UAE: Why Many Residents Prefer Leasing Cars Over Buying

Leasing cars has become an increasingly popular option among UAE residents seeking flexibility and convenience. For many, leasing offers a solution to financial and lifestyle challenges that make buying a car less practical.

Why Choose Leasing?

1. Easier Approval Than Auto Loans:
   Securing a car lease is often simpler than obtaining a bank loan, especially with rising salary requirements and a decline in overall wages.

   • Ifthikar Aly, CEO of Kandy Cars Trading, explained, "Leasing has become the most viable solution for many people who find it challenging to qualify for loans."

2. Flexibility for Expats:

   • Mariah Albert, a British expat, chose leasing during her first year in the UAE due to uncertainty about her long-term plans.
   • "Leasing let me focus on my career without worrying about ownership. Plus, I love driving a new car every year without maintenance hassles," she said.

3. Convenience for Frequent Visitors:

   • Omer Amin, a Sudanese businessman, finds leasing ideal for his frequent trips to the UAE.
   • "A smaller down payment and no concerns about depreciation make it easier to manage my finances. I can return the car at the end of the lease without worrying about resale value," he noted.

4. Maintenance-Free Driving:
   Leasing agreements typically include maintenance, saving drivers from unexpected repair costs.

Downsides of Leasing

While leasing suits many, it isn't for everyone:

• Mileage Limits:

  • Fatima S, an Indian expat, found the restrictions frustrating.
  • "I enjoy road trips, and leasing felt too restrictive. Buying my own car turned out to be more practical for me," she shared.

• Lack of Ownership:

  • At the end of the lease, you must return the car or pay to buy it, which might not appeal to long-term residents.

How Leasing Works

Leasing involves paying a monthly fee to use a vehicle for a specified period (typically six months to four years). At the end of the lease, the driver can return the car or purchase it outright.

Industry Insights

• Flexible Options:

  • Leasing periods range from a few months to several years, catering to varying needs.
  • According to Boby John of Galadari Rent A Car, leasing has grown steadily, with terms designed to suit all types of clients.

• Upfront Savings:

  • Leasing usually requires a smaller down payment compared to buying, making it an attractive option for those managing tight budgets.

Conclusion

For UAE residents facing financial uncertainty or seeking a hassle-free driving experience, leasing offers a flexible and convenient alternative to car ownership. However, for those who value unlimited mileage or long-term stability, buying might still be the better choice. As leasing options expand, more residents are finding solutions tailored to their unique needs.