Heavy Rains in UAE? Here’s How to Keep Your Car Safe from Damage

With unstable weather expected to stick around until Friday, UAE motorists are being urged to stay alert—and more importantly, protect their cars.

Rain-related incidents tend to spike during this time, and a few wrong moves (like starting a flooded car) can lead to serious damage. Here’s a quick, no-fuss guide to keeping your vehicle safe.

First things first: check for water damage

If your car has been exposed to heavy rain or flooding, don’t ignore it.

Start by checking if water has entered the vehicle. Look at the floor, seats, and under the mats. If water has seeped into the cabin, remove it immediately using towels or a wet vacuum.

Then, open the doors and windows to let everything dry out. This helps prevent mold, bad smells, and long-term interior damage.

Don’t start your car just yet

This is where most people go wrong.

If there’s even a small chance that water got into the engine or transmission, do not start the car. Turning it on too soon can cause major mechanical damage.

Instead, check:

• Engine oil

• Coolant

• Air filters

If anything looks off, it’s best to get a professional to inspect it first.

Watch out for electrical damage

Modern cars rely heavily on electronics, and water can mess with all of it.

Make sure to have these checked if your car was exposed:

• Battery

• Wiring

• Lights

• Electronic control systems

Experts recommend getting a qualified technician involved to avoid bigger issues later.

Avoid flooded roads and park smart

If you’re heading out during heavy rain, play it safe.

• Avoid driving through flooded roads

• Park in elevated or covered areas if possible

• Make sure drainage around your parking space is clear

• Use a waterproof cover if your car is parked outside

A little planning can save you from costly repairs.

If your car was badly flooded, act fast

For vehicles exposed to significant flooding, insurance becomes crucial.

Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible to report the damage and start your claim.

Need a damage certificate? Here’s how

If your car was affected, you’ll likely need an official vehicle damage certificate for insurance.

• Dubai: Apply via Dubai Police website under “Certificate Services” (TWIMC Certificate). Upload photos, pay fees, and track via SMS/email. Processing usually takes 1–2 working days.

• Abu Dhabi: File an unknown accident report through the Saaed app or website

• Sharjah: Apply through Sharjah Police website or app with uploaded photos

Getting this sorted early helps avoid delays in compensation.