Your car won't start, won't move, or has been in an accident — you need recovery. But how much should it cost? I've seen customers get charged AED 1,500 for a 10km tow because they panicked and called the first number they found. Here's how to avoid that and know exactly what you're paying for.
Free Recovery Options
Before you pay anything, check these first:
- RTA Roadside Assistance (800-9090): Free towing on major Dubai roads. They'll tow you to the nearest safe location or a garage of your choice within Dubai.
- Your insurance policy: Most comprehensive policies include roadside assistance and recovery. Some even cover towing up to 200km. Check your policy or call your insurer.
- New car warranty: If your car is under warranty, the manufacturer's roadside assistance may cover recovery. Check your warranty booklet.
- Credit card benefits: Some premium credit cards in the UAE include roadside assistance as a perk.
Private Recovery Costs
If you need to pay for recovery, here's what's reasonable:
| Service | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Local recovery (within Dubai, up to 30km) | AED 200–400 |
| Recovery from Abu Dhabi to Dubai | AED 500–800 |
| Recovery from Sharjah/Ajman to Dubai | AED 300–500 |
| Night/weekend surcharge | AED 50–150 extra |
| Flatbed truck (for lowered/damaged cars) | AED 300–600 |
My honest advice: Always ask for the total price upfront before the truck arrives. Some operators quote a low "starting from" price then add charges for distance, time, waiting, loading — and you're stuck because your car is already on the truck. Get the full price confirmed on WhatsApp or text before agreeing.
Car Recovery Service
Fast, reliable recovery anywhere in Dubai.
Flatbed vs. Tow Dolly
There are two types of tow trucks, and it matters which one you get:
- Flatbed (recommended): Your car sits flat on the truck bed. Zero risk of damage. Essential for 4WD, AWD, automatic, and any car with low ground clearance.
- Tow dolly/wheel lift: Lifts the front wheels while the rear roll on the ground. Can damage automatic transmissions and AWD systems. Avoid if possible.
At Powerworks, we always use flatbed recovery. I've seen too many cars arrive with additional damage from improper towing — particularly to automatic gearboxes and drive shafts. A few extra dirhams for a flatbed can save thousands in secondary damage.
After an Accident: Police Report First
If you've been in an accident, don't move the car until you have a police report number. In the UAE:
- Call Dubai Police (901) or use the Dubai Police app for minor accidents
- Get the police report number — your insurance needs this
- Then arrange recovery to your preferred garage (not the one the tow driver suggests)
You have the legal right to choose where your car is repaired. Don't let anyone pressure you into using a specific workshop.
What Our Customers Say
Real feedback about their recovery service
"I highly recommend Glenn, Justin & the Powerworks team having always provided excellent support for my car service and repairs. Most recently help began via a breakdown recovery! Swift diagnosis, detailed explanation of both necessary and recommended work."
Mark Reed
"I have been to the big 2 garages in town for either servicing or modifying my car, but I recently tried out PowerWorks, as recommended by a friend, and I have to say the level of professionalism, transparency, customer service, know how is unmatched."
Yassin Ramadan
Powerworks Recovery Service
We offer flatbed recovery across Dubai and the Northern Emirates. WhatsApp us your location and we'll give you a fixed price — no hidden charges, no surprises. We'll bring your car straight to our workshop where we can diagnose and fix the issue that caused the breakdown in the first place.