Car Accident in Dubai? Here's Exactly What to Do
May 9, 2025
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Okay, let's be honest – a car accident is stressful anywhere, but navigating one in a bustling city like Dubai can feel particularly overwhelming. Knowing the correct steps isn't just about staying calm; it's crucial for your safety, ensuring you comply with local laws, and sorting out those all-important insurance claims 
[2]
[5]
[6]
[7]. The procedure actually differs depending on whether the accident is minor or major, which is a key thing to remember [2][7]
[9]. Don't worry, this guide will walk you through exactly what to do, step-by-step, based on the official Dubai Police procedures, so you're prepared if the unexpected happens [2][5][7].
Immediate Actions at the Accident Scene (Any Accident)
First things first: stop your vehicle immediately, either right at the scene or as close as possible without causing more danger or blocking traffic, assuming it's safe to do so [2][7]. Take a deep breath and check yourself, your passengers, and the people in the other vehicle(s) for any injuries [2][5][7][9]. Safety is the absolute priority now. Flick on your hazard lights to warn other drivers [5][6][7]. If anyone is seriously hurt, call 999 right away for both police and an ambulance [2][5][6][7]. Critically, unless someone is in immediate danger (like from a fire), do not try to move injured people yourself [2].
Handling a Minor Accident in Dubai (No Injuries)
So, what counts as a "minor" accident? Think slight damage to the vehicles involved, maybe a dent or a scratch, but crucially, absolutely no injuries to anyone [2][7][9]. If the cars are still drivable and are blocking traffic, the first step is to carefully move them to the side of the road or the nearest safe spot [2][6][7][9]. This helps keep traffic flowing and prevents further incidents.
What if you can't use the app for some reason? There are alternatives, like reporting via the Dubai Police website or visiting specific ENOC petrol stations that offer the 'On-The-Go' reporting service [2][9]. However, remember that calling 999 is not for minor, injury-free accidents unless there's a disagreement between drivers or the app reporting fails completely [6]. As a backup, it's always wise to quickly exchange names and phone numbers with the other driver(s) involved [7].
Managing a Major Accident in Dubai (Injuries or Severe Damage)
A major accident is a different situation entirely. This category includes any crash involving any level of injury, significant damage that makes vehicles undrivable, or situations where the vehicles are completely immobilized [2][6][7][9]. The absolute first and most critical step here is to call 999 immediately [2][5][6][7][9]. Clearly tell the operator your precise location, the seriousness of the situation, and whether an ambulance is required [2][5][6][7][9].
Unlike a minor fender-bender, you should not move the vehicles involved in a major accident [2][6][7]. Leave them exactly where they are unless it's absolutely essential for safety or to prevent a complete traffic standstill. Wait for the police to arrive and assess the scene properly [2][6][7]. When the police arrive, be prepared to cooperate fully. You'll need to provide your documents: Emirates ID or Passport, Driving License, vehicle registration card (Mulkia), and your insurance details [5][6][7]. Answer their questions honestly and follow their instructions [5][6][7].
The Police Report: Why It's Non-Negotiable
Whether the accident was minor or major, getting an official police report is absolutely essential in Dubai [2][5][6][7][9]. Honestly, you can't get very far without it. This report is the key document needed for making insurance claims and getting any vehicle repairs done [2][5][6][7][9]. No reputable garage in Dubai will even touch accident damage without seeing that police report first [2].
How you get the report depends on the accident type. For minor accidents reported via the app, the report is usually issued electronically via SMS or email within about 24 hours after submission and approval 
[13][6]
[12]. For major accidents, the police officers attending the scene will investigate and issue a physical paper report right there [6][7]. Keep an eye out for the color-coding on the report; typically, green means you were not at fault, while red or pink indicates you were deemed at fault [7][9]. Remember, even if you hit something inanimate, like a lamppost or barrier, and damage your car, you still need to report it to the police to get that report for repairs [2]. Trying to skip this step can lead to legal trouble down the line [6].
After the Report: Insurance and Repairs
Getting your car fixed also hinges on that report [2]. Garages require it before starting any work [2]. You'll need to follow your insurance company's specific procedures, which usually involve taking your car to one of their approved workshops for assessment and repair [2][6]. Depending on how badly damaged your vehicle is and what your insurance policy covers, you might also need to arrange for a recovery truck to transport it [2][5][6]. Your insurer will guide you through their claims and repair process [2][6].
Special Considerations: Tourists and Rental Cars
If you're visiting Dubai and driving a rental car, the basic accident reporting procedures are the same: use the Dubai Police app for minor incidents if possible, and call 999 immediately for major accidents or any injuries [5][7][9]. However, there's one extra crucial step for tourists. After you've reported the accident to the police and obtained the report, you must contact your car rental company straight away [5].
Let them know what happened and provide them with the police report details [5]. The rental company will then guide you through the next steps regarding insurance claims and vehicle repairs or replacement, according to the terms of your rental agreement [5]. Always make sure you have your essential documents easily accessible when driving, including your passport, home country driving license, and International Driving Permit (IDP) if required by the rental company or your license origin [5].
Key Takeaways and Essential Resources
Navigating a road accident in Dubai boils down to a few key actions: Assess the situation for injuries, report the incident correctly (using the App for minor, 999 for major), obtain the official police report, and then inform your insurance provider [2][5][6][7][9]. For minor scrapes without injuries, really lean on using the Dubai Police App – it's the standard and most efficient method [2][13][5][12].
Keep these essential contacts handy:
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