulsory Excess | Negotiate deductible based on car value | Higher excess = lower premiums. E.g., AED 200 (Nissan Sunny) vs. AED 300 (Honda Accord). |
| 4. Agency Repairs | Opt for manufacturer workshops (if car ≤5 years old) | Post-5 years, premiums rise. Confirm if your insurer partners with dealerships (e.g., Al Futtaim). |
| 5. No-Claim Bonus (NCB) | Leverage up to 40% discount | Submit foreign NCB certificates (for expats). Renew early to retain discounts. |
| 6. Off-Road & Exclusions | Add off-road cover for 4WDs (excludes dunes) | Limited to 4WDs (Land Cruiser/Prado). AED 1,500 excess. Confirm exclusions clearly. |
| 7. Driver & Vehicle Age | Check eligibility rules | Insurers may reject cars >10 years old. Drivers under 25 pay higher premiums. |
| 8. Optional Add-Ons | Prioritize roadside assistance + personal accident cover | Roadside: GCC-wide towing/fuel. Accident cover: AED 200k (driver) + AED 15/passenger. |
| 9. Claims Process | Confirm 24/7 support + documentation needs | Save insurer’s emergency number. Photos/police reports required for claims. |
| 10. Compare Digitally | Use platforms like Lookinsure | Avoid kiosks! Compare quotes, read reviews, and buy paperless policies in minutes. |
In-Depth Checklist for Car Insurance : Buying Comprehensive vs Third Party Insurance
Lookinsure is all about making the best of your time and money; so, here’s a short car insurance checklist (TLDR or Too Long, Didn’t Read) of all the points on car insurance buying guide.
1: Assess Your Coverage Needs
Evaluate your car’s worth and your driving habits to determine the appropriate level of coverage.
2: Compare Offerings
Our platform allows you to easily compare car insurance quotes from multiple insurance providers side-by-side.
3: Read Customer Reviews
Make use of our integrated review system to gauge the reliability and customer satisfaction of each insurance company.
4: Examine Coverage Options
Look beyond the basic policy to ensure all potential risks are covered. Consider valuable add-ons that might be crucial for your situation.
5: Understand the Claims Process
Choose an insurance provider with a good reputation for efficient and hassle-free claims handling. We provide clear information on each company’s claims process to help you make an informed decision.
When to Use the Checklist for Car Insurance in UAE
If you want to buy car insurance in UAE, timing is everything. Many vehicle owners make the mistake of leaving this important decision to the last minute, often resorting to purchasing insurance at kiosks next to Vehicle Inspection Centers. We have prepared the best checklist for car insurance buying guide to cover the basic pros and cons of the available methods. Of course, who wouldn’t like to know how to get cheap car insurance. Check out our guide for the most practical tips. It’s essential to compare different car insurance policies and know how to choose car insurance that offers sufficient protection and suitable price.
If you’re exploring different car insurance options, you may be wondering what does comprehensive insurance actually cover. This type of policy provides broader protection, including coverage for theft, fire, and accidental damage, giving you greater peace of mind on the road.
| Approach | Pros | Cons |
| Purchasing at Kiosks | Convenience: Quick and easy process. Immediate coverage: You can get insured on the spot. | Limited negotiation: Little room to negotiate terms, potentially leading to higher premiums. Coverage risk: as a last-ditch effort, you do not have time to go over all coverage options |
| Approaching Insurers | Customization: Directly contact insurers for personalized quotes. Potential savings: Negotiate terms and find better deals. | Time-consuming: Requires providing detailed information and comparing multiple quotes. Overwhelming: Dealing with multiple companies can be a hassle. |
| Online Comparison Sites | Efficiency: Streamlined process. Input information once, and receive multiple quotes. Cost-effectiveness: Saves time and money by comparing offers. Dedicated assistance: A personalized touch on how to get comprehensive car insurance | Lack of personal touch: May not provide personalized advice. No room for personal negotiation: If you approach a provider directly, you may get a better deal. |
Checklist for Car Insurance: Where Can I Buy Car Insurance in UAE?
We are one of the online insurance providers in UAE which helps you to discover a suitable plan for your car from different providers in just 2 minutes! Learn more about NCD in car insurance
Remember, the goal isn’t just to tick a box for legal compliance. It’s finding out how to get full coverage insurance that protects you financially in case of an accident. So, don’t wait until the last minute.
Start your car insurance journey early, learn how to buy insurance in UAE, compare car insurance options thoroughly, and drive with peace of mind knowing you’ve made the best choice for your needs and budget. If you have an online platform in mind, see how well they manage on the checklist for car insurance platform below. Also consider checking the comprehensive vs third party insurance to get a detail of their differences in all processes.
| Benefit | Lookinsure | Conventional Methods |
| Fast and Easy | With car insurance buying guide obtain insurance in less than two minutes. | Time-consuming: Requires comparing multiple quotes. |
| Policy Issuance | Immediate policy issuance with zero wait time. | May involve paperwork and manual processes. |
| Pricing | Exclusive pricing, and discount for payment with Tabby. | The prices are set in stone. |
| Communication Control | No spam calls; you’re in control. | You may receive unexpected calls or texts to upgrade your plan, |
| Process Convenience | 100% online process. | May need to visit the office in person to finalize the purchase, or over a phone call. |
| Insurer Options | Top insurance companies in the UAE. | Most are limited to specific providers. |
| Payment Flexibility | Secure payment options with installment facilities. | Premium payments are required. |
| Environmental Impact | Paperless process. | Some companies issue extensive paperwork. |
| Claims Assistance | Digital claim assistance. | May not cover all legal costs. |
Car Insurance Checklist: Buy Car Insurance in UAE Using Lookinsure
Here’s how to buy car insurance online Dubai with our user-friendly platform that helps find the perfect policy for your needs.
1: Access Our Website
Go to Lookinsure car insurance page on your preferred device. Our customized cross-platform design ensures a smooth experience across all devices. You can click on the help button to receive instructions on WhatsApp for how to get car insurance.
2: Enter Your Vehicle Details
Input your vehicle’s plate number in the provided form. Need help remembering your plate number? No worries! We offer alternative methods to identify your vehicle, such as searching by brand and model. Just to make sure, check out to see what documents are required for car insurance and then proceed with confidence.
3: Provide Personal Information
Enter your 16-digit Emirates ID or UAE Pass for quick verification. Answer a few questions about your driving license. Input and verify your phone number for secure communication.
4. Compare Quotes
You can select your preferred coverage options, go through our car insurance checklist for add-ons too ensure maximize coverage, and get real-time quotes from multiple providers.
5. Finalize Payment
You can choose various payment methods including Buy Now, Pay Later services like Car Insurance Tabby and Tamara to buy car insurance in UAE.
Checklist for Car Insurance: Tourists in the UAE
As a tourist planning to explore the UAE and access the highways and open roads, getting full auto insurance coverage is a must. So you cannot delay the responsibility to buy car insurance in UAE if you wish to drive in Dubai or other Emirates. Here is a car insurance checklist foreign travelers.
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| 1. Legal Requirements | Valid international driving license + passport with UAE entry stamp. |
| 2. Insurance Type | Third-Party Liability (mandatory) or Comprehensive (recommended for rentals/private cars). |
| 3. Documentation | Passport copy, visa, vehicle registration (Mulkiya), rental agreement (if applicable). |
| 4. Rental Car Specifics | Verify rental agency’s included insurance (CDW, theft protection) and excess fees. |
| 5. Purchase Steps | Use platforms like Lookinsure for short-term policies. |
| 6. Coverage Add-Ons | Add roadside assistance, cross-border coverage (if driving to Oman/Saudi), or personal accident cover. |
| 7. Validity Period | Ensure policy matches your stay dates (e.g., 7-day, 30-day plans). |
| 8. Claims Process | Save insurer’s emergency hotline; document accidents with photos/police report. |
| 9. Emergency Contacts | Keep insurer’s contact, rental agency number, and UAE police (999) handy. |
| 10. Avoid Pitfalls | ❌ Driving uninsured. ❌ Ignoring fine print (exclusions, excess fees). ❌ Using unapproved providers. |
Car Insurance Checklist: New Drivers Licensed in the UAE
Congratulations on obtaining your UAE driver’s license! Here’s how to buy car insurance in UAE as a first-time driver:
- Immediate Action: As a new driver, arrange insurance coverage before you start driving on the road. Whether you’re borrowing a family car or purchasing your own, ensure you’re covered from day one.
- Life Changes: Life events like marriage or moving to a new state can impact your insurance needs. Contact your insurer whenever significant changes occur. Adjust your coverage accordingly to stay adequately protected.
- Learn the Basics: Understand the different types of car insurance in UAE—third-party liability, comprehensive, and more. Don’t hesitate to ask questions; informed decisions lead to better protection.
Checklist for Car Insurance: New Car Buyers in the UAE
If you’re purchasing a shiny new car in the UAE, consider these key points as a simple car insurance checklist:
- Pre-Purchase Planning: Car insurance should be part of the purchase process. Arrange coverage before driving your new vehicle home. Dealerships and private sellers will require proof of insurance.
- Grace Periods: Some insurers offer grace periods for adding a new car to an existing policy. However, it’s best to secure full coverage in advance to avoid gaps. Protect your investment from day one.
Things might be a bit different for buying insurance for a used car; so make sure your information is fully updated. As a new owner, it is also better to wrap your head around the complications of 1st time car insurance and make sure you go for the best quote out there. If you still haven’t purchased a car or want to buy another, get fully informed on getting car insurance before buying car to find a good deal.
Later on you might need some information on how to cancel your car insurance; so why not learn everything about it now and rest assured.
Car Insurance Checklist: Simplify Your UAE Coverage in 10 Steps
Our checklist for car insurance distills years of industry insights into actionable steps, ensuring you avoid common pitfalls like undervalued coverage, overlooked add-ons, or non-compliance with UAE regulations. Whether you’re a new driver or a seasoned expat, prioritizing thorough research, comparing quotes, and understanding policy terms will empower you to secure optimal protection tailored to your needs. The UAE’s competitive insurance market offers endless options, but with this roadmap, you’re equipped to make informed, cost-effective choices.
Frequently Answered Questions
1: Do you need a driving license to purchase car insurance in the UAE?
Yes, per UAE laws, you must provide a valid driving license, residential visa, and passport to purchase car insurance in the country.
2: What documents are required to buy insurance for a used car in Dubai?
To insure a used car in Dubai, you should have a valid Emirates ID, driver’s license, Mulkiya (vehicle registration card), and the documents regarding the previous insurance coverage.
3: Is it safe to purchase car insurance online?
It is quite safe to buy online car insurance from trusted sources. Make sure to check the provider is regulated by the Government of Dubai and the Central Bank of the UAE.
4: How can I check a car insurance policy online?
You can check the details on the Lookinsure website. Once you input your details and register, the system automatically checks for insurance history online.
5: As a tourist, what documents do I need for buying car insurance?
When purchasing car insurance policies in the UAE, you need a UAE ID as a UAE national, a passport and residence visa as a foreign traveler, a valid UAE driver’s license (or valid international one), the Vehicle Registration Certificate (Mulkiya), your bank statements, and confirmation letter for GCC-specified cars.
6: Is Insuring Electric Cars Different from Regular Cars?
Third-party liability insurance is mandatory for electric cars as well. Several insurance providers have introduced specific plans for electric cars, which are identical to petrol-powered vehicles.
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