Request Value Estimate of Accident Damage in Dubai

A value estimate is a professional assessment of how much it will cost to fix your vehicle's damage from an accident. It includes checking parts like the body, engine, and electronics. In the UAE, if the repair cost is more than 50% of your car's value before the accident, the insurance company may declare it a "total loss." You'll get paid the car's market value instead of repairs.

This estimate is usually done by authorized garages or insurance surveyors. It's required for claims under UAE insurance laws.

Why Do You Need It

• Insurance Claims: Without an estimate, your claim might be delayed or rejected.
• Repair Decisions: Helps decide if fixing the car is worth it.
• Legal Reasons: Needed for police reports and any disputes.
• Selling the Car: If damaged, an official estimate shows the true value.

Step-by-Step Guide to Request a Value Estimate

Here's how to do it, based on the latest procedures from Dubai Police and RTA.

1. Ensure Safety and Report the Accident: Move to a safe spot if possible. Call Dubai Police at 999 for emergencies or use the Dubai Police app for minor accidents (no injuries). Report within 24 hours.
2. Get the Police Report: This is mandatory. For minor accidents, it's free via the app. For major ones, it costs around AED 500. The report includes details like who is at fault.
3. Notify Your Insurance Company: Call them right away. Provide the police report number. They may send a surveyor if the damages exceed AED 12,000.
4. Take Your Vehicle to an Authorized Garage: Choose an RTA-approved garage for the assessment. They inspect the car and give a detailed estimate.
5. Submit for Approval: Share the estimate with your insurance. If it's a total loss (repairs >50% of value), they'll handle the payout.
6. Pay and Repair: Once approved, the garage fixes the car, or you get compensated.

Step-by-Step Process with Time Estimates

Costs Involved in Getting the Estimate

The estimate itself is often free if done through your insurance-approved garage. However, related costs include:

• Police report: AED 0-500.
• Towing: AED 200-500 if needed.
• Garage inspection: AED 100-300 if not covered by insurance.
• Repairs: Varies, but insurance covers based on your policy (third-party or comprehensive).

Insurance policies must cover at least AED 2 million for bodily injuries, per UAE laws. Check your policy for deductibles (usually AED 500-1,000).

If damages are to public property (like roads), you may need a separate estimate from the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MoEI).

Where to Get the Estimate: Authorized Garages in Dubai

Choose RTA-approved garages for reliable service. They use advanced tools for accurate assessments.

These are popular based on 2025 reviews. Always check if they're linked to your insurer for coverage.

Tips for a Smooth Process

• Document everything: Photos, witness info, and receipts.
• Choose comprehensive insurance for better coverage.
• Avoid driving a damaged car; it could fail RTA tests.
• Use apps like Dubai Police or RTA for faster service.
• If disputing the estimate, get a second opinion from another garage.

FAQs

What documents do I need for a damage estimate?

You need the police report, vehicle registration, driving license, Emirates ID, and insurance policy. Photos of the damage help too.

How long does it take to get the estimate?

Usually 1-2 days at the garage, but full claim processing can take 1-2 weeks.

What if my car is a total loss?

If repairs cost more than 50% of the car's value, insurance pays you the market value (minus any deductibles). Use tools like those from Shory Insurance to estimate your car's worth.

Is the estimate free?

Often yes, if through insurance. Otherwise, expect AED 100-300.

Can I request an estimate without insurance?

Yes, but you'll pay out-of-pocket. Visit any authorized garage.

Where can I check my car's accident history?

Use the Emirates Vehicle Gate (EVG) website or MOI app; it's free for most vehicles.