UAE Window Tint Law: What's Legal in Dubai and Every Emirate

The short answer

Under the federal traffic law that took effect in July 2018, private cars in the UAE may have up to 50% tint on the side and rear windows. The front windscreen may not be tinted, except for a strip at the top of up to 15 cm. The same rule applies in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah and the other emirates, because it is federal.

Which windows can be tinted

Dubai Police explained the rule when the new law came in:

• Side windows and rear window: up to 50% tint
• Front windscreen: no tint, except a strip at the top of up to 15 cm (about 5.5 inches)
• Rental cars and company cars: the same 50% allowance applies
• Trucks and taxis: excluded from the 50% allowance

What "50% tint" means in practice

The percentage describes how much the film darkens the glass. A legal 50% shade still lets you see out clearly at night, while a good ceramic film at that shade blocks far more heat than its darkness suggests. That is why we recommend ceramic film: you get strong heat rejection without going darker than the law allows.

Darker tint, medical needs and exemptions

Darker tint can be allowed with prior approval from the traffic authorities, for example for medical reasons. If you have an approval, keep the document in the car. We stock every shade and explain these limits before we install, so you can make an informed choice.

Fines

Driving with tint darker than allowed, or with a tinted windscreen, can lead to a traffic fine. News reports have quoted fines of AED 1,500 for illegal tint. Amounts and enforcement can change, so check the current rules with the police in your emirate if you are unsure.

How we keep you legal

We stock every STEK shade from 5% to 70%, explain the limits for each window, and leave camera and sensor areas behind the windscreen clear. We install at your home, office or building parking in all seven emirates, and every automotive tint carries a lifetime warranty.