UAE businessman loses Dh5 million worth of cars due to hailstorm in Al Ain

Emirati businessman car

An Emirati businessman faced a devastating loss of approximately Dh5 million when 47 of his luxury cars, both brand new and second-hand, were severely damaged during a fierce hailstorm and flooding in Al Ain. Mohammed Rashid Abdullah, the proprietor of Al Motamad Car Showroom in the Al Ain industrial area, recounted the unprecedented nature of the calamity, expressing disbelief at the extent of damage sustained by his entire fleet of vehicles.

The hailstorm, characterized by hailstones the size of golf balls, descended upon Al Ain on Monday, February 12, amid relentless downpour that inundated numerous areas and blanketed the city in ice. Residents, including long-time inhabitants of Al Ain, described the hailstorm as the most severe in years, highlighting its unprecedented intensity and impact on the community.

For Abdullah, the aftermath of the inclement weather proved catastrophic for his business, resulting in staggering damages totaling Dh5 million. The affected vehicles spanned a range of luxury sedans, SUVs, pick-up trucks, and mid-range sedans, with many suffering extensive damage to their windows, bonnets, bodies, and even submersion in floodwaters.

Abdullah expressed regret over the lack of foresight regarding the severity of the weather conditions, admitting that he never anticipated the escalation to strong winds, flooding, and hail. He voiced hope for the establishment of designated areas in Al Ain where car showroom owners could safely display their vehicles and be shielded from future natural disasters, underscoring the need for proactive measures to mitigate risks to businesses.

Compounding Abdullah's woes was the absence of insurance coverage to offset the losses incurred by the damaged vehicles. While his showroom was insured against fire and other incidents, individual cars within the inventory were not covered by insurance policies. This oversight highlighted the importance of securing comprehensive insurance coverage, including protection against natural disasters and unforeseen events, to safeguard assets and mitigate financial risks.

Toshita Chauhan, an insurance expert, emphasized the necessity of property all-risk insurance for businesses storing inventory, such as car showrooms. Such coverage extends to encompass natural calamities like floods and hailstorms, providing financial protection against damages to stored assets. Chauhan stressed the importance of thorough risk assessment and comprehensive insurance coverage to mitigate potential losses and ensure business continuity.

Despite the substantial setback, Abdullah remains determined to salvage what he can from the damaged vehicles and transparently disclose their condition to prospective buyers. His commitment to maintaining integrity and trustworthiness in business underscores the resilience and determination of entrepreneurs in overcoming adversities.

In conclusion, Abdullah's ordeal serves as a sobering reminder of the unpredictable nature of natural disasters and the importance of proactive risk management and comprehensive insurance coverage for businesses. As communities strive to recover from the aftermath of calamitous events, resilience, adaptability, and foresight remain crucial in navigating uncertain times and safeguarding livelihoods.