Buying a car in Dubai
Buying a car in Dubai doesn’t have to be as difficult as it sounds. If you are interested in buying a car in Dubai or buying a car abroad and importing it into Dubai, there are some basic things to consider. The good thing about car shopping in Dubai is that its list prices compared to other regions are much cheaper, but you will also need to think about not only the actual purchase, but also insurance and registration, among other things.
The first thing to know about buying a car in Dubai is that you must have a residence visa for the country. If you don’t, you won’t be able to buy a car there. As long as you have that little bit of paperwork, you’re good to go. All you need to do is decide whether you want to buy a new car or a used one. Remember, new cars are cheap, but used cars are even cheaper!
Many people choose to buy used cars in Dubai simply because they are so affordable. Used cars are usually just as good as new ones, as the turnover rate of expats in Dubai is very fast. People are always coming and going and often sell their cars for great bargains. If it’s a used car you’re after, be sure to check out bulletin boards, online forums, newspapers, colleagues, and even used car dealers.
There are many dealerships that specialize in new and used cars. An excellent source of used cars in Dubai is up for auction. Buying a used car from an auction or dealer in Dubai is usually your best option as all cars have undergone vehicle checks and tests.
If you need financing for a car purchase in Dubai, it is possible through most new and used car dealers, as well as local banks. The basic principle is very similar to the same process in the United States. However, make sure you know that there are some differences. Many lenders will require that checks be cashed with a due date on each due date of your loan instead of monthly payments. When obtaining financing through the dealer, it is important to note that the loan will come through the dealer’s preferred bank. If you choose your own bank, you may get a better rate and terms for your car loan.
Obtaining insurance is absolutely essential in Dubai. There is no shortage of car insurance options in Dubai and your dealership can also help you find an insurer. However, unlike the US, be sure to pay close attention to who is covered in your policy. Very often, handcuffs are not included in insurance coverage. Also keep an eye out for “blood money,” which is money paid to the victim or the victim’s family in the event of death or serious injury caused by a collision.
Once you have purchased the car and insured it, you will need to register it. All cars in Dubai must be registered. If you buy a car from a dealer, the dealer will help you register the vehicle. However, if you buy the car from a private party, the responsibility lies with you. Remember, if your car is more than two years old, it must be tested before it can be registered. You can take it to a testing center or hire a service to do it for you.
As long as you know all the basics about buying a car in Dubai, you should be fine. Just remember, it’s always wise to go into car buying as an informed consumer, so do your research before signing on the dotted line. Also, if you plan to import a car into the country, there are other steps you’ll need to take, so shopping locally might be your best option.