Abu Dhabi is tightening up its public space policies, and unapproved flyers are now firmly in the spotlight. The Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) has confirmed new fines for those who post or distribute promotional materials in public areas without permission — and the penalties can reach up to AED 4,000.
The update falls under Clause No. 56 of Law No. 2 of 2012, which aims to maintain the capital’s tidy appearance and keep public areas safe and uncluttered. Here’s how the fines stack up:
- First offence: AED 1,000
- Second offence: AED 2,000
- Third and further offences: AED 4,000
What qualifies as an offence? Basically, any flyer, poster, or printed material placed on vehicles, walls, lampposts, or other public fixtures without official approval from the relevant authority. That includes everything from restaurant menus to event promos or real estate advertisements.
The DMT will also be launching an awareness campaign to ensure residents, businesses, and organisers understand the rules. If you’re planning to promote something in Abu Dhabi, make sure you contact the municipality for proper authorisation before you print and distribute anything.
The move reinforces Abu Dhabi’s push to preserve its urban environment and visual standards, and it’s a clear message: unsanctioned advertising will cost you.
