What Happened When My Car Broke Down Yesterday

Heya Bubs. How are you feeling today?

I'm here again to share my story with my beautiful audience. (Hearts for y'all).

Yesterday started like any other weekday in Dubai. I left my apartment in Al Barsha with a coffee in one hand and my bag in the other, ready to catch the last bit of the morning breeze before the heat took over.

The plan was simple: stop by a client’s office in Business Bay, grab a quick karak on the way back, and clear emails before lunch. I wasn’t even five minutes into Sheikh Zayed Road when I felt a weird vibration through the steering wheel. The dashboard flashed a warning I hadn’t seen before, and a slight panic settled in the pit of my stomach.

I turned down the music and tried to keep my breathing steady. The car started slowing down even though my foot was firmly on the pedal, and within seconds, I was inching my way to the shoulder, hazard lights blinking as cars sped past.

For a minute, I just sat there, gripping the steering wheel while the AC started losing its cool. It’s a strange moment, realizing your day just took a sharp left turn, and all you can do is wait.

I called Car Garage Expert, hoping they wouldn’t take too long. The sun was already high, and I could feel the heat pressing against the windows. I watched people drive by, a few glancing over, while others were too busy with their mornings to notice. The city doesn’t slow down for anyone.

About twenty minutes later, a technician arrived with a warm “Salaam” and a reassuring smile. He checked the car while explaining that it appeared to be a battery issue, something that could be fixed on the spot. He worked efficiently, asking me about my day and reminding me to keep an eye on any unusual signs in the future.

It was a small conversation, but it made all the difference.

A Different Kind of Morning

By the time I was back on the road, the traffic had cleared somewhat, and I managed to grab a karak before heading to the client meeting. The day didn’t go as planned, but it didn’t fall apart either.

Sometimes, you’re forced to slow down in a city that never does, and that pause—unwanted as it may be—gives you a moment to reset.

Yesterday was one of those days. And honestly, I’m grateful for it.

If You Drive in Dubai

If you’re like me and drive around Dubai every day, don’t wait for your car to remind you it needs care. Having a plan and knowing who to call can turn a frustrating breakdown into just another small story from your week.

Because sometimes, it’s not about avoiding problems, but knowing how to handle them when they arise, especially on a sweltering morning in Dubai.

Let’s Talk, Bub Club!

So tell me—am I the only one out here collecting these little car chaos moments like Pokémon cards? Or do y’all have stories too? I swear every car I’ve ever owned has had a personality. My last one used to squeak only when I was picking someone up on a first date. Rude, right?

I’m thinking I should start naming my cars. Like actual names with backstories. This one’s giving “Noura”—she’s a little dramatic when ignored but always gets me where I need to be, eventually. 🙃

Also, if you’ve ever tried to explain a car issue to a mechanic without sounding like you’re narrating a ghost story—please teach me your ways. I still find myself saying things like, “It’s making this…thunka-thunka sound when I turn left but only if I’m going over a bump and I’m slightly hungry.” Very diagnostic, I know.

Anyway, lemme know in the comments if you want more of these little slices of my Dubai driving life. I’ve got plenty—from getting lost in Satwa trying to find a hidden shawarma joint, to singing way too confidently with the windows down at red lights (someone definitely recorded me once, I just know it).

Drive safe, stay hydrated, and if your car talks to you—listen. Even if it’s just to say, “Girl, I need a break too.”

With love, laughs, and maybe a jumper cable in my trunk just in case,

Sara.