Car breakdowns can be stressful, especially on busy highways or in the desert heat. Knowing what to do can keep you safe and ensure you get help quickly. Here’s a clear step-by-step guide for drivers in the UAE.
AI Quick Summary
In the UAE, if your car breaks down, prioritize safety by pulling over, activating hazard lights, and placing a warning triangle. Then, call for roadside assistance using emirate-specific numbers or your insurance provider, providing precise location details. Finally, wait patiently for help, staying inside the car if near traffic and avoiding self-repairs unless it’s a simple fix in a safe location.
This summary was generated by AI using this article’s content.
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What should you do first when your car breaks down?
The first step is safety. Pull over to the right-hand shoulder or emergency lane. Switch on your hazard lights immediately. If you have a warning triangle, place it 45–60 metres behind your vehicle to alert oncoming drivers.
Where is the safest place to stop?
Always stop in a safe spot, ideally on the shoulder or emergency bay. On desert roads, remain inside the car with windows slightly open. In cities, exit carefully from the passenger side if it is unsafe to stay in the vehicle.
Should you check the car yourself?
You can assess the problem only if it’s safe. Common causes include a flat tyre, overheating, or a dead battery. Never attempt complicated repairs on busy roads. Your safety should come before any quick fix.
Who should you call for help?
Each emirate has dedicated services:
- Abu Dhabi: Call the Integrated Transport Centre (ITC) on 800 88888 or use the Darbi app. Free roadside patrols will reach you.
- Dubai: Call Dubai Police on 901 (option 2) or 999 in case of emergency.
- Other Emirates: Call 999 to connect to the local police.
You can also contact your insurance company or private roadside assistance providers for towing, fuel delivery, or jump-starts.
How do you share your location?
Give clear details when requesting help. Mention the road name, direction, nearest exit, kilometre marker, or any visible landmarks. Enabling GPS on your phone will help recovery teams reach you faster.
What should you do while waiting?
Stay calm and stay safe. If near traffic, remain inside the car with your seatbelt on. Use reflective jackets if stepping out. In desert areas, protect yourself from heat, stay hydrated, and avoid draining your phone battery. During the summer, extreme heat can impact both you and your vehicle. Here’s whether cars can really melt in GCC heat and how to prepare.
Should you fix the car yourself or wait?
Unless it’s something simple and safe, like replacing a tyre in a secure spot, leave it to professionals. Roadside recovery teams are trained to handle breakdowns while following proper safety rules.
Do you need to file a police report?
Yes, in some cases. If your breakdown leads to an accident or blocks traffic, a police report may be required. This is also important for insurance claims and repairs at approved workshops. For more details, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to report an accident in the UAE.
How can you prevent breakdowns?
Prevention is always better than cure:
- Service your car every 3–6 months. These 10 car care and maintenance tips can help keep your vehicle in top condition.
- Regularly check fluids, battery, and tyre pressure.
- If you’re considering a reliable vehicle, take a look at these low-maintenance affordable cars in the UAE.
- Keep an emergency kit with water, torch, warning triangle, reflective jacket, power bank, and sunshade. To stay prepared, check out the top 10 things to keep in your car during summer in the UAE.
Are there special tips for different areas?
- Abu Dhabi desert roads: Stay inside your car, keep it shaded, and ration your water supply until help arrives.
- Busy Dubai highways: Exit only from the passenger side if traffic is heavy. Use nearby road signs or landmarks when reporting your location.
What should EV owners do when their car breaks down?
EVs may not face issues like overheating engines, but breakdowns can still happen. Common problems include a drained battery, charging errors, or system faults. Switch on hazard lights, stop safely, and call roadside assistance trained for EV recovery. Heat can also affect EV batteries. Learn how to protect EV batteries during Dubai’s summer heat.
Can you tow an electric car like a normal one?
No. EVs should not be towed with their drive wheels on the ground, as this can damage the motor. They must be transported on a flatbed truck. Always inform roadside assistance that your vehicle is electric.
What if your EV runs out of charge on the road?
If your EV’s battery drains completely, call your insurer or roadside recovery service. Some providers in the UAE offer mobile charging or towing to the nearest charging station. Plan trips carefully to avoid this situation.
Do EVs have different emergency kit needs?
Along with the usual kit, EV drivers should carry:
- Charging cables.
- Portable EV charger (if supported).
- Adapter for public chargers.
This ensures more flexibility if you face charging issues on the road.
How can EV drivers prevent breakdowns?
- Keep the battery charged above 20% to avoid deep discharge.
- Check tyre condition regularly, as EVs are heavier than petrol cars.
- Ensure your software updates are installed, as they improve system stability.
Breaking down in the UAE can feel overwhelming, but staying calm and following the right steps ensures your safety. Prioritise hazard lights, call for help quickly, and wait for professionals. With proper car care and preparation, you can reduce the chances of facing such emergencies.
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FAQs
What should I do if my car breaks down on a UAE highway?
Pull over safely, turn on hazard lights, and place a warning triangle. Call the police or roadside assistance for help. Stay inside if traffic is heavy.
Can I call the police if my car breaks down in Dubai or Abu Dhabi?
Yes. In Dubai, call 901 or 999 for emergencies. In Abu Dhabi, call 800 88888 for free road patrol assistance, or 999 if required.
Is it safe to repair my car by myself on the road?
Not always. Minor fixes like changing a tyre may be possible in safe areas, but it’s best to wait for roadside recovery teams for safety reasons.
What emergency items should I keep in my car in the UAE?
Carry water, a warning triangle, a torch, a reflective jacket, a mobile charger, and a sunshade. These essentials help in both city and desert breakdowns.
How can I prevent my car from breaking down?
Service your car every 3–6 months, check tyres and fluids regularly, and maintain your battery. Preventive care greatly reduces the chance of sudden breakdowns.
Car breakdowns can be stressful, especially on busy highways or in the desert heat. Knowing what to do can keep you safe and ensure you get help quickly. Here’s a clear step-by-step guide for drivers in the UAE. What should
