Navigating Rental Car Insurance for Expo 2020 Dubai Visitors in the UAE

The World Expo 2020 Dubai has been on the horizon for a very long time now. The UAE is banking on a surge in visitors and trade for the Expo. It is not surprising since it has been marketed as the up and coming event for the past decade. Proper measures have been taken to meet the demands of those visiting the Expo 2020 Dubai; for example, new and luxurious hotels, open roads to travel to and from the pavilions, and different means of transport. The UAE anticipates a rise in demand for rental cars and vehicles. But what about rental car insurance in the UAE? This is your comprehensive guide on what to expect, and how to go about buying rental car insurance in the UAE.

Types of Rental Car Insurance

More often than not you will find that car rental agencies provide a modicum of insurance within the rental agreement. This is mandatory by UAE car insurance law. However, it is prudent to take a look at the car insurance policy before you take the keys. This is so you are aware of what to expect in case you need to make a claim. You can also add to the current insurance if it doesn’t provide coverage for what you consider important. All of this is to give you peace of mind while you attend the World Expo 2020 Dubai. There are several types of optional rental car insurance in the UAE:

Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) – A ‘waiver’ that protects you in case of a collision or accidental damage to the rental car. This is an optional service but one that is highly recommended. This does not cover damage done to another car.

Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) – It is essentially CDW but with Theft Protection. In case your rental car is stolen, LDW ensures a car replacement is available. Just like CDW, it does not cover damages done to another vehicle.

Supplementary Liability Insurance – It covers for any third-party injuries caused by you during a collision. This includes damage to the other vehicle as well, up to a certain amount.

Personal Accident Insurance – Provides coverage for any medical expenses for personal injuries to either the driver or passenger of the rental car. This includes emergency ambulance services, medical costs, and even accidental death cover.

Personal Effects Cover – This provides cover for the theft of any personal items from within the rental car.

How to Recognise a Good Rental Insurance Policy

As a rule of thumb, you should look at any agreement before signing up. To make your World Expo 2020 Dubai experience as magical and worry-free as possible try to get the maximum coverage. As mentioned before insurance is mandatory and is provided within the rental agreement but you should read through it to make sure it has the following:

1. Damage cover for windows, windscreen, body, engine, mirrors, tires, etc. These are not always included and can rack up a great expense if damaged. To ensure your time at the World Expo 2020 Dubai isn’t spent fretting about accidental damage of your rental vehicle, make sure this is covered in your insurance.
2. Personal Accident Cover in case you need medical assistance after a collision. This does not include any medical expenses of other vehicles and their occupants.
3. Roadside assistance in case of breakdown etc. This includes car rescue.
4. Cover of legal expenses that might occur during your use of the rental car.
5. Cover for any damage or loss of your personal effects while using the rental car.

If a rental quote includes these in the insurance then it is a sound deal to make. If not, then you can choose between the optional insurance available to patch up what is being offered, or compare some more before settling on one.

Steps to Take Before You Get Rental Insurance

Before you sign up for a rental car during the World Expo 2020 Dubai take a look at the vehicle. Take photographs of any existing scratches or dents, and ask for them to be included in the current description of the car so you aren’t charged for any existing damage.

Another thing to be aware of is that some rental car companies can charge you for diminished value to the vehicle. They can also charge for roadside assistance, and administrative fees to go along with the claim. If you choose your policy to cover these charges beforehand you can save a lot of money, and not be hoodwinked into accepting unnecessary charges.

The World Expo 2020 Dubai is going to be a wonder of technological marvels for a sustainable future. The world will be attending the event of the year. With such an influx of tourists and visitors, it is best to ensure that your participation is nothing short of a trip of a lifetime.

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