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Abu Dhabi imposes up to Dh4,000 fine for unlicensed commercial building facade modifications
These regulations are in line with Law No. 2 of 2012, which aims to ensure a sustainable and visually appealing environment for all
- PUBLISHED: Sat 22 Mar 2025, 9:46 PM
In a continued effort to preserve the aesthetic integrity of Abu Dhabi’s urban environment, the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) has introduced stricter regulations aimed at maintaining the city’s visual appeal.
These new rules prohibit the addition of tools, equipment, or any modifications to the facades of buildings, facilities, and commercial establishments without the appropriate licence. The move is in line with Law No. 2 of 2012, which aims to ensure a sustainable and visually appealing environment for all.
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Violators will be fined Dh1,000 for the first offence, Dh2,000 for a second violation, and Dh4,000 for any third or repeated offences.
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Clause No 8 of Law No. 2 of 2012 specifically states: "Adding any tools, equipment, devices, or carrying out any decorative works or changes to the facades of buildings, or any facilities and commercial establishments (such as restaurant chimneys, gas cylinders, awnings, air conditioning units, lighting works, sidewalks, and similar items) without obtaining a licence."
Law No. 2 of 2012 prohibits any action that alters the appearance of properties in a way that negatively impacts the cultural, architectural, or aesthetic features of public areas. These areas include green spaces, walkways, buildings, marketplaces, and public roads. The law concerns the maintenance of the general appearance and health and public harmony in Abu Dhabi.
In addition to these restrictions, the DMT on March 16 also began enforcing regulations concerning the unauthorised fencing, enclosing, or covering of properties, which distorts the public appearance.
Property owners are now required to obtain proper permits before making such changes. As of March 16, violators will face fines of Dh3,000 for the first offence, Dh5,000 for a second, and Dh10,000 for any subsequent violations.
These measures, part of the DMT's ongoing efforts, also include regulations to preserve the aesthetic integrity of public spaces, which were enforced starting March 10. These new rules mirror the provisions of Law No. 2 of 2012, with penalties ranging from Dh5,000 for first-time offenders to Dh20,000 for repeated violations.
In addition to the regulations, the DMT also issued reminders on March 3 regarding the enforcement of laws against abandoned vehicles. Under Clause 62 of Law No. 2 of 2012, leaving a vehicle in public spaces in a manner that distorts the appearance, such as leaving it dirty, will result in fines. First-time offenders face a Dh500 fine, with the amount increasing to Dh1,000 for a second violation and Dh2,000 for third or repeated violations.
Clause 63 also addresses leaving a vehicle’s body or frame in public places, which also harms the public appearance. Fines for this violation start at Dh1,000 for the first offence and increase to Dh4,000 for third and repeated offences.