Abu Dhabi Enforces Fines of up to Dh4,000 for Illegal Building Facade Changes

Abu Dhabi cracks down on unlicensed commercial building modifications
In an effort to maintain the capital’s visual and architectural integrity, the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) has intensified enforcement under Law No. 2 of 2012, introducing fines of up to Dh4,000 for unauthorised facade alterations to commercial buildings.

The move is part of a broader strategy to uphold urban sustainability, protect public aesthetics, and ensure that businesses follow legal procedures for modifications to building exteriors.

Key Legal Provisions and Penalties:

• Clause No. 8 of Law No. 2 of 2012 explicitly prohibits:

  • Installation of tools, equipment, or devices

    • Decorative works or structural changes to building facades (including restaurant chimneys, AC units, lighting fixtures, awnings, gas cylinders, etc.)

    • Any such activity without a valid municipal permit

• Fines for unlicensed facade modifications:

  • First offence: Dh1,000

    • Second offence: Dh2,000

    •  or repeated offence: Dh4,000

 Additional Enforcements under Law No. 2 of 2012:

1. Unauthorized fencing or enclosing of properties (Effective March 16):

   • First offence: Dh3,000

     • Second: Dh5,000

     • Subsequent: Dh10,000

2. Violations distorting public spaces (Effective March 10):

   • First offence: Dh5,000

     • Repeated: Up to Dh20,000

3. Abandoned vehicles in public areas (Reminders issued March 3):

   • Under Clause 62:

     • Dirty/neglected vehicles: Dh500 to Dh2,000

• Under Clause 63:

        Vehicle frames left in public: Dh1,000 to Dh4,000

These measures reinforce Abu Dhabi’s commitment to legal compliance, urban beautification, and public health and safety, urging all commercial property owners and residents to obtain proper permits before making visible changes to their buildings or surroundings.

For legal clarity and compliance assistance regarding municipal permits, building modification laws, or urban property regulations, consult legal experts at NYK law firm. 

For any enquiries or information, contact info@thelawreporters.com or call us on +971 52 644 3004. Follow The Law Reporters on WhatsApp Channels