01Start with the rules
UAE banks generally finance up to 80% of a car's value, so plan for at least 20% down. Your total monthly debt repayments, including the new car EMI, generally need to stay within 50% of your salary.
02Then add the hidden costs
Comprehensive insurance, registration, Salik tolls, parking, fuel or charging and servicing can add hundreds of dirhams a month. Budget for them before you choose a price.
Plan for at least 20% down.KEY POINT
03A simple rule of thumb
Many planners suggest keeping all car costs — EMI plus running costs — to around 15% to 20% of take-home pay. It's not a bank rule, but it leaves room for savings.
04Shorter tenure, smaller total
A 36-month loan has a higher EMI than 60 months, but you pay far less interest and own the car sooner. Try both in a calculator.
