A new advertising permit system will come into effect in Al Dhaid starting June 2, as the municipality seeks to curb unregulated outdoor advertising and enhance the city’s visual appeal.
Under the new regulations, all outdoor advertisements — including billboards, banners, and signage — must be pre-approved through an official permit process. Any advertisements placed on public property without municipal approval will be removed as part of intensified inspection campaigns.
The move is part of a broader municipal strategy aimed at improving the overall urban landscape and preventing advertising practices that contribute to visual clutter or fail to meet design standards.
Targeting Aesthetic Violations and Unlicensed Displays
According to Hamad Rashid Al Tunaiji, Director of Al Dhaid Municipality, the initiative addresses growing concerns over unlicensed ads that negatively affect the city’s image.
“Advertisements with poor design, clashing colors, or unclear language harm the city’s identity and make public spaces appear unorganized,” Al Tunaiji said. “Our aim is to create a more cohesive and welcoming environment for both residents and visitors.”
The municipality emphasized that many existing ads do not adhere to technical or aesthetic requirements and contribute to what officials describe as a “disordered streetscape.” The new system is designed to standardize advertising formats and uphold consistent quality across public areas.
Permit Application and Enforcement
Businesses intending to place outdoor advertisements will now be required to submit permit applications directly to the municipality. A dedicated team has been formed to manage the approval process and ensure swift evaluations.
In addition to application oversight, the municipality will launch regular inspection campaigns to identify and remove any unauthorized signage. Violators may face penalties or removal of materials without prior notice.
Officials confirmed that only advertisements meeting predefined technical, linguistic, and visual criteria will be approved.
The new system reflects growing regulatory attention across the UAE toward urban aesthetics and public messaging, aligning with Sharjah’s wider vision of organized and community-friendly development.
