Borrowing a car in the UAE is not a common practice and requires some measures to keep both the lenders and borrowers out of legal trouble. With penalties like expensive fines, issuance of black points, impounding of the vehicle or even termination of licence are some of the reasons to be careful when lending or borrowing a car.
Even if you are borrowing from a close friend or family member, there are certain rules to keep in mind. Most of these rules aren’t even officially regulated; they are just common courtesy and precautionary measures. Let’s take a look at the rules for borrowing a car in the UAE.
Rules & Guidelines for Borrowing a Car in the UAE
Let’s have a look at some general concerns related to borrowing a car. Whether you in the UAE or some other country, these are some guidelines that should always be kept in mind:
Valid Driver Licence
This is a no brainer – anyone borrowing your car should carry a valid UAE driving licence. Driving a vehicle without a licence can lead to traffic fines of up to AED 5000 in addition to a 3-month jail sentence.
This does not mean tourists or visitors cannot drive a car in the UAE. Apart from international licences, residents of certain countries and regions are allowed to drive on their homeland licence provided they go through the process of transferring their international licence to a UAE licence.
Permission to Borrow
Normally, the case does not apply when someone shares a car with a family member. However, it’s always ethical to take permission. If the borrowing party is a friend in the UAE, without permission you can run into some legal troubles.
Local Rules and Regulation
The UAE thrives on its strict traffic laws and regulations. Apart from licence requirements, you should be aware of driving rules in the UAE. The real owner can be fined for certain violations like parking without a ticket in the absence of the driver.
Insurance Validity
If someone other than the owner crashes the car, insurance companies can deny car insurance claims. This might require some clarification from the insurance company itself before lending or borrowing a car.
As each company has their own set of rules, consult with the insurance company if the coverage applies to drivers other than the owner. A written agreement would work in favour of the borrower in time of need.
Important Documents
Before driving a borrowed car, inquire the owner about the essential documents. Ensure where car registration and insurance papers are kept as driving without documents lead to unnecessary fines. You should also check for other safety equipment like car fire extinguishers and caution (triangle) signs.
Refilling the Tank
Everyone has a preference as even fuel is available in different types. Mechanically, running out of fuel damage cars significantly. Ethically, when you return a borrowed car, instead of an empty gas tank, fill it up with the right type of fuel as a courtesy.
Eating or Smoking in the Car
Borrowing doesn’t mean you own the car. Eating or spilling inside a car can leave stains you wouldn’t be proud of. Smoking while your windows are closed can leave a lingering smell for days. Out of the respect of the owner, avoid making a mess as next time the owner won’t be so keen on lending the vehicle again.
Maintenance and Service
If you are borrowing a car for a long period, keep tabs on ultimate car maintenance checklist. Some owners prefer authentic service centres while others don’t mind a workshop next door. Ensure you have contact information of the relevant service centre or workshop so you can’t be blamed for post-repair issues.
Precautions when lending your car
Where borrowing a car is all about courtesy, it is the responsibility of the borrower to return the car in the same condition. Nonetheless, lenders should at least ensure the driving capabilities of the borrower.
Driving History of Borrower
Lending a car to someone with a bad driving record is something to reconsider. You wouldn’t want your car returned with bumps and dents. If your car is in pristine condition, avoid lending it.
It’s usually noticeable when a car has multiple drivers as its condition deteriorates faster and it might require more frequent maintenance as opposed to a single user. You may also check your car history in the UAE to inspect the car’s damage.
Some treat other people’s cars like their own while some may take a harsh road. When borrowing or sharing a car in the UAE, the above checklist will help you stay on good terms with the owner. If you are borrowing a car because your own car needs frequent repairs or you don’t yet own a car. Explore used cars for sale in the UAE for some affordable options.
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