Parked Car Hit in Dubai and the Driver Left? How to Report It and Who Pays
Came back to a dented car with no note? Here is how to file an 'Unknown Accident' report on the Dubai Police app, what the AED 420 fee covers and when insurance pays.
By Vadim Kouznetsov, published
If someone hits your parked car in Dubai and drives away, you can report it through the Dubai Police app as an accident with an unknown party, for a fee of AED 420. Whether you then pay for the repairs depends mostly on your insurance, according to Gulf News.
It is a frustrating situation: a dent or scratch, no note on the windscreen and no witness. Here is what to do, step by step.
What to do first when your parked car is hit in Dubai
Before you drive off, gather evidence:
- Photograph the damage clearly, along with your car's surroundings.
- Look for witnesses who may have seen what happened.
- Check for CCTV on nearby buildings, shops or car parks that may have recorded the incident.
Then report it to Dubai Police. Accidents with unidentified drivers can be reported through the Dubai Police app or at participating ENOC petrol stations. You can also call the Dubai Police non-emergency number, 901.
How to file an unknown accident report on the Dubai Police app
The app is available on Apple and Android devices. Gulf News sets out these steps:
- Log in to the Dubai Police app with your UAE Pass.
- Choose the service: on the homepage tap 'Submit a Report', then 'Traffic Accidents Report', then 'Start Service', and select 'Accident Report for Unknown Party'.
- Enter your details, including your vehicle plate number, driving licence number and mobile number.
- Upload photos of the damage and of your car, including pictures of all four sides.
- Review and submit, then pay the AED 420 service fee.
Once the application is processed, you receive an accident report you can use to file an insurance claim.
Two points to note. The service only covers accidents that happened in Dubai, and the report is valid for three months, so do not leave your insurance claim too late.
How much a parked car hit-and-run can cost you
The AED 420 report fee may not be your only bill. Depending on your policy and the damage, you could also face:
- Insurance excess: the amount you pay for repairs before your insurer covers the rest of the eligible costs.
- Repair bills: if your policy does not cover damage to your own car, you may pay the full cost.
- Other costs: towing, alternative transport while your car is in the garage, or repairs your policy excludes.
According to Gulf News, fixing a scratch or dent can cost from AED 250 to AED 3,500 or more, depending on the damage, the car model, the parts affected and the repair needed.
Does car insurance cover damage by an unknown driver?
It depends on your type of cover.
Comprehensive insurance generally covers accidental damage to your own car, including damage by an unidentified driver, subject to the policy's terms and exclusions. Repairs are not necessarily free, though: you may still pay the excess, and other conditions or charges can apply.
Third-party liability insurance generally covers damage or injury you cause to other people, not damage to your own car. If the driver who hit you cannot be found, a third-party policy will generally not pay, leaving the repair bill with you.
Read your policy wording before you need it. Our guide UAE Car Insurance and Rain Damage: Are You Actually Covered? explains how to check what your own policy includes, and what to do if a claim is rejected.
Key takeaway
If your parked car is hit by an unknown driver in Dubai, photograph everything, look for witnesses or CCTV, and file an 'Accident Report for Unknown Party' on the Dubai Police app for AED 420. Comprehensive cover generally pays minus your excess, while third-party cover generally leaves you paying.
FAQ
How do I report a hit-and-run on my parked car in Dubai?
Use the Dubai Police app, logging in with UAE Pass, and choose 'Accident Report for Unknown Party' under Traffic Accidents Report. You can also report at participating ENOC petrol stations or call 901.
How much is the Dubai Police unknown accident report fee?
The service fee is AED 420. Insurance excess, repairs or towing may add to your costs.
How long is a Dubai unknown accident report valid?
The report is valid for three months, so submit your insurance claim within that time.
Will third-party insurance pay if someone hits my parked car?
Generally not. Third-party cover is for damage you cause to others, so if the other driver is not identified you will usually pay for your own repairs.
Can I use the app if the accident happened outside Dubai?
No. This Dubai Police app service only covers accidents that happened in Dubai.
Further reading
The UAE week, every Monday
The week's stories on jobs, visas, money and daily life in one short email. Unsubscribe in one click.
