Dubai Shop Sign Rules 2026: DET Shopfront Signage Guide

Dubai now checks shop signs more closely. In May 2026 the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) reminded every shop owner of the shopfront sign rules, and its teams are inspecting shopfronts across the city. If you are opening a shop, changing your trade name or replacing an old sign, this guide explains what the rules say in simple words and how Al Burooj Advertising can handle the DET permit for you.

Who approves shop signs in Dubai?

For a normal shop on the Dubai mainland, DET issues the trade name sign permit and inspects shopfronts. The design rules come from Dubai’s Outdoor Advertising Manual, which the RTA and Dubai Municipality introduced in 2024. Section 3.4 of the manual covers shopfront signs.

Some areas follow their own authority. Shops in free zones and special development zones may go through Trakhees or the Dubai Development Authority (DDA). Malls and many buildings also have their own sign rules, so you usually need a no objection letter (NOC) from the landlord or developer as well.

The 2026 shopfront sign rules

1. One trade name only. Each shop can show one trade name on its front. Extra brand names or ads on the same shopfront are not allowed.
2. Horizontal signs only. Vertical signs are not allowed.
3. Arabic above English. The Arabic name goes on top and the English name below it. The Arabic must be a correct translation of the name on your trade licence.
4. Size must suit the shopfront. The sign should match the height and width of the front, with no oversized height, width or thickness.
5. Controlled lighting. Brightness must stay within the allowed level, and bright white backgrounds are not allowed.
6. Static signs only. No video, moving images or animated content on the trade name sign.
7. One side projection. A projecting sign can stick out from one side only.
8. No signs on balconies or upper floors. Trade name signs are not allowed on balconies, or on the outside of offices, clinics and shops above ground level.

What this means for your new sign

Many older Dubai signs break at least one of these rules: a vertical sign, a white lightbox face, two brand names, or English above Arabic. If you are making a new sign, plan it around the rules from the start. It costs far less to get the design right before fabrication than to remake a sign after an inspection.

• Choose 3D letters or a lightbox with a coloured or dark background instead of plain bright white.
• Put the Arabic and English names in one horizontal layout, Arabic on top.
• Show only the trade name from your licence. Put offers and extra messages inside the shop or on approved window graphics.
• Check the landlord’s sign criteria for size, position and lighting before you approve the artwork.

What you need for a sign permit

• A copy of your trade licence, with the exact trade name
• The landlord or developer NOC, if the building needs one
• A sign drawing with size, materials, lighting and fixing method
• A photo of the shopfront showing where the sign will go
• The Arabic and English wording of the sign

We handle the DET permit for you

Al Burooj Advertising designs and makes shop signs in Al Quoz, Dubai, and we handle the DET sign permit for our customers. We prepare the drawing, check the design against the current rules and submit the application. The authority makes the final decision, but a correct drawing gives your sign the best start.

Send us your trade licence, a shopfront photo and your logo on WhatsApp, call +971 52 673 4053, or request a quote. You can also read more about our signage plans and permit support, or compare 3D illuminated letters and storefront signage.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a permit for a shop sign in Dubai?

Yes. A trade name sign on a mainland shopfront needs a DET permit. Free zone and special area shops may need approval from Trakhees, DDA or the zone operator instead, and many buildings also need a landlord NOC.

Can my sign be English only?

No. Shopfront trade name signs need Arabic and English, with the Arabic above the English.

Can I use a white lightbox?

Bright white backgrounds are not allowed under the current rules. A coloured or dark face, or 3D letters on the fascia, is a safer choice.

Can I show two brand names on one shop?

No. Each shopfront can show one trade name only.

Can a digital screen be my shop sign?

No. The trade name sign must be static. Video and moving content are not allowed on it.

Sources: Dubai Media Office, 12 May 2026; Khaleej Times, 13 May 2026; Dubai Outdoor Advertising Manual (2024). Rules can change, so we confirm the current requirements for every project.