Your tyres are the only part of the car that touches the road, and UAE conditions are tough on them. This guide covers the law, what police and the Ministry of Interior say causes tyre bursts, and how to check your own tyres.
What the law says
Driving with unfit or worn-out tyres is an offence under Article 82 of the Federal Traffic Law. Abu Dhabi Police, Khaleej Times and Gulf News all report the same penalty: a Dh500 fine, four black points and a one-week vehicle impoundment.
Enforcement is real. According to Ministry of Interior (MOI) records reported by Khaleej Times in June 2024, motorists received 18,145 violations for driving with unfit tyres in 2023. Abu Dhabi recorded the most, with 8,984, followed by Dubai with 2,413 and Sharjah with 2,093.
Tyre bursts cause real accidents
The same MOI records show that 22 accidents in the UAE in 2023 were caused by tyre bursts: 13 in Abu Dhabi, 4 in Dubai, 3 in Ras Al Khaimah and one each in Sharjah and Fujairah, as reported by Khaleej Times.
What causes tyre bursts
Police and experts quoted by Khaleej Times and Gulf News point to the same factors again and again:
Tyre age. Tyres deteriorate over time, even with plenty of tread left.
Heat. High temperatures raise tyre pressure and stress the rubber.
Wrong pressure. Both under- and over-inflation make damage and bursts more likely.
Overloading. Carrying more than the tyre's load rating.
Speed beyond the tyre's rated limit.
Damage and misuse. Cracks, bulges and driving on unsuitable surfaces.
Poor-quality tyres, which wear out faster.
Gulf News reported that the MOI has warned that summer heat significantly increases tyre-related risks, and that authorities step up inspections in the hotter months.
How to check your tyres
Read the age
Every tyre carries a DOT code on the sidewall. The last four digits give the week and year of manufacture. For example, "2423" means week 24 of 2023. Police campaigns reported by Khaleej Times specifically urge drivers to check the manufacturing date.
Check pressure when the tyres are cold
Use the pressures on the sticker in the driver's door frame or in the owner's manual, not the maximum printed on the tyre. Check first thing in the morning, before the car has been driven or heated by the sun.
Look for damage
Look for cracks in the sidewall, bulges, cuts, exposed cords and uneven wear. Uneven wear can point to alignment or suspension problems.
Measure the tread
A workshop can measure tread depth in seconds. Replace tyres when they approach the minimum and don't push them to the limit.
Don't forget the spare
Abu Dhabi Police have reminded drivers to check their spare tyre as well as the fitted tyres. If your car has a spare, keep it inflated and in date.
Buying tyres: what to ask
Is the size, load index and speed rating right for my car?
When was this tyre made? Fresh stock matters, because tyres age on the shelf too.
Is fitting, balancing and alignment included?
What's the warranty?
Sharjah Police have urged motorists to use high-quality, approved tyres and to avoid counterfeit or second-hand ones, according to Khaleej Times.
Tyres and your RTA inspection
The RTA technical inspection before registration renewal checks safety and roadworthiness, and tyres are a basic safety item. Checking them in advance lowers the risk of a failed test and a re-test fee. See car inspection in Dubai.
Find a tyre shop
Compare tyre shops in Dubai and across the UAE. If you have a blowout, a car recovery service in Dubai can help. For alignment and suspension issues, book a car service in Dubai, and see how we verify businesses.
Sources: Ministry of Interior records as reported by Khaleej Times and Gulf News; Abu Dhabi Police; Federal Traffic Law (Article 82).
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