Don’t Let UAE Floods Drown Your Car Insurance Coverage 2025!

human inrest3 weeks ago

Dubai, UAE – June 2025 — Recent floods across the United Arab Emirates have left thousands of cars stranded, damaged, or even completely wrecked. From submerged vehicles in parking garages to breakdowns on flooded highways, many UAE residents are now facing unexpected car repair costs—and a bigger question: Is my car insurance actually covering flood damage?

If you’re living in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, or anywhere else in the UAE, understanding your car insurance policy is now more important than ever. This guide will help you understand what kind of insurance you need, how to claim flood-related damage, and what mistakes to avoid during the rainy season.

Why UAE Floods Are a Growing Concern

Although the UAE is known for its desert climate, extreme weather events are becoming more common. In April and May 2024, heavy rainfall caused flash floods that disrupted traffic, damaged infrastructure, and left many vehicles waterlogged or unusable. Some insurance companies received thousands of claims in just a few days.

According to the UAE National Center of Meteorology (NCM), climate change is likely to increase the frequency of such events. That means being prepared is no longer optional—it’s essential.

Is Your Car Insurance Covering Flood Damage?

Here’s the key point:
Not all car insurance policies in the UAE cover flood damage.

There are two main types of car insurance in the UAE:

Third-Party Insurance
- This is the minimum legal requirement.
- It only covers damage you cause to other people, cars, or property.
- It does NOT cover your own car’s damage during floods.
Comprehensive Insurance
- This covers damage to both your car and others.
- Flood damage is sometimes included—but not always.

Tip: Always read the fine print. Some comprehensive policies include flood and natural disaster coverage, while others exclude them or offer it as an extra add-on.

Top Car Insurance Tips for UAE Flood Season

1. Check Your Policy Today

Don’t wait for a flood to find out you’re not covered. Review your current insurance plan and look specifically for terms like:

“Acts of God”
“Natural disasters”
“Flood damage”
“Storm coverage”

If you’re unsure, call your insurance provider and ask directly.

2. Upgrade to Full Coverage with Natural Disaster Protection

If your current plan only includes basic protection, consider upgrading to:

Comprehensive insurance
Add-ons for natural calamities, flood, or storm protection

While it may cost more annually, it can save you thousands in repair or replacement costs.

3. Document Everything

If your car is damaged in a flood:

Take clear photos and videos before moving the vehicle.
Show the water level inside and outside the car.
Note the date, time, and location.

This evidence is crucial for speeding up your insurance claim and avoiding rejection.

4. Don’t Start Your Car After a Flood

If your car is submerged:

Do NOT try to start the engine.
Water inside the engine can lead to hydrostatic lock (hydrolock), which causes serious damage.
Call roadside assistance or a recovery service.

Some insurers may reject your claim if they find out further damage occurred because you tried to start the car.

5. File Your Claim Quickly

UAE insurers usually give a limited time to file a claim after an incident—usually 24 to 48 hours.
Here’s what to do:

Report to your insurer immediately.
File a police report if required (especially for severe damages).
Share photos and all documents.

Delays can lead to your claim being rejected or delayed indefinitely.

6. Get Regular Car Maintenance

Preventive care helps reduce damage in floods:

Check your tyres, brakes, and battery before rain season.
Make sure the seals on doors and windows are intact.
Park in higher areas or covered parking lots when flooding is expected.

7. Compare Insurance Plans Before Renewing

Flood coverage varies between insurers. Before you renew your policy:

Use insurance comparison platforms in the UAE like Policybazaar, Yallacompare, or Souqalmal.
Compare prices, coverage, and customer reviews.
Don’t just choose the cheapest policy—choose the most reliable one.

Common Mistakes That Lead to Claim Rejection

Even if you think you’re covered, these mistakes can ruin your claim:

Driving through a flooded road despite warnings
Leaving windows or sunroofs open during rain
Not maintaining your vehicle (like ignoring broken seals)
Delaying the claim process or not informing the police (if required)

Pro Tip: Always read the exclusions section of your insurance policy.

What If My Claim Gets Rejected?

If your claim is denied, you can:

Appeal directly with your insurance company by providing additional documents.
Contact the UAE Insurance Authority or the Central Bank of the UAE, which oversees insurance disputes.
Speak to a legal advisor if the amount is significant and the policy terms were misleading.

Final Thoughts: Stay Informed, Stay Protected

Floods are now a reality in the UAE. While we can’t stop the rain, we can prepare for the worst. Having the right car insurance, knowing your policy inside-out, and acting smart during floods can save you from massive financial stress.

So if you haven’t already, check your policy, update your coverage, and stay alert. Protecting your car is not just about parking safely—it’s about being insured smartly.