If someone has keyed your car in the UAE, you must immediately document the damage with photos/videos, report the crime to the police (MOI UAE), and then notify your insurance company. The deep, straight scratches from a key are considered criminal vandalism under UAE law. First, check for any potential CCTV cameras nearby, like those in mall parking lots (e.g., Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates) or residential building entrances, and note if other cars were targeted—this helps the police investigation. According to RTA Dubai's traffic regulations, vandalism is a serious offense. You should file a report with the MOI UAE via the 'Police Eye' service or at a nearby police station to obtain a formal report number, which is mandatory for your insurance claim. For common GCC-spec models like a Toyota Land Cruiser or Nissan Patrol, repair costs for a deep scratch on a door panel can range from AED 1,000 to over AED 5,000 at agency workshops, depending on paint type. Comprehensive insurance typically covers malicious damage, but always check your policy's excess amount; for minor scratches on a car like a Toyota Corolla, paying the AED 500-700 excess might not be worthwhile if the repair costs are similar. The total cost also includes potential depreciation for your car's resale value in the used market. Based on common fleet manager data from 2023, the average time to resolve such an incident, from reporting to completing repairs, is 3-7 working days, depending on police and workshop schedules.
