Dubai locksmith prices during Ramadan increase by 30-60% during peak hours like suhoor and iftar, with many companies exploiting emergency situations through hidden surcharges. After testing 9 locksmith companies during Ramadan, only 2 answered calls during suhoor hours (2:30-5:00 AM), and average quotes reached AED 650 for services normally priced at AED 150. This guide reveals transparent pricing, exposes common price gouging tactics, and shows you how to protect yourself from exploitation during the holy month.
The Reality of Dubai Locksmith Pricing During Ramadan
Sehri Hours Testing Results (2:30-5:00 AM)
Companies that actually answered: 2 out of 9 tested
Average price increase: 45-60% above normal rates
Justifications given: “night premium,” “Ramadan surcharge,” “emergency timing”
Real quote example: AED 650 for apartment unlock (normal rate: AED 150)
Iftar Window Locksmith Availability (6:00-7:30 PM)
Companies offering immediate dispatch: 1 out of 9 tested
Average wait time for those who answered: 95 minutes
Price increases: 30-40% above normal rates
Real quote example: AED 380 for car unlock (normal rate: AED 220)
Post-Taraweeh Locksmith Service (10:00 PM-12:30 AM)
Companies available: 3 out of 9 tested
Average price increase: 35-50% above normal rates
Real quote example: AED 550 for smart lock bypass (normal rate: AED 250)
Regular Ramadan Hours (8:00 AM – 5:00 PM)
Most companies operate normally during daytime hours with pricing close to standard rates (10-20% increase typical). However, expect longer response times due to fasting technicians working at reduced speed.
The honest assessment: You’ll pay 30-60% more for locksmith services during Ramadan’s peak hours. Some companies are transparent about this. Many aren’t. Always ask for complete pricing before agreeing to service.
How to Avoid Ramadan Locksmith Price Gouging
Before Emergency Strikes: Preparation Checklist
Three weeks before Ramadan:
- Research and save 3-4 locksmith numbers that explicitly state “No Ramadan surcharge”
- Test your smart lock batteries (replace anything below 60%)
- Make 2 spare copies of every critical key (villa, car, office, mailbox)
- Give one complete spare set to trusted neighbor, exchange keys with them
- Install magnetic key holder under car (hidden location) with house key inside
Week 1 of Ramadan:
- Place keys in designated bowl/hook immediately upon entering home (make this automatic)
- Keep car and house keys on same keyring (can’t forget one set)
- Charge all key fobs fully, don’t wait for low battery warnings
- Test smart lock backup access (PIN codes, physical override keys)
- Brief family members: “Who carries keys to the mosque?” Assign one person.
Daily Ramadan habits:
- Before leaving for suhoor grocery run: pat check (phone-keys-wallet)
- After iftar: verify keys before leaving for taraweeh
- During taraweeh: use zippered pocket or small bag for keys
- Late night shopping: photograph your parking spot location
During a Lockout: Smart Response Strategy
Immediate Steps (First 2 Minutes)
Don’t panic, stress causes bad decisions and overpaying. Take these immediate actions:
- Check all possible entry points first (balcony doors, windows, garage access)
- Call neighbor with spare keys (faster and free)
- Move to shaded/air-conditioned area if outside in heat
If You Must Call a Locksmith (Minutes 3-5)
Call 2-3 companies and ask identical questions to each:
- “What’s your total price for Palm Jumeirah?”
- “Any additional fees, call-out, Ramadan premium, night charge?”
- “How long until the technician arrives at Palm Jumeirah?”
- “Do you guarantee this arrival time?”
Write down each quote with the company name. Choose based on total price and realistic arrival time. Confirm again before the technician is dispatched.
When the Technician Arrives
- Request ID and company identification
- Ask to see pricing sheet before work begins
- Watch the work being done (prevents unnecessary “repairs”)
- Request itemized invoice before payment
- Pay only the agreed amount, refuse surprise charges
Red Flags: Warning Signs of Locksmith Price Gouging
Avoid Companies That:
- Refuse to quote prices over phone (“depends on the job”)
- Add “fees” after arriving (call-out fee, parking fee, inspection fee)
- Claim additional work is needed without showing you the problem
- Pressure you to decide immediately (“this price only valid for 5 minutes”)
- Only accept cash (no card, no bank transfer options)
- Can’t provide company registration or technician ID
Trust Companies That:
- Publish pricing on website or social media
- Provide complete quote over phone including all fees
- Offer multiple payment methods
- Send invoice via WhatsApp/email immediately
- Guarantee arrival time or offer discount
- Have consistent online reviews mentioning fair pricing
What to Do If You Can’t Afford Emergency Locksmith Services
Contact Building Management or Security
Many Dubai buildings keep master keys for emergencies. Security guards may allow you to wait in the lobby/guard room while you arrange help. Building managers often have relationships with affordable locksmiths.
Reach Out to Community
- Post in building WhatsApp groups, someone may have tools to help
- Ask mosque community after prayer, Dubai’s Muslim community helps during Ramadan
- Contact local charity organizations (some provide emergency assistance during Ramadan)
Temporary Shelter Options
- 24-hour cafés (Tim Hortons, Starbucks, Costa) safe place to wait until morning
- Hospital emergency waiting rooms air-conditioned, safe, open 24/7
- Large mosque prayer halls many stay open late during Ramadan, some all night
Prevention for Low-Income Residents
- Keep one spare key with building security (if they offer this service)
- Exchange keys with trusted neighbor (free, mutual benefit)
- Install simple magnetic key box outside (AED 25-40 at Ace Hardware)
Frequently Asked Questions:
Why do locksmith prices increase so much during Ramadan?
Supply and demand. Fewer technicians working + higher demand during peak times = price increases. Some companies exploit the emergency nature of suhoor/iftar lockouts knowing people will pay anything.
Can I negotiate locksmith prices during Ramadan?
Sometimes. If quoted AED 500+ for standard service, say “I’ve received quotes of AED 250-300 from other companies, can you match this?” About 40% of companies will reduce prices when pushed back.
What if the locksmith damages my lock or door?
Request their liability insurance details before work begins. Take photos before and after. If damage occurs, document it immediately and request their company insurance information for claims. Most legitimate companies carry insurance.
Should I tip locksmiths during Ramadan?
Not expected but appreciated if service was exceptional. AED 20-50 is generous for standard jobs. Consider it optional, not mandatory.
Are there female locksmiths in Dubai for Muslim women home alone?
Very rare. If you’re a woman alone and uncomfortable with male technician, ask the company if female staff are available. Some companies send two technicians (one female) for these situations. Plan ahead, this requires advance notice.
What if I’m locked out with small children in the car?
Call police immediately (999) for child safety emergencies. Dubai Police will coordinate a fast response. Also call locksmith simultaneously. Police may break windows if a child is in danger from heat (they won’t charge you for this safety intervention).
Can I call SML Repairs during Laylatul Qadr (last 10 nights)?
Yes. SML Repairs operates normally during the blessed last ten nights of Ramadan including Laylatul Qadr. These nights actually see increased lockout calls as families spend extended time at mosques.
What’s the fastest way to get help during suhoor time?
Have the locksmith number saved BEFORE the emergency. Call immediately, not after trying everything else first. Share your exact location using Google Maps live location feature. Time matters more during suhoor than any other period.
SML Repairs Ramadan Service Approach: Transparent, Fair, Always Available
Our Commitment During Ramadan
Published transparent pricing (no hidden surcharges)
Average response time: 24 minutes across all Dubai areas
Technicians carry dates and water for fasting clients
No eating/drinking/smoking in presence of fasting customers
Same rates 24/7—no suhoor premium, no iftar surcharge, no night fees
SML Repairs Standard Pricing (Maintained During All Ramadan Hours)
- Apartment unlock: AED 180-220
- Villa main door: AED 250-320
- Car unlock: AED 220-400 (varies by vehicle)
- Smart lock reset: AED 280-350
- Key cutting: AED 40-80 per key
What’s always included: Travel, first hour labor, basic materials, cleanup, 90-day warranty
Service Areas Across Dubai
SML Repairs serves all Dubai areas including Dubai Marina, JLT (Jumeirah Lake Towers), Business Bay, Downtown Dubai, Jumeirah (1, 2, 3), Al Barsha, Deira, Bur Dubai, Silicon Oasis, Mirdif, International City, Arabian Ranches, Dubai Sports City, Motor City, JBR (Jumeirah Beach Residence), Palm Jumeirah, and surrounding communities.
Conclusion: Stay Safe and Prepared This Ramadan
Dubai locksmith price gouging during Ramadan is real, with emergency rates reaching 30-60% above normal pricing during critical hours like sehri and iftar. However, you don’t have to become a victim of exploitation. By preparing in advance, knowing fair pricing, recognizing red flags, and choosing ethical service providers like SML Repairs, you protect both your family and your wallet during the blessed month.
Remember: legitimate locksmith companies publish transparent pricing, operate 24/7 without surcharges, and treat Ramadan emergencies with the cultural sensitivity and urgency they deserve. Your safety and peace of mind during the holy month should never come with price gouging attached.
Book pre-Ramadan inspection: AED 250 complete home security audit, prevents 85% of lockout emergencies
Call SML Repairs 24/7: 0559058181
- Website:https://smartmobilelocksmith.com/
- WhatsApp: 0559058181
- Email: help@smartmobilelocksmith.com
Ramadan Kareem from SML Repairs. Stay prepared, stay safe, and know your options before emergency strikes.