Buying a car in Dubai

[Kansaag]

Hi, I am new to Dubai.
Any recommendations to dealerships or pit falls I need to know about when buying a car? Is good second hand car recommendable or should I rather look at a new one? I am single lady, don't need something big and bold, just reliable and a well known brand.

[Ogri750]

Before you can buy a car, you'll need your UAE driving licence and for that you'll need your reseidence visa. After that it is fairly straight forward.

Try sites like Dubizzle and Gulf News motoring sections.

My wife's suggestion is for you to get a 4x4 as the driving standards here leave a lot to be desired

[Kansaag]

Thanks for info. I have been driving a 4 x 4 in my home country for the last 3years. It was great fun to park on the pavement without worrying about the tyres & rims! Had my fare share! I would like to buy a car that can easily be maintained, without worrying or waiting for spare parts - should anything goes wrong - keep in mind I am on my own - no hubby that will advise . Any recommendations?

[Maz25]

Originally Posted by Kansaag

Thanks for info. I have been driving a 4 x 4 in my home country for the last 3years. It was great fun to park on the pavement without worrying about the tyres & rims! Had my fare share! I would like to buy a car that can easily be maintained, without worrying or waiting for spare parts - should anything goes wrong - keep in mind I am on my own - no hubby that will advise . Any recommendations?

I drive a Ford in the Uk and find their cars to be very reliable! However, being a woman, I do not know the first thing about cars and really couldn't say whether it would be a suitable car for the UAE.

[marc]

I think you cant go wrong with a VW Tourag or the Range Rover. sport(HSE) or vogue.

But Japanese hold their value much more then any other make.

[Lenochka]

I would stay clear off Range Rovers as I know several people in Dubai who had nothing but trouble with them. One friend had his RR in the garage every other week for about 4 months and more than 20'000 AED spent on it to repair this and that and this and that and that and this.....finally the air condition blew...and he got rid off the car...

[marc]

forget that option then!!!

[Kansaag]

Thanks! Will go for VW!

[Shinjuku]

Hope this doesn't sound too preachy, but are 4x4s really necessary in the Emirates?
I can understand that the larger cars can feel like it gives a better sense of safety and security, not to mention that petrol cost is negligible. So it can be quite tempting to get a 4x4, since most everyone else is also driving one.

But at a time of record global petrol prices, why not drive smaller cars where possible? (unless most expats are really into off-road driving)

[Kansaag]

One tends to feel safer in a 4x4 on the High ways!