In the UAE, a brand-new car can typically have up to 100 km on the odometer when delivered, which is considered perfectly acceptable. New vehicles often undergo road testing at the factory, pre-delivery inspections (PDI) at the dealership, and short transfers. The RTA Dubai's vehicle registration process for new cars accounts for these initial kilometers. A more critical metric for UAE buyers is the monthly average after purchase. Considering common commutes like Dubai-Sharjah or Dubai-Abu Dhabi highway drives, a new car driven 1,500 to 2,500 km in its first full month is within the normal range for an average user. High mileage isn't inherently bad if the vehicle is properly maintained, but it immediately impacts depreciation. For example, a Toyota Camry 2025 GCC-spec with an initial showroom price of 95,000 AED can lose approximately 15-20% of its value in the first year, with mileage being a key factor. Fleet managers in the UAE calculate the total cost of ownership (TCO), where fuel (using Special 95 or Super 98), servicing, and this steep initial depreciation are the main costs.
- Acceptable delivery mileage: Up to 100 km
- Normal first-month range: 1,500 - 2,500 km
- Key first-year depreciation: 15-20%
- Main cost factors: Fuel, servicing, depreciation
Data on vehicle registration norms is based on RTA Dubai practices, and depreciation trends align with market analysis from major UAE used-car platforms and dealerships as of 2024.
