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Looking at many of the car ads here I keep seeing references to "Gulf specs," but I don't know what that means.

Although I did try an Internet search, I couldn't find the answer. And, I don't want to ask a car dealer about something that seems so basic to the car market in Dubai.

I assume that Gulf specs refers to specifications for cars in the UAE and other GCC countries, but what exactly does that involve?

It means the air con is uprated and the dash is of a more durable material so the sun doesn't damage it. I'm sure theres more, theres others that will know and post more.

gulf specs is to do with the physical aspects of the vehicle operating in a much harsher environment than it was originally designed for.

better air filers to handle the dust.

engines have a much higher tolerance to high temperature than european models - use coolant in the radiator - never water alone!

one of the more endearing little features is a audio alarm that sounds when you travel over 120km/h - although with a little ingenuity or loud music you can either disconnect or ignore it.

indicator lights are optional

again... as per arnie .... i'm sure there are more ...

indicator lights are optional

It amazes me that one can buy a top of the range car eg Ferrari, Hummer but cannot afford to purchase some of the optional extras like indicators.
You can get antirust treatments on cars but I don't know if that is a gulf spec.

The thermostat is calibrated differently for Gulf spec cars.

Also, dunno what you mean by anti-rust GAB... We don't need rust proofing here unless you drive your SUV in the ocean

dbxsoul wrote:gulf specs is to do with the physical aspects of the vehicle operating in a much harsher environment than it was originally designed for.

better air filers to handle the dust.

engines have a much higher tolerance to high temperature than european models - use coolant in the radiator - never water alone!

one of the more endearing little features is a audio alarm that sounds when you travel over 120km/h - although with a little ingenuity or loud music you can either disconnect or ignore it.

indicator lights are optional

again... as per arnie .... i'm sure there are more ...

nice one DXB,

so are brakes optional also ? as is stop/tail lights

ohhhh someat Liban said about rust.

I heard somewhere that although the rain isn't a problem rust wise, isn't the high humidity damaging to cars?

dunno, someat i either read or heard

High humidity in itself can lead to corrosion of wires of the car's electrical system over time.

It will not lead to body/surface rust on a vehicule that is not damaged. A damaged car with bare metal will be subject to corrosion over a long period of exposed time....

Other than that, cars can last many many years here without body rust and provided proper maintenance schedule is followed.

Liban- they stick tar-like goo under the underneath of the car. If you drive your car on the sand (and we do go into the water a bit) you need it-plus we are in a coastal area. So salt content in the sand and air is a prob.-chemistry and all.

so are brakes optional also

Hmmm... me thinks you are taking the mickey!! Arnie- I must tell you the story about that incident it turned out to be a nightmare!

It brings up a whole other point about re-registering your car here too. They are extremely thorough.

GAB wrote:Liban- they stick tar-like goo under the underneath of the car.

That's already applied from factory. Putting more on there doesn't do much except make your car heavier and cut out .01 decibel.

GAB wrote:Liban- they stick tar-like goo under the underneath of the car. If you drive your car on the sand (and we do go into the water a bit) you need it-plus we are in a coastal area. So salt content in the sand and air is a prob.-chemistry and all.

The tar content is nothing more than sound deadening and bottom protection. It is not rust proofing.

All cars are made from galvanised steel these days and this type of material effective in rust fighting.

I worked in the automotive business, so I know my cars

i heard you get a shisha in the glove box too

As some would know I just drive 'em and crash 'em.

basically, Gulf spec are the best world wide, they would work effectively in africa " +40 cls or north pole Canada -40"

GAB wrote:As some would know I just drive 'em and crash 'em.

You are a woman Gab - end of........

AD__REP wrote:basically, Gulf spec are the best world wide, they would work effectively in africa " +40 cls or north pole Canada -40"

I have seen Gulf Specs.... They will not work in Canada. No way what-so-ever!!

Arnie-I must show you the drive thru' photos Now there is something anyone could be proud of! Only in Dubai do you get the real thing withhout it being some doctored net photo!