Job Discussion Forums

redgoo · Joined: 22 Jun 2006 Posts: 11

I know this thread has come up from time to time but I'm reposting to take advantage of any updated information. I'm looking to buy a new or used car and Dubai, I'm told, offers better deals with regard to available models, prices, options, everything. Can someone tell me where the reputable dealers are located in Dubai? Are certain areas of Dubai better than others for car searching? Looking for Japanese (Nissan Sunny, Tiida, or Toyota Yaris). From this thread it's obvious I don't live in Dubai.

veiledsentiments · Joined: 20 Feb 2003 Posts: 17644 Location: USA

I will post my standard advice... in the Gulf, never buy a used car from a lot. Chances are that no matter what the mileage, it will have arrived on the lot with the original oil that came from the factory. (no kidding!!)

Only buy used cars from individuals you know...

If you buy a new car from a dealership in Dubai, you will get no free service. When I bought with a local dealer in the Gulf, part of the deal was that it was free service for the first X number of years. I'm a good bargainer.. and never paid a penny for service in 13+ years (Sunnys or Tercels) and was always provided with a free loaner car.

VS

Afra · Joined: 02 Feb 2003 Posts: 389

There are reputable companies you can buy used cars from who will give you a guarantee and a service deal but don't rush into anything. 4X4 and Off Road Motors offers deals on cars with limited mileage, usually under 100,000k. You can also try reputable garages like AAA in Rashidiya and Al Qoz.

helenl · Joined: 04 Jan 2006 Posts: 1202

car dealers for the different manufacturers are all owned by the same company (as a rule). For example: Al Futtaim owns all Toyota dealerships, Gargash owns all Mercedes etc. That being said, I'm sure the level of service varies from dealer to dealer just because of the human variable in the equation.

Buying a used car from one of the large dealers is probably not too risky an option - be aware if you are borrowing to buy that the banks generally offer a flat rate only (you pay interest on the full amount of the loan for the full tenure of the loan - i.e. you finance AED60,000 of your purchase price you pay interest on AED60,000 for the 3/4/5/6 year term of the loan) There are loans available on a declining balance, but they increase the interest rate on those - they get you coming and going.

Another caveat, there were a lot of cars that were damaged in Oman during the cyclone last June and they may be finding their way to lots/dealers in UAE - another reason to buy from someone you know.