Third Party Car Insurance in the UAE: What to Know Before You Buy
If you're driving in the UAE, valid car insurance isn't just a good thing—it's mandatory.

The bare minimum and cheapest form of cover is third party car insurance, which is an insurance that covers damage to other individuals but not to your vehicle. For the majority of Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and other emirates residents, third party insurance is the default and cost-effective solution, especially for older models or low-budget motorists.
In this article, we will walk you through everything you need to know prior to buying third party car insurance in the UAE. From what it does and how much it costs to how to buy insurance online, this blog will help you make a smart, well-informed choice.
What Is Third Party Car Insurance?
Third party vehicle insurance is the UAE's minimum requirement of vehicle insurance. It covers your financial liability in the event that you are involved in a collision wherein you cause damage to another person's property or vehicle and/or cause harm or kill another person. It does not cover damages to your own vehicle and your injuries.
This type of policy is generally the cheapest type of car insurance in the UAE and would be suitable for the following drivers:
Have an older or more modest car
Occasionally drive
Wish to insure themselves only to fit into the law and do not require the added protection
You should note that with third party insurance, costs for repairing your own car or medical expenses for you or your passengers will not be covered.
Is Third Party Insurance Mandatory in the UAE?
Yes, third party vehicle insurance is mandatory in the UAE. You cannot register or renew a vehicle without at least this cover.
Institutions like the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and Abu Dhabi Department of Transport (DoT) mandate that proof of insurance coverage be produced at registration. Although drivers may purchase comprehensive coverage for wider coverage, third party insurance serves to meet the legal obligation.
The regulation is applicable in all emirates, including Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, and Umm Al Quwain.
Third Party vs Full Car Insurance in the UAE
Whether to choose third party or comprehensive insurance is based on your requirements, budget, and car value. Here's a brief overview:
Third Party Insurance:
Pays for damage to other people's cars and property
Pays for injury or death to other people
Won't pay for your vehicle or injuries
Lower rates
Minimum compulsory coverage as per law
Comprehensive Insurance:
Pays for third party obligations in addition to damage to your own car
Comes with theft, fire, vandalism, and natural disasters
Often includes add-ons like roadside assistance
Costlier but broader coverage
If you are driving a newer car or want additional peace of mind in the case of theft or serious crashes, comprehensive is likely the better option. For older vehicles or low-risk drivers, UAE third party insurance still makes good sense and saves money.
How to Get Third Party Insurance Online in the UAE
Buying third party car insurance online is fast, simple, and convenient. Here's how:
Visit a reliable insurance comparison portal such as Shory
Enter your car and personal details: vehicle make, model, year, Emirates ID, driving history, and registration.
Compare quotes from multiple insurers based on policy terms, liability limits, and add-on covers.
Choose your policy by price and coverage.
Pay online through a secure payment gateway.
Get your policy immediately by email or download from the dashboard.
No forms, no visits to an insurance branch, and no waiting for callback. Shory, in fact, allows you to get quotes in seconds and make your policy complete within minutes.
Third Party Car Insurance Premiums in Dubai and Abu Dhabi
The cost of third party car insurance in the UAE is based on several factors, including:
- Car make and model
- Driver age and license history
- Registration Emirate
- Claims history
- Average cost:
Dubai third party motor insurance ranges between AED 600 and AED 900
Abu Dhabi may range from AED 500 to AED 850
Rough estimates, and the insurers vary in price. Abu Dhabi may be a bit lower, but Dubai's competitive market may bring in bundled services or digital discounts.
For accurate pricing, it is recommended that one compare insurance online via sites such as Shory, in which numerous insurer quotes are offered in real-time.
What to Look for in a Third Party Insurance Policy
When buying, it is vital that you look for the following elements in a third party policy:
1. Liability Limit
Check the maximum amount the insurer will pay in case of property damage or injury. Some insurers offer higher liability coverage than the legal minimum.
2. Passenger Cover
Some third party policies include limited coverage for passengers injured in an accident. Confirm whether this is included or can be added.
3. Policy Inclusions and Exclusions
Understand what the policy does not cover—such as own damage, natural disasters, or off-road usage. Be sure of the insurer's conditions and definitions.
4. Claims Process
Choose insurers that are known for hassle-free and timely claims settlement. Online reviews and platform ratings will help you judge the quality of service.
5. Roadside Assistance
Some third party policies will have restricted breakdown cover. If not available, check if it can be included as an inexpensive add-on.
6. Insurer's Reputation
Use a reputed provider with a large presence in the UAE. Look for top-rated ones with 24/7 customer service and clear documentation.
Top Websitee to Compare and Buy Third Party Insurance Online
You can get the best deals by utilizing top-rated UAE-based insurance websites. Here are some:
Shory: Offers instant quotes and facilitates full policy purchase online in under 3 minutes. Specializes in third party and comprehensive insurance for all vehicle types.
Buying insurance online keeps you away from aggressive agents and offers you complete price and conditions transparency.
Conclusion
Third party motor insurance in the UAE is not just a legal requirement—it's also a cost-effective way of staying legally in line and financially protected in case of crashes with other individuals. Drive you may in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or indeed anywhere in the emirates—having the right third party policy makes you feel more at ease on the road.
Although it does not cover your own car, it's ideal for economical motorists, owners of older vehicles, or whoever needs to pay for the bare minimum. Thanks to websites such as Shory, buying insurance online couldn't be easier—compare quotes, read policy terms, and get insured within minutes.
Be sure to read over your needs thoroughly and find a reputable provider to receive the best value. For most drivers, third party insurance is sufficient—but only if you're sure of what you're receiving.
About the Creator
Sarath Menon
Hi I am Sarath Menon working in Shory one of the leading insurtech company in the UAE, covering insurance latest trend especially in the middle east regions. Covering al type of insurance including Car insurance, Health, Pet and home

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