Worn-out tires are a major cause of road accidents in the UAE. High summer temperatures can weaken tire rubber and increasing the risk of tyre blowouts. Abu Dhabi Police recently shared a video as part of their “Safe Summer” and “Summer Without Accidents” campaigns, showing real-life accidents caused by tire failures. These include:

• A car swerving across a highway and flipping after a tire burst.
• A speeding vehicle crashing into another lane due to a blowout.
• A recovery truck hitting a roadside barrier after tire failure.

These incidents highlight how worn-out tires can lead to loss of control, endangering drivers, passengers, and other road users.

UAE Traffic Laws on Tire Safety

Under Article 82 of the UAE Traffic Law, driving with unfit tires is a serious offense. The penalties include:

Abu Dhabi Police have increased traffic monitoring to enforce these rules, ensuring safer roads for everyone. Violators face not only fines but also the inconvenience of having their vehicle impounded.

How to Check Your Tires for Safety?

To avoid accidents and penalties, regularly inspect your tires. Abu Dhabi Police recommends the following steps:

1. Check for Cracks or Damage: Inspect the tire surface for visible cracks, cuts, or bulges. These are signs of wear and tear.
2. Measure Tread Depth: Use a tread depth gauge or the “coin test.” Insert a Dh1 coin into the tire’s tread. If the outer band is fully visible, the tread is too low.
3. Verify Tire Expiry Date: Tires have a four-digit code (e.g., 0323 means manufactured in March 2023). Replace tires older than 5–6 years, even if they look fine.
4. Monitor Air Pressure: Ensure tires are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure, especially in summer when heat can cause overinflation.

Tire Safety Checklist

Why Summer Makes Tires Riskier?

Heat puts extra stress on tires, causing:

• Faster Wear: High temperatures degrade rubber, reducing tire life.
• Increased Blowout Risk: Heat expands air inside tires, which can lead to bursts if tires are already worn.
• Reduced Traction: Worn tires lose grip, especially on hot or wet roads, increasing skidding risks.

Tips to Stay Safe on UAE Roads

Here are some practical tips to keep your tires in top condition and stay safe on UAE roads:

1. Schedule Regular Inspections: Visit a trusted mechanic or tire shop every 6 months or after 10,000 km to check tire condition.
2. Rotate Tires: Rotate tires every 5,000–8,000 km to ensure even wear and extend their lifespan.
3. Choose Quality Tires: Invest in high-quality tires suited for the UAE’s climate. Look for brands with good heat resistance or buy online from PitStopArabia.
4. Avoid Overloading: Excess weight strains tires, increasing wear and blowout risks. Stick to your vehicle’s load limit.
5. Drive Cautiously: Avoid sudden braking or sharp turns, which can wear out tires faster and cause accidents.

Where to Get Tires Checked in Abu Dhabi?

Many service centers in Abu Dhabi offer tire inspections and replacements. Some reputable options include:

• ADNOC Auto Service Centers: Offer tire checks, balancing, and replacements.
• Tyre Express: Provides mobile tire repair and replacement services across the UAE.
• Zdegree: Specializes in tire maintenance and offers premium tire brands.

The Role of Awareness Campaigns

Abu Dhabi Police’s “Safe Summer” and “Summer Without Accidents” campaigns, in collaboration with the Monitoring and Control Center, aim to educate drivers about tire safety. The “Your Comment” initiative encourages public feedback to improve road safety measures. 

These campaigns emphasize the importance of proactive tire maintenance to reduce accidents, especially during summer.

How to Replace Worn-Out Tires?

If your tires are worn out, replace them immediately. Here’s a quick guide:

1. Identify the Right Tires: Check your vehicle manual for the correct tire size and type.
2. Compare Prices: Shop around for competitive prices. In the UAE, tire prices range from Dh150–Dh600 per tire, depending on the brand and size.
3. Professional Installation: Have tires installed by a certified mechanic to ensure proper fitting and balancing.
4. Dispose of Old Tires: Many service centers in Abu Dhabi offer tire recycling to dispose of old tires responsibly.

Average Tire Prices in the UAE (2025)

FAQs

1. Why are worn-out tires dangerous in the UAE?

Worn-out tires lose grip and are prone to blowouts, especially in the UAE’s high summer temperatures (often above 40°C). This can cause accidents, as highlighted by Abu Dhabi Police in their “Safe Summer” campaign videos showing crashes due to tire failures.

2. What are the penalties for driving with unfit tires in the UAE?

Under Article 82 of the UAE Traffic Law, driving with worn-out or unfit tires results in:

• Fine: Dh500
• Black Points: 4
• Vehicle Impoundment: 7 days

3. How can I check if my tires are safe?

Abu Dhabi Police recommend:

• Inspect for Damage: Look for cracks, cuts, or bulges.
• Check Tread Depth: Use a Dh1 coin; if the outer band is visible, replace the tire.
• Verify Expiry Date: Check the sidewall for a four-digit code (e.g., 0323 = March 2023). Replace tires older than 5–6 years.
• Monitor Air Pressure: Ensure it matches the manufacturer’s recommended PSI.

4. How often should I inspect my tires in the UAE?

Inspect tires every 6 months or after 10,000 km. During summer, check monthly due to heat-related wear. Rotate tires every 5,000–8,000 km for even wear.

5. What is the minimum legal tread depth in the UAE?

The minimum legal tread depth is 1.6 mm. Tires with less tread are considered unfit and can lead to fines and accidents.

6. How does UAE’s summer heat affect tires?

High temperatures (up to 45°C) cause:

• Faster rubber degradation reduces tire life.
• Increased risk of blowouts due to air expansion.
• Reduced traction on hot or wet roads increases skidding risks.