For most drivers in the Emirates, buying car insurance is a yearly ritual of ticking boxes and finding the lowest price. Whether you are renewing your registration or buying a new vehicle, the focus is often on the bottom line. However, in the rush to get the cheapest deal, many drivers overlook the fine print—and in doing so, miss out on valuable “hidden” perks that can save thousands of Dirhams when things go wrong.
Modern insurance policies in the UAE have evolved significantly. Insurers now compete on service features rather than just price, meaning your standard policy might be packed with benefits you didn’t even know existed.
Here are the hidden gems you should look for before signing your next policy.
1. Off-road and desert coverage
Living in the UAE often means weekend trips to the desert. However, many standard policies strictly cover “paved roads only.” If you get stuck in the dunes or damage your suspension while off-roading, a basic policy might leave you stranded. A hidden benefit in many comprehensive plans for SUVs is the “Off-Road Extension.” This specifically covers damages incurred while driving in the desert. If you are an adventure seeker, ensure this isn’t just an expensive add-on but a built-in feature of your policy.
2. Agency repairs for older cars
The “Agency Repair” clause—guaranteeing repairs at the official dealer—typically expires after your car is two or three years old. After that, insurers switch you to “Non-Agency” (garage) repairs. What many don’t know is that you can often negotiate to extend Agency Repairs for up to five years. While this might slightly increase your premium, it ensures your car retains its resale value by having a full dealer service history—a crucial factor for buyers in the UAE market.
3. Personal accident and passenger cover
While third-party car insurance in UAE is mandatory and covers damage you cause to others, it surprisingly does not automatically cover you or your passengers. A valuable “hidden” benefit to look for is the Personal Accident benefit. This provides a lump sum payout (often up to AED 200,000) to the driver and passengers in the event of a severe injury or death. For a nominal fee, this turns a basic legal requirement into a life-saving financial safety net for your family.
4. GCC coverage and roadside assistance
Planning a road trip to Oman or Saudi Arabia? Your standard UAE policy stops at the border. However, many premium insurers now include “GCC Coverage” as a free or low-cost perk, protecting you across the border without needing to buy a separate temporary policy. Additionally, look for enhanced roadside assistance. Beyond just towing, top-tier plans include battery jump-starts, flat tyre changes, and even fuel delivery if you run dry on Sheikh Zayed Road—often available 24/7.
Why booking online matters?
The best way to spot these benefits is to take control of the process. When you buy online car insurance in UAE, you can often toggle these “hidden” options on and off to see exactly how they affect your premium. It gives you the transparency to build a policy that fits your lifestyle, rather than accepting a generic package.
Unlock the best deals with Colemont
Finding these hidden benefits requires knowing where to look, and that is where Colemont excels. As a leading insurance provider in the UAE, we don’t just compare prices; we compare protections.
At Colemont, we dig into the fine print for you. We understand that a policy is only as good as its ability to pay out when you need it. Whether you need an off-road extension for your Jeep or agency repairs for your sedan, our team negotiates with top insurers to get you those “hidden” extras without the hidden costs.
Don’t settle for the bare minimum.
Drive with total confidence. Contact Colemont today for a free policy review and let us find you a car insurance plan that works as hard as you do.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does my car insurance automatically cover off-road or desert driving?
No, standard comprehensive policies usually cover paved roads only. You must specifically check for an “Off-Road Extension” in your policy to ensure you are covered for damages incurred while dune bashing or driving in the desert.
Can I keep “agency repairs” if my car is more than three years old?
Yes, while most insurers default to “Non-Agency” (garage) repairs after 2 or 3 years, you can often negotiate to extend Agency Repair coverage for up to 5 years by paying a slightly higher premium, preserving your car’s dealer service history.
Is “personal accident” coverage included in third-party liability policies?
Not automatically. Third-party insurance covers others, but it does not cover the driver’s injuries. You typically need to add “Personal Accident Benefit” as an optional rider to receive a lump sum pay-out for injuries or death involving the driver and passengers.
Does my UAE car insurance cover me if I drive to Oman?
It depends on the policy. Many premium policies include “GCC Coverage” (often excluding your own car’s damage unless specified) or an “Oman Extension” as a free or low-cost benefit. Always check your policy certificate before crossing the border to avoid buying temporary insurance at the checkpoint.
Will my insurance pay for a rental car while mine is being repaired?
This is often a “hidden” optional benefit known as “Loss of Use” or “Car Hire Benefit.” If included, the insurer will provide a cash allowance or a replacement vehicle for a set number of days while your car is in the workshop following a covered accident.