Comprehensive insurance is the policy most UAE drivers pick for a car they would struggle to replace out of pocket. Here is what it pays for, where policies differ and how to compare quotes properly.
01What comprehensive cover pays for
A comprehensive policy includes everything a third-party policy does: damage you cause to other vehicles and property, and injury to other people. On top of that it pays to repair your own car after an accident, and usually covers fire and theft too.
- Accident damage to your car, even when the accident was your fault.
- Fire, theft and attempted theft.
- Damage from natural events such as storms and floods, on many policies.
- Windscreen and glass damage, often with a separate excess.
02How to compare two quotes
Two comprehensive quotes can look alike and still pay out very differently. Before you choose, check:
- Repair type: agency repair at the dealer, or garage repair at a workshop the insurer approves.
- Insured value: the amount the insurer pays if the car is written off. It should match the car’s market value.
- Excess: what you pay towards each claim, and whether it is higher for young or new drivers.
- Add-ons: roadside assistance, a rental car, personal accident cover and Oman cover may be included or cost extra.
03Who should choose it
Comprehensive cover makes most sense for newer cars, financed cars (lenders normally require it) and any car whose repair bill you couldn’t comfortably pay yourself. For an older car of low value, third-party cover can be the better deal; the right answer depends on what the car is worth and what the premium costs.