Car rental insurance in Dubai: deductible and coverage
Renting a car in Dubai is a common practice that allows you to freely explore this dynamic city. However, to ensure your trip is stress‑free, it is extremely important to thoroughly understand the insurance terms. The key aspects to pay attention to are the deductible, the scope of coverage, and possible exclusions.
Franchise vs. Deposit: what’s the difference?
There’s often confusion between a franchise and a deposit.
– A franchise is the maximum amount you’re willing to pay in the event of an insured incident. It’s directly related to the coverage and reduces the insurance company’s liability.
– A deposit, in turn, is the amount blocked on your card when you receive the car. It serves as a guarantee that the car will be returned in proper condition and can be used to cover minor damages, fines, or unpaid services. Upon completion of the rental period, provided there are no claims, the deposit will be refunded.
Risk assessment: what to pay attention to in the policy?
When reviewing an insurance policy, pay special attention to the following points:
– Type of coverage: Make sure the policy includes coverage for damage to the rented vehicle itself (Collision Damage Waiver – CDW) and liability to third parties (Third-Party Liability).
– Deductible amount: Clearly determine the deductible amount. Consider whether you are prepared for such a risk, or whether it is worth considering options with a reduced deductible for an additional fee.
– Exclusions: Read the list of exclusions carefully. Typical exceptions include damage to tires, rims, windshields, and the vehicle’s undercarriage, as well as cases of driving under the influence or participating in racing.
Coverage table: main options
| Service | Standard coverage (CDW + TPL) | Extended coverage (reduced deductible) | Full coverage (no deductible) |
| Damage to the vehicle | With a deductible | With a minimum deductible | No deductible |
| Damage to third parties | Covered | Covered | Covered |
| Theft | With a deductible | With a minimum deductible | No deductible |
| Glasses, tires, rims | Excluded | May be included for an additional fee | May be included for an additional fee |
Key questions before renting:
1. What is the exact amount of the deductible?
2. Are tires, rims, and glass included in the coverage?
3. What is the amount of the deposit, and how will it be blocked?
4. What exclusions are provided for in my policy?
5. Is it possible to purchase additional insurance to reduce or eliminate the deductible?
Other useful blog articles:
Frequently Asked Questions
For non-residents:
International driving license
Local driving license of the country of origin
Passport
For UAE residents:
Passport
Emirates ID
Local driving license
RENT AND PAYMENT
Rent
Cars can be rented both on a daily basis and comprehensively, for a week, two weeks, a month, or more.
Payment
Payment can be made in cash, VISA, MasterCard, Russian cards or cryptocurrency.
Deposit will be refunded within 25 days.
Insurance
Delivery
Full coverage.
Free in Dubai.
DRIVER CONDITIONS
Docs
Driving experience
1+ years
Age
Passport and driver's license are required. International driver's licenses are also required for non-residents.
from 21+ years (depending on the car)
