Illegal Vehicle Modifications Come To An End In The UAE
Tags:
UAE Car Modification Regulations: What You Need to Know
Introduction
Without clear rules and guidelines, vehicle modifications have long been a grey area in the UAE, with certain emirates being more lenient than others regarding their list of permissible mods. To standardize the process, improve the safety of road users, and ensure that motorists comply with the law, the Emirates Authority for Standardization and Metrology (ESMA) in cooperation with the Automobile and Touring Club of the UAE (ATCUAE) have introduced a new code that sets limits on how much enthusiasts can tune their vehicles.
Overview of the New Modification Code
The code, which excludes motorcycles, trailers, caravans, and tractors, includes:
- Engine modifications
- High-performance braking systems
- Bull bars
- Chassis and suspension modifications
- Exhaust systems
- Transmission upgrades
- Fuel additives
- Air filters
- Radiators
- Ignition systems
- Rims and tires
- Engine air distribution systems
Alterations to fenders, seats, lights, and entertainment systems are excluded from complying with the new code.
Previous Regulation Challenges
Previously, the process was unregulated; “yet a car could be stopped at any given point by the police to say it is an illegal modification,” said Al Tareq Al Ameri, the Chief Executive of Yas Marina Circuit. He continued to explain that the whole process needs to be balanced – a car designed to handle 200 horsepower cannot handle 1,000 horsepower. We need to ensure the quality of the work and whether the fuel being used is safe to avoid a catastrophe.
Modification License Process
To obtain a modification license, owners will need to have their vehicles examined by the inspection center launched at Yas Marina Circuit. The center will start examining cars in a few weeks’ time and issue a paper approving or declining the modifications carried out, which will then need to be taken to ESMA for the issuance of the license.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
Those who do not abide by the new rules will face a jail term and/or fine of at least AED 30,000. Illegally installed parts will also be confiscated. It is worth noting that the same penalty applies to anyone who has introduced, offered, or sold a product that isn’t approved.
Expert Opinions
Mohammed Ben Sulayem, President of ATCUAE and former Emirati rally champion, said: “I am grateful for this. I had modifications too, and there was confusion; nobody knew what was allowed and what was not. Motorists should not look at this as a limitation but as a chance to express their passion within legal and safety limits.”
Related Articles
You might also be interested in: Bentley Bentayga 2017 Review
Editor's Picks
Also See:
