Weather in Dubai or other emirates, although relatively stable, can fluctuate between rain, sandstorms, and fog. Driving in harsh conditions poses a serious risk for anyone behind the wheel, so most drivers require fog lights.
If you’re driving on UAE roads and wondering, “when should I use fog lights?”, this piece is just for you.
What is the Purpose of Fog Lights?
Fog lights are specialized automotive lighting designed to improve visibility during foggy, misty, or other low-visibility driving conditions. Unlike regular headlights that can reflect off fog and create glare, fog lights are positioned lower on the vehicle and emit a wide, flat beam pattern that cuts through fog more effectively.
Fog lights produce a broad, low beam that illuminates the road surface directly in front of the vehicle without reflecting back from water droplets in the air. They're typically mounted in the front bumper area, below the headlights, and use yellow or white light. The low positioning helps because fog usually doesn't extend all the way to the ground level.
According to the toll road code, fog lights should only be used when visibility is significantly reduced (typically less than 100 meters). They should be turned off in normal conditions as they can dazzle other drivers. Many modern vehicles have automatic fog light systems that activate based on weather sensors, while others require manual operation through dashboard controls.
Types of Fog Lights
What are the two types of fog lights?
There are various types of fog lights, but halogen and LED lights are the most common.
Halogen Fog Lights
Halogen fog lights represent the traditional lighting technology that has been used in automotive applications for decades. These lights use a tungsten filament enclosed in a halogen gas-filled bulb to produce illumination. They work by passing an electric current through the filament, which heats up and produces light.
Halogen lights are easy to install and use, readily available, and are relatively affordable. However, they have a shorter lifespan (lasting between 500–1,000 hours with regular use) compared to LED fog lights (25,000–50,000 hours). They also consume more energy.
LED Fog Lights
LED (Light Emitting Diode) fog lights utilize modern automotive lighting technology, leveraging semiconductor materials to produce light when electrical current passes through them. Unlike halogen bulbs that dissipate energy as heat, LEDs convert most of their energy directly into light, making them significantly more efficient.
LED lights come in white or yellow colors and drivers can choose either depending on their preferences. However, LED fog lights are much more expensive than halogen lights and more difficult to install.
Benefits of Using Fog Lights in Cars
Weather conditions like sandstorms, fog, and rain impact visibility when driving, which can be worse at night. If you’re thinking, “is installing a fog light a good idea?” The answer is an obvious and resounding yes. It can protect you from bad road surfaces, obstacles, and curbs when driving.
Here are some benefits of driving with fog lights:
- Improved visibility in fog, mist, rain, and snow
- Better illumination of road edges and lane markings
- Enhanced safety for both driver and other road users
- Reduced eye strain during challenging driving conditions
Fog lights are a legal requirement in many countries for certain vehicle types, however, they’re not mandatory in the UAE. For drivers in the UAE, it’s recommended to have fog lights installed, especially in poor visibility conditions. So, next time when you wonder, “do you use fog lights at night in the UAE?” It’s a definite “yes,” and it’s even highly recommended for safety reasons.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are fog lights mandatory in the UAE?
No, fog lights are not mandatory in the UAE, but they’re highly recommended in poor weather conditions.
- When should fog lights be used?
Fog lights can be used in the UAE in poor visibility conditions like sandstorms, fogs, and rain.
- What color should fog lights be?
You can use either halogen or LED fog lights, and they come in yellow or white.
- Is it illegal to use fog lights in good visibility?
Yes, it is illegal to use fog lights in good visibility conditions in the UAE. Penalties can also be imposed on defaulters who use fog lights under good visibility conditions.
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