Property owners in Abu Dhabi will face substantial fines for fencing, enclosing, or covering their properties in a way that distorts the public appearance. This move follows new regulations introduced by the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) aimed at preserving the aesthetic integrity of public spaces across the emirate.
Under Clause 2 of Law No. 2 of 2012, the law specifically “Fencing, enclosing or covering any property, whether partially or completely, in a manner that distorts the public appearance.”
The penalties for violating this regulation are significant. Property owners will be fined Dh3,000 for the first violation, Dh5,000 for a second offence, and Dh10,000 for any third or repeated violations.
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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 the new fencing regulations, the DMT also began enforcing the Regulations on the Preservation of Public Appearances, which align with Law No. 2 of 2012 on March 10.
These regulations further reinforce the importance of maintaining the city’s visual appeal and cultural heritage. Fines under this new regulation range from Dh5,000 for a first violation to Dh20,000 for third and repeated offences.
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.
