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Car enthusiasts love a car with a striking exterior, a powerful engine, and improved performance. In the UAE, though, not all car modifications are allowed. In order to maintain road safety, all vehicle modifications must abide by the Federal Traffic Law. 

The car could stand out with a few aesthetic tweaks. But making changes is not allowed by the book of car modification rules, and it may lead drivers to the legal hot water, driving them to penalties, black points, and even the potential for their cars to be seized. Here we talk about some illegal car modifications in Dubai and the UAE that may draw undesired notice from law enforcement.

Car owners should be aware of the UAE car modification rules before making any changes, as such modifications are growing in popularity. While certain small modifications to an automobile are allowed, substantial alterations to the engine, exhaust system, chassis, etc. are not.

Engine Modifications

In the UAE, modifying an engine is prohibited and carries a maximum AED 1000 fine. It is not permitted to increase the engine's displacement. It is also suggested to refrain from installing a supercharger, turbocharger, or any other performance-enhancing upgrades. A car's engine must continue to be installed in the factory-specified configuration as per the Federal Traffic Law. If you don't follow these guidelines, you risk impoundment, heavy penalties, and black points. Therefore, you must be aware of the illegal car modifications in Dubai and the UAE.

Car’s Chassis or Structure Modification 

In the car modification rules, it is completely prohibited to cut, weld, or drill into the car's frame. Any modifications made to a car’s chassis or structure run the risk of seriously undermining the vehicle's structural integrity. It might also turn into a risk to safety. AED 1000 in fines will apply if the authorities are not approved before making modifications to the chassis. 

Exhaust System Modifications

In the illegal car modifications in Dubai and the UAE, modifying an exhaust system is prohibited. Penalties may result from removing the catalytic converter, cutting out the muffler, or changing any part. 

Federal traffic regulations are also broken by modifying the exhaust system to make excessive noise. There are fines for noisy car rides in the UAE. This is due to the fact that these changes make noise pollution worse. All vehicles must adhere to the government-imposed noise and emission regulations.

Modifications to the Suspension 

The handling and stability of a vehicle can be greatly impacted by modifications to the suspension system. Modifying the car's suspension, such as dropping or elevating it above the height suggested by the manufacturer, may put you in danger. 

The replacement of shock absorbers is also prohibited in the UAE. Penalties and black points may result from any of these changes. The illegal car modifications in Dubai and the UAE will definitely drag you to the penalties.

Modifications to the Body of the Car

Vehicle owners are not allowed to modify the vehicle's body without permission. This includes painting the car a different colour without getting permission from the relevant authority. Should a car's colour change, the owner will be required to pay an AED 800 fine. It's also not permitted to add or remove any body pieces, including spoilers, wings, or bumpers. It's also not recommended to install lights that aren't manufacturer-standard. Modifications made to the car's body may interfere with its aerodynamics and pose a risk to safety.

Other prohibited car modifications in the UAE consist of exceeding the allowed percentage for window tinting (AED 1500 in fines will be imposed by the authorities) and putting decals or stickers on the car that could be offensive or block the driver's view. (There will be a 500 AED fine for this.)

Does the UAE have laws against loud exhaust?

In the UAE, extremely loud exhausts are prohibited. Modifications to the exhaust system are a contributing factor to noisy exhaust and may impose heavy fines. The government has set noise requirements that all cars must meet.

What are the Black Points in Dubai Police?

Traffic violations are tracked by Dubai police, who also assign black points for infractions. In addition to fines, illegal car modifications in Dubai result in the assignment of black points.

What are the regulations in Abu Dhabi on car modifications?

In the UAE, any car modification must be carried out in a licensed workshop. The permission of the Emirates Authority for Standardization and Metrology (ESMA) is another task for owners.

Car enthusiasts should avoid all of these illegal car modifications in Dubai and the UAE. Instead of making modifications to their current car, those who want a new car with better performance and a different appearance might peruse the new cars available in the UAE. At the same time, comprehensive or third-party car insurance is another point that you need to pay a lot of attention to. Don’t skip this purchase as it is mandated by the UAE law.

Our company offers comprehensive and third-party car insurance in the UAE, giving drivers the coverage that most suits their requirements. We offer a plan to meet your needs, whether you're searching for affordable third-party car insurance that guarantees coverage for injuries to other people or comprehensive insurance that covers damage to your vehicle in addition to third-party responsibility. By putting a strong emphasis on customer satisfaction and providing individualized plans, quick claims processing, and a network of reliable repair facilities across the UAE, we hope to provide drivers peace of mind when driving. You can drive with confidence knowing that you are safe with us.