Owning Luxury Car in Qatar: Everything You Need to Know

A luxury car is more than just a way to get around — it's a status symbol and in many cases, a significant financial asset. But high value also means high risk. A small scratch on a Ferrari can cost approximately QAR 9,000 to repair. Therefore, having the right insurance is crucial. This guide breaks down everything from average annual premiums to what happens during a claim and how to reduce costs.

Comprehensive insurance applies to both standard and high-end vehicles. However, luxury cars often require additional coverage features. They’re more expensive to repair, built with rare parts that can be difficult to find in case of replacement need, and are more frequently the target of theft. That’s why it’s very common to see extra cover extensions such as agreed value coverage — protecting you from your car’s depreciation, access to manufacturer-guaranteed garages, and coverage for original parts, sensors, and electronics.

Insurance premiums for luxury vehicles are primarily based on the car’s market value and category. As a general rule, premiums for an upscale sedan, such as the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, average around QAR 5,630 per year, while a Porsche Cayenne or similar luxury SUV typically costs about QAR 8,166 annually.

At the very top end, Ferrari, McLaren, Bentley, or Rolls-Royce models can incur insurance premiums of QAR 14,000 to QAR 70,000 per year.

Owning a newer model with safety features, parking your car in a secure garage, and maintaining a clean accident record can help reduce premium costs. If you are about to renew your car insurance or driving license, use it as an opportunity to explore any add-ons your insurer offers for luxury cars.

A comprehensive insurance should cover the below:

• Repair at authorized garages

• Use of genuine manufacturer parts

• Agreed value amount in case of total loss

• Low deductibles

• Roadside assistance with towing anywhere in Qatar

• Replacement hire Car for the duration of the repair

• Flood or sand damage coverage

Filing a claim for a luxury car works much like any other vehicle — but with some important extras. The evaluation phase is often more detailed, as insurance companies may require specialists to assess repairs, particularly if the damage includes carbon-fibre panels, crucial electronics, or imported parts.

Depending on the car’s make, certain components may need to be ordered from abroad, which affects repair timelines. A cracked infotainment screen in a BMW i7, for example, might take weeks to replace and can cost several thousand Qatari Riyals if it’s out of warranty — and you’ll want to make sure your policy covers a replacement vehicle that’s comparable in class.

Furthermore, documentation is everything. Take clear photos of all damage and keep receipts for any aftermarket parts or upgrades. When filing a claim, provide full details — including the date, time, and location of the incident, a brief description of what happened, any third-party involvement, and copies of your Istimara and driving license. The more complete your file, the faster your claim can move forward. 

Consider how you allocate your budget by understanding the breakdown of costs involved, ensuring the policy truly aligns with your high-value vehicle. Here are a few tips that can help you out:

Check for cross-border coverage: If your car travels, your insurance should travel with it

Keep your policy in sync with upgrades: If you have installed carbon-fibre trim, personalised wheels or factory performance kits — special packages from the manufacturer that enhance speed or handling — these can all affect your policy. Make sure you update your policy with every upgrade, otherwise, claims can be denied

Prioritize brand-specific repair access: Not all “approved” garages ensure proper handling of possible issues. Choose a policy that gives you access to workshops and partners specializing in your car’s brand — especially if you drive  a Ferrari, Bentley, or AMG-tuned Mercedes

Plan for downtime: Repairs on high-end vehicles can take weeks, especially if parts are imported. Look for policies that include a premium replacement car while yours is in the shop

Bundle for bigger benefits: If you own multiple high-value assets — such as a boat, second car, or even luxury property — providers may offer special rates or expanded protection when you bundle coverage under one provider