UAE License Plate Rules: No Exceptions!

No Visible License Plate, No Driving in UAE – Strict Penalties Await Violators

Traffic regulations in the United Arab Emirates have always been strict, especially in Abu Dhabi, where authorities regularly inspect compliance with traffic laws and license plate visibility. The latest warning targets drivers who obscure their license plates with items like bike racks or when the plates are not clearly visible. In such cases, motorists face a fine of 400 dirhams, and in more severe cases, imprisonment may even be imposed.

Why is License Plate Visibility Important?

A license plate is a vehicle's official identifier. According to traffic regulations, every vehicle must have a clearly readable, standard-sized, and positioned license plate that cannot be obscured, damaged, or tampered with in any way. A visible license plate is essential for police checks, speed cameras, and automatic systems that assist in enforcing traffic laws.

If the license plate is not visible, it hinders identification and jeopardizes public safety, especially when an offense or accident occurs. Authorities therefore strictly enforce penalties for hiding or covering the plate, whether accidental or intentional.

The Regulation's Basis: Federal Decree Law No. 14 of 2024

The new regulation is contained in Federal Decree Law No. 14 of 2024, which comprehensively addresses issues related to the use of license plates. Under these regulations:

Article 21 states that no vehicle may operate with its license plate improperly secured as specified in the implementation regulation. This concerns not only the physical placement of the plate but also its readability and integrity.

Article 27, point B, states that those who hide the license plate, for example with a bike rack, package, or any other object, face a fine of 400 dirhams if it is not visible during traffic.

Article 34 outlines that in more severe cases, such as using a counterfeit or another vehicle's license plate, imprisonment and a minimum fine of 20,000 dirhams may be imposed. The law strictly prohibits falsifying, removing, relocating, or manipulating license plate data in any way.

What Constitutes an Offense?

The following cases may all result in penalties:

License plate illegibility due to dust, mud, scratches, or coverage.

Bike racks, trailers, or any apparatus that obscures the plate.

Intentional bending, removal, or modification of the plate.

Using a license plate registered to another vehicle.

Transferring or unauthorized installation on another vehicle.

Increased Inspections in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi police have emphasized that inspections will increase, with a focus on examining license plate visibility. In addition to automated camera systems, patrol units also monitor vehicles that violate regulations in any manner. Drivers are urged to regularly check their vehicle's plates, particularly before long trips, tours, or bike transport activities.

Safety First

Authorities advocate not only for legal compliance but also for enhanced traffic safety. A well-identified license plate allows for quick vehicle identification in the event of an accident and aids traffic control and law enforcement measures.

Adherence to rules is crucial in the Emirates, and license plate readability is no exception. Motorists are encouraged to keep plates clean and clearly visible, avoiding any form of obstruction.

What Can Drivers Do?

Ensure that bike racks installed do not cover the license plate.

If necessary, use a separate rear plate holder for a new, officially issued secondary license plate.

Regularly clean the plate of dust, dirt, and mud.

Avoid using reflective film or tinted covers on the plate.

Do not swap the license plate with one from another vehicle.

Summary

UAE traffic regulations unambiguously stipulate that license plates must always be clearly visible, readable, and intact. Abu Dhabi police strongly warn drivers: there is zero tolerance for violations, be they intentional or accidental. A 400 dirham fine is already a deterrent, but the potential imposition of tens of thousands of dirhams in fines and possible imprisonment in cases of severe violations demonstrate that the Emirates take traffic safety seriously.

Drivers have the responsibility to comply with the rules and act conscientiously. A visible license plate is not only a legal requirement but a cornerstone of societal trust and public safety.

(Source: Abu Dhabi Police Press Release.)