Modified Car Insurance in UAE: Everything You Need to Know

Whether it’s a performance upgrade, a visual enhancement, or the addition of special accessories, any modification can impact your standard insurance policy. These changes often increase the value or performance of your vehicle. This, in turn, raises the risk for insurers, leading to higher premiums compared to regular insurance. 

Modified cars are usually considered more likely to be involved in accidents or become targets for theft, especially if they include engine upgrades or luxury enhancements. However, while not all insurers provide coverage for modified vehicles, you can still find those that do, albeit with strict guidelines.

Explained: Modified Cars

Car modification is a process of altering the vehicle as per your specific instructions. Most cars offer generalised features that cater to the requirements of the general public rather than a particular individual. However, many people enhance the vehicle features through modification, which can be done to make it appear more aesthetic or improve its performance. 

In the UAE, while there are strict regulations about car modifications, there are some enhancements that you can get done with a permit. 

In general, there are 3 types of vehicle modifications. Let’s understand each type in detail below —

• Aesthetic Modification – These changes modify the car’s appearance. It could be car paint, vinyl or carbon fibre coating, window tinting, or adding a sunroof to the vehicle. 
• Performance Enhancement Modification – This refers to any modifications done to the car that boost its performance. Some common examples of changes under this include brake alterations, installing aftermarket intakes, turbo boosters, and so on. 
• Safety Enhancement Modification – You can also enhance your automobile’s safety with modifications of rear-view cameras, off-road bumpers, anti-theft devices, and car trackers. 

Rules and Penalties Related to Car Modification

Car modification rules in the UAE are strict and clearly outlined under the Federal Traffic Law. Modifying key components like the engine, exhaust system, suspension, or car body without approval is strictly prohibited. Breaking these rules can lead to hefty fines, black points, and may even affect your insurance and vehicle registration. If you’re caught driving a vehicle with illegal modifications, penalties can range from AED 1,000 to AED 50,000, and the vehicle could be impounded. Additionally, your modified car insurance may become void and registration could be cancelled. These regulations are enforced under Ministerial Resolution No. (178) of 2017 listing specific fines and procedures to ensure vehicles remain safe and compliant on the roads. Here is a breakdown of penalties for common car modification violations in Dubai.

Violations	Fine	Black Points	Impoundment
Driving a vehicle that does not adhere to the security and safety measures, or driving a vehicle not fit for driving	AED 500	12	30 Days
Exceeding the permitted percentage of the car’s tinting	AED 1,500	N/A	N/A
Modifying the vehicle’s engine or chassis without permission	AED 1,000	N/A	N/A
Not checking the vehicle after making major adjustments to the engine or car body	AED 400	N/A	N/A
If the changing lane light sign or the rear sign light of the vehicle stops working	AED 400	2	N/A
The rear or side lights of the trailer container are damaged or absent	AED 500	4	N/A
Writing phrases or placing stickers on a car without permission	AED 500	N/A	N/A
Tinting an unpermitted car	AED 1,500	N/A	N/A
Driving around with expired tyres	AED 500	4	7 Days
If the vehicle lights are not working	AED 400	6	N/A
Changing the car’s colour without permission	AED 800	N/A	N/A

Car Modification Approval Process in UAE

To get your car modifications approved, follow these simple steps –

• Visit an ESMA-Approved Workshop – Choose a certified workshop listed by the Emirates Authority for Standardisation and Metrology (ESMA).
• Share Your Modification Plans – Discuss the changes you want to make with the workshop so they can review them.
• Vehicle Inspection – The workshop will examine your automobile and assess the proposed modifications to ensure they meet safety and legal standards.
• Get the Approval Certificate – If changes get approval, the workshop will issue a certificate. You’ll need this when updating your vehicle records with the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).

How Does Car Modification Affect Insurance?

Modifying your car can affect your insurance — it may increase how much you pay for coverage. Most changes, especially performance or aesthetic upgrades, can raise your insurance premium.If your insurer doesn’t cover certain modifications, you might need to buy special or additional insurance designed for modified vehicles.However, not all changes raise costs. Some upgrades, like installing an alarm system, can improve safety and may reduce your premium. Simple, practical add-ons like bike racks or roof racks usually don’t impact your insurance.

To avoid surprises, it is better to inform your insurance provider before making any changes. This way, you’ll know exactly how your modifications can affect your policy and premiums.

If you're buying a new policy, be clear about any existing changes to your vehicle. If you already have insurance and are planning a modification, talk to your insurer beforehand. Failing to disclose changes could lead to your claim being rejected if your car is stolen or damaged.Finally, not all insurers cover modified vehicles. Some may only include specific, approved modifications under their third-party or comprehensive plans. Others might require you to buy extra coverage for certain changes that aren't included in a standard policy. To avoid issues, it’s best to check with your insurer and understand what is and isn’t covered when it comes to car modifications.

Modified Car Insurance in UAE: An Overview

In the UAE, modified car insurance helps cover the value of aftermarket parts added to your vehicle. This type of insurance usually comes with a higher premium than standard motor insurance, but it provides added protection for customised vehicles. 

However, there are specific conditions that must be met, and they can differ between insurers —

• The modifications must be done by authorised car dealers in Dubai or other Emirates. Changes made by third-party workshops might not be accepted.
• All modifications must follow UAE car modification laws and safety guidelines.
• You must have a modification certificate from the Emirates Authority for Standardisation and Metrology (ESMA) to validate your vehicle’s upgrades.

Why Does Modified Car Insurance Cost More?

Modified car insurance is generally more expensive than standard insurance because customised automobiles are perceived as having a higher risk. Modifications can increase the chances of both accidents and theft, which raises the cost of coverage. 

Here's a more detailed explanation —

• Higher Risk of Accidents – Performance upgrades, especially those that increase speed or engine power, can raise the likelihood of being involved in a collision or high-speed accident.
• Higher Risk of Theft – Visual enhancements like custom rims, sound systems, or body kits can make your car more attractive to thieves, increasing the risk of break-ins or theft.

Also Read -  GCC Car Insurance in UAE

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