New regulations aim to protect the city’s visual appeal and cultural identity
Abu Dhabi has always taken pride in its clean, organized, and aesthetically appealing urban environment. Now, the emirate is reinforcing that commitment with stricter enforcement measures—and hefty fines for violators. Under new municipal guidelines, property owners who install unsightly fences or make structural changes that disrupt the public appearance of their properties may face penalties of up to Dh10,000.
The Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) is behind this initiative, introducing it as part of a broader effort to preserve Abu Dhabi’s cultural identity and urban harmony. These regulations are rooted in Law No. 2 of 2012, which governs public health, safety, and the general appearance of properties throughout the emirate.
According to Clause 2 of the law, it’s illegal to:
“Fence, enclose or cover any property, whether partially or completely, in a manner that distorts the public appearance.”
This includes residential homes, commercial buildings, green areas, marketplaces, walkways, and public roads. Any alteration that negatively affects the visual or cultural character of these areas is subject to review—and fines.
The penalty structure is designed to discourage repeat offenses and encourage compliance. Here’s how it breaks down:
Dh3,000 – First offence
Dh5,000 – Second offence
Dh10,000 – Third and repeated offences
The escalating fines reflect the importance Abu Dhabi places on maintaining a clean and cohesive urban landscape.
Beyond fencing, the DMT has expanded its scope with a comprehensive Regulation on the Preservation of Public Appearances, in alignment with the same law. This came into effect on March 10 and applies to a wider range of aesthetic issues, such as clutter, signage, and neglected façades.
Dh5,000 – First offence
Up to Dh20,000 – Third or repeated offences
These rules highlight the city’s commitment to maintaining visually pleasing and culturally respectful public spaces.
On March 3, the DMT issued reminders related to abandoned and dirty vehicles—common eyesores that disrupt both safety and aesthetics.
Dh500 – First offence
Dh1,000 – Second offence
Dh2,000 – Third or repeated offences
Dh1,000 – First offence
Dh4,000 – Third or repeated offences
The goal is to eliminate visual pollution while enhancing the safety of shared spaces across the emirate.
Abu Dhabi is recognized globally for its high-quality urban planning, sustainable development, and architectural heritage. These new measures are about more than just enforcement—they reflect a vision for:
Preserving cultural identity amid rapid development
Creating cleaner, more livable communities
Encouraging civic responsibility and pride
Protecting real estate values and aesthetics
For property owners, this means a shared responsibility to contribute positively to the city’s overall image.
These regulations are not just punitive—they’re a call to action for all residents and property owners. Whether you’re planning to renovate, build a fence, or simply park your vehicle, it’s crucial to think about how your actions affect the community.
Maintaining Abu Dhabi’s beauty is a collective effort, and by following these guidelines, we help ensure our city remains one of the most elegant, well-managed capitals in the world.
Stay informed. Stay compliant. Let’s take pride in our surroundings. and at NAS Luxury Real Estate, we’re committed to helping property owners do just that.
Request call back
Notifications
