Dubai Car Guides

How to Check Your Car Lights Are Working in UAE: A Safety Guide

5 Jul 2026 2 min read

Why Checking Car Lights Matters in UAE

In UAE, driving with faulty lights is a traffic offence that can result in fines. More importantly, working lights are critical for your safety and the safety of other road users, especially during night driving on UAE highways and in areas with heavy traffic.

How to Check Your Car Headlights

Park your vehicle facing a wall or garage door at close range. Turn on your headlights and check that both low beam and high beam lights illuminate. Walk around the front and verify both sides are working and pointing at the same height. If one light is dimmer than the other, the bulb may be nearing the end of its life. Check this monthly.

How to Check Brake Lights and Indicator Lights

Brake lights are harder to check alone. Ask a helper to stand behind the vehicle while you press the brake pedal. Alternatively, reverse close to a wall or reflective surface and observe the reflection. Check indicator lights by activating each side and walking around the vehicle. Hazard lights test all four indicators at once. Check these monthly.

Tail Lights, Reverse Lights, and Number Plate Lights

Switch on your headlights and walk to the rear to verify both tail lights glow red. Engage reverse gear briefly to check reverse lights. Number plate lights ensure your plate is visible at night. All of these are required by UAE traffic law to be functioning at all times.

What to Do If a Car Light Is Not Working in UAE

If you find a light that is not working, arrange for a headlight or bulb replacement as soon as possible. GarageBuddy can connect you with certified garages across UAE that offer same-day headlight bulb and tail light replacement at affordable prices.

ℹ️

For informational purposes only. Prices, repair times and recommendations in this article are general estimates for the UAE market and may vary by vehicle, garage and location. Always get a written quote from a qualified mechanic before authorising work. Full disclaimer →

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