Insurance Guide

What affects car insurance premiums in the UAE

By Dubai Motor Insure editorial team · Published 5 March 2026 · Last updated 31 August 2026 · 6 min read

Vehicle factors

  • Current market value — the single largest driver of a comprehensive premium.
  • Make, model and repair cost — parts availability and workshop rates matter.
  • Age of the vehicle, which can also determine whether comprehensive cover is offered at all.
  • Body type and engine size, which influence both repair cost and claims frequency.
  • Modifications, which may need to be declared and can affect eligibility.

Driver factors

Home-country driving history is sometimes recognised if you can document it, which is worth raising if you have recently moved to the UAE.

  • Age and driving experience.
  • How long you have held a UAE licence.
  • Claims history — claim-free years typically attract a discount, evidenced by a no-claim certificate.

Policy choices you control

Because insurers weight all of these differently, comparing several quotations for the same specification is the most reliable way to see the real market range for your vehicle.

  • Comprehensive versus third party liability.
  • The excess you accept on own-damage claims — a higher excess usually lowers the premium.
  • Agency versus non-agency repair.
  • Optional extensions such as GCC/Oman cover, off-road cover or a replacement vehicle.

Important: The information on this page is general guidance about motor insurance in the UAE and is not a policy document or a guarantee of cover. Cover, benefits, exclusions, excess amounts and pricing differ between insurers and depend on your vehicle, driver profile and the policy wording issued to you. Always read the policy schedule and terms issued by the insurer before purchasing.

Request a car insurance quotation

Share your vehicle and contact details and a licensed advisor will get back to you with the options available for your car.