Motor Insurance

Ramadan 2026 Car Insurance Renewal Guide: UAE Timing and Tips

Insurance Times UAE

The Holy Month of Ramadan 2026, beginning around February 18, coincides with the UAE's peak Q1 vehicle registration renewal period. With adjusted working hours, increased demand at testing centers, and the critical 13-month insurance requirement, UAE motorists must plan strategically to avoid fines and registration lapses. This comprehensive guide provides a practical roadmap for renewing your car insurance during Ramadan, whether you drive a classic sedan, a new Chinese EV, or manage a commercial fleet.

Understanding the UAE Motor Insurance Renewal Cycle: The 13-Month Rule

The UAE's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) mandates that vehicle insurance coverage must extend 13 months to successfully process a 12-month vehicle registration (Mulkiya) renewal. This seemingly paradoxical requirement exists because the system validates that insurance remains valid throughout the entire registration period, accounting for processing delays and grace periods.

Here's how it works in practice:

• Registration expiry date: March 15, 2026
• Minimum insurance end date: April 15, 2026 (13 months from new start date)
• Actual coverage period: March 15, 2026 – March 14, 2027

Without this buffer month, the RTA's automated system will reject your renewal application, even if your insurance technically covers the 12-month registration period. This technical requirement becomes especially critical during Ramadan when processing times extend due to reduced operational hours.

Understanding comprehensive vs third-party car insurance in UAE options helps you choose the right coverage level before the Ramadan rush begins.

Ramadan 2026 Logistics: Impact on Inspection Centers and Processing Times

Ramadan 2026's overlap with the February-March renewal peak creates specific operational challenges. UAE Labor Law permits private sector entities to reduce working hours by two hours daily during the Holy Month, directly affecting insurance broker back-offices, customer service centers, and underwriting departments.

Key Timing Adjustments for Ramadan 2026:

Vehicle Testing Centers (Tasjeel, Shamil):

• Morning shift: 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM (high demand due to fasting schedules)
• Late-night shift: 8:00 PM – 12:00 AM (extremely high demand post-Iftar)
• Digital appointment booking becomes mandatory to secure slots

Insurance Provider Operations:

• Quote processing: Extended from 2-4 hours to potential 24-48 hours
• Claims departments: Reduced capacity; non-urgent claims may be delayed
• Customer service lines: Limited availability during Iftar hours (6:00 PM – 8:00 PM)

Government Processing Systems:

• RTA mobile app and digital services: Operate 24/7 without interruption
• Central Bank insurance verification systems: Real-time, unaffected by Ramadan

To avoid processing delays entirely, consider using online insurance platforms that allow you to check your car insurance status and renew digitally without visiting physical offices.

Tailored Coverage: Renewing EVs, Chinese Brands, and Classic Cars During the Holy Month

Not all vehicles follow the standard renewal pathway. Three categories require special underwriting attention—and during Ramadan's reduced operational hours, additional lead time becomes critical.

Electric Vehicles (EVs)

The surge in EV adoption across the UAE (Tesla, BYD Atto 3, Nio ES6) introduces unique insurance considerations:

• Battery replacement coverage: Verify your policy explicitly covers lithium-ion battery failure (not standard in all comprehensive plans)
• Charging infrastructure damage: Some insurers now include home wallbox coverage
• Depreciation calculations: EV depreciation rates differ from combustion engines; confirm your agreed value

Ramadan-specific challenge: Underwriters often require manufacturer service records before renewal approval. With dealership service centers operating reduced hours, obtain documentation before Ramadan begins (mid-February 2026).

Chinese Car Brands

The dramatic rise in Chinese vehicle imports (BYD, Geely, Chery, GAC) creates a specialized insurance segment. Understanding insurance options for top Chinese car brands in UAE helps you navigate coverage nuances.

Underwriting considerations during Ramadan:

• Non-agency repair shops: Many Chinese brands lack authorized repair networks; insurers may require additional inspection
• Spare parts availability clauses: Some policies include 90-day parts sourcing guarantees
• GCC vs. Non-GCC specifications: If switching insurers, confirm your vehicle's spec status to avoid mid-Ramadan rejections

Classic and Vintage Vehicles

Cars over 20 years old or with classic/collectible status require physical appraisals before comprehensive coverage approval:

• Physical inspection waiver: Not available during Ramadan; plan for in-person assessments
• Agreed value policies: Appraisal appointments at specialized centers may require 1-2 weeks advance booking

Processing timeline: Add 5-7 business days to standard renewal periods for classic car underwriting during Ramadan.

The Step-by-Step Digital Renewal Checklist for UAE Residents

The most efficient path through Ramadan renewal chaos is fully digital processing. Here's your action sequence:

30 Days Before Expiry (Mid-February for March renewals):

1. Verify current coverage details: Check your existing policy end date and coverage type
2. Gather digital documents: Emirates ID (both sides), current registration card, driving license scan
3. Request no-claims certificate (NCC): If switching providers, obtain NCC from current insurer
4. Pre-book vehicle inspection: Use RTA app or testing center apps (Tasjeel, Shamil) to secure a slot

14 Days Before Expiry:

5. Compare insurance quotes online: Utilize digital comparison platforms to evaluate top comprehensive car insurance providers in the UAE for 2026
6. Select and purchase policy: Ensure policy start date provides the required 13-month coverage
7. Download digital insurance certificate: Immediately save to your smartphone and email

7 Days Before Expiry (During Ramadan):

8. Complete vehicle inspection: Attend pre-booked appointment (preferably morning shift to avoid post-Iftar crowds)
9. Synchronize with RTA: Testing center automatically uploads inspection results; verify via RTA app
10. Process Mulkiya renewal: Use RTA kiosks, app, or digital service centers for instant registration renewal

On or After Expiry Date:

11. Print new registration certificate: Download digital Mulkiya from RTA app or collect from kiosk
12. Activate roadside assistance: Many insurers provide app-based activation for Ramadan emergency support

Conclusion

Bottom line: Renewing car insurance during Ramadan 2026 requires strategic timing, digital-first processing, and awareness of the critical 13-month coverage rule. With testing centers operating split shifts, underwriting departments on reduced hours, and peak renewal season coinciding with the Holy Month, early preparation is non-negotiable. Whether you drive an EV, a Chinese brand, or a classic car, initiating your renewal process 30 days in advance ensures you avoid fines, system rejections, and the Eid holiday processing backlog.

Editorial note: This article is for general information and does not constitute insurance advice. Always confirm terms with your insurer.