In a significant move to protect car buyers in the UAE, authorities have established strict regulations against the sale of defective vehicles. Under Federal Law No. 15 of 2020 on Consumer Protection (amended by Federal Decree-Law No. 5 of 2023), sellers face substantial penalties for misrepresenting vehicle conditions.
Key Legal Protections for Car Buyers
The UAE’s consumer protection framework provides several safeguards for car buyers:
- Accurate Description Requirement
- Sellers must provide accurate vehicle descriptions
- False or misleading advertisements are prohibited
- All defects must be clearly disclosed
- Mandatory Disclosure Rules According to Article 7 of Cabinet Decision No. 66 of 2023, sellers must:
- Clearly advertise the condition of used vehicles
- Document the vehicle’s state in the sales contract
- Provide accurate information on invoices
- Warranty Obligations
- Sellers offering warranties must meet specific requirements
- Warranty terms must be clearly stated
- Service obligations during the warranty period are legally binding
Financial Penalties and Enforcement
The UAE Ministry of Economy has implemented strict penalties:
- Maximum fine of Dh100,000 for selling defective used vehicles
- Penalties apply to both individual sellers and dealerships
- Enforcement through competent authorities in each emirate
Steps for Buyers Facing Issues
If you’ve purchased a defective vehicle:
- Document all technical issues
- Gather evidence of misrepresentation
- Contact the seller formally
- File a complaint with the competent authority
- Seek compensation under Article 24(1) of the Consumer Law
Consumer Rights Under UAE Law
The legislation specifically protects against:
- Incorrect vehicle data
- Misleading advertisements
- False impressions about vehicle condition
- Misrepresentation of warranty terms
How to File a Complaint
Affected buyers can:
- Approach the UAE Ministry of Economy
- Contact the competent authority in their emirate
- Submit documentation of the vehicle’s issues
- Present proof of purchase and communication with the seller
Protection Against Deceptive Practices
Article 8 of Cabinet Decision No. 66 specifically guards against misrepresentation of:
- Vehicle specifications
- Manufacturing details
- Service conditions
- Warranty terms
- Quality certifications
Take action if you’ve purchased a defective vehicle. UAE consumer protection laws offer strong legal backing for buyers seeking resolution through official channels.
Note: For the most current legal advice, consult with a qualified legal professional or contact the UAE Ministry of Economy directly.





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