Al-Shalfan calls for reform in commercial signage regulations

• With the growing number of commercial activities in various buildings, identification advertisements have also increased, often disregarding architectural and aesthetic considerations, stated Engineer Sharifa Al-Shalfan, the Municipal Council member.

Engineer Sharifa Al-Shalfan, the Municipal Council member, proposed an amendment to the identification declarations clause in the advertising regulation, Al Rai newspaper reported.

In her proposal, Al-Shalfan stated that architectural identity is a key element of urban development, reflecting the country’s cultural and aesthetic values. However, with the growing number of commercial activities in various buildings, identification advertisements have also increased, often disregarding architectural and aesthetic considerations.

She added that technological advancements and social media have made it easier to locate establishments, reducing the need for excessive signage. To enhance visual appeal and minimize clutter, she proposed replacing paragraph (b) regarding storefront advertisements in multi-story buildings and paragraph (d) concerning advertisements for upper-floor units.

She proposed replacing the facade identification declarations in Article 17 of Ministerial Decree No. (599/2023) regarding the declaration list with the following:

1. Advertisements may be placed only on the ground floor within the property limits, without exceeding the permitted height.
2. Advertisements may be placed on the fence without protrusion and must not exceed the fence’s height or boundaries.
3. Lighting must be self-static and constant.
4. Advertisements may be placed on the glass facade of the ground floor, provided they do not obstruct visibility.