When renting a car in the UAE, understanding car insurance policies is essential to avoid unexpected costs. Rental cars come with basic insurance, but you may need additional coverage depending on your needs. Knowing the types of insurance, coverage limits, and exclusions can help you make an informed decision.
✔️ Mandatory and included in all rentals.
✔️ Covers damage to other vehicles, property, or people in case of an accident.
✔️ Does not cover damage to the rental car itself.
✔️ If you are at fault in an accident, you may have to pay for the rental car repairs.
💡 Who needs this?
✔️ Optional insurance that limits your liability in case of an accident.
✔️ Covers damages to the rental car caused by a collision.
✔️ You will only be responsible for paying the insurance excess fee instead of full repair costs.
✔️ Does not cover reckless driving, off-road damage, or unauthorized drivers.
💡 Who needs this?
✔️ Covers third-party liability and damages to the rental car.
✔️ Includes fire, theft, and accident-related damages.
✔️ Reduces your financial responsibility in case of any damage.
✔️ Usually comes with an excess amount that you will need to pay if you make a claim.
💡 Who needs this?
✔️ Covers medical expenses for the driver and passengers in case of an accident.
✔️ Provides compensation in case of disability or death.
💡 Who needs this?
✔️ Mandatory for desert and off-road driving.
✔️ Covers accidents and vehicle damage while driving in off-road areas.
✔️ Not included in standard rental insurance policies.
💡 Who needs this?
The cost of rental car insurance depends on the type of coverage and rental company.
Insurance TypeEstimated Cost Per DayBasic Third-Party Insurance (Included)AED 0 (included in rental price)Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)AED 15 - 50 per dayFull Comprehensive InsuranceAED 30 - 100 per dayPersonal Accident Insurance (PAI)AED 10 - 30 per dayOff-Road InsuranceAED 50 - 200 per day💡 Tip: Some credit cards offer free rental car insurance when you pay with them. Check your credit card benefits before purchasing additional coverage.
🚫 Damage caused by reckless or drunk driving.
🚫 Driving outside the UAE (cross-border travel to Oman requires special approval).
🚫 Lost keys or damage to the interior of the car.
🚫 Damage from off-road driving (unless you have off-road insurance).
🚫 Traffic fines or Salik toll charges.
💡 Tip: Always check the insurance policy exclusions to avoid unexpected expenses.
✔️ Stop the car immediately and ensure everyone is safe.
✔️ Call 999 for police assistance and obtain a police report – this is required for insurance claims.
✔️ Contact the rental company and inform them of the accident.
✔️ Do not move the car unless instructed by the police.
💡 Tip: Without a valid police report, your insurance claim may be rejected, and you could be responsible for all damages.
🚗 If you are renting a car in the UAE, make sure you understand your insurance coverage to avoid extra costs.
✔️ Basic third-party insurance is included in all rentals.
✔️ CDW or comprehensive insurance is highly recommended to protect against car damage.
✔️ If you plan to drive in the desert, get off-road insurance.
✔️ Always check what is excluded in your rental insurance policy.
By choosing the right insurance package, you can enjoy a worry-free driving experience in the UAE!
🚘 Planning to rent a car? Get the right insurance and drive safely! 🚘