Saudi Gazette report
JEDDAH — With the searing heat of summer fast approaching, car owners are rushing to get the windows of their vehicles tinted and save themselves from the damaging effect of UV rays, increase air-conditioning efficiency, lessen eye fatigue and protect upholstery. Some owners, however, get their windows heavily tinted, something which is both illegal and dangerous as dark tint can significantly reduce visibility. Despite the ban, car detailing stores all over the Kingdom continue to offer dark tints to drivers, Al-Riyadh daily reported.
Tinted windows are becoming increasingly popular with drivers everywhere, and whether someone wants tinted windows for the additional privacy they offer, the protection they provide from the blazing heat and harmful UV rays, or simply the sleek, polished look they give to the car, drivers can use any type of tint as long as it doesn’t completely block out light. The traffic police fines drivers that have heavily-tinted vehicles.
Faisal Al-Salman, a Saudi citizen, said there is little awareness among the youth on the negative impact of heavily-tinted car windows.
“Parents and teachers must discourage youths from using dark tint because such cars are more likely to be involved in an accident. Programs and lectures must be held at schools so young men understand the dangers involved in heavily tinting car windows,” he said.
Faisal Mahanshi said tinting car windows has both advantages and disadvantages. “Its merits include protecting occupants from UV rays and helping women avoid harassment while the demerits include increased likelihood of getting away with crimes like smuggling illegal substances and kidnapping,” he said. According to Muhammad Al-Jomaia, violators are only given a SR150 fine, an amount he believes should be significantly increased to deter repeat offenders. He also said the concerned authorities are not inspecting car detailing stores and confiscating dark tint film.
“Heavily-tinted windows are dangerous as the driver cannot see the road in front of or behind him and this sometimes causes accidents. A SR150 fine does not deter people from putting dark tint on their windows,” he said.
Abdul Shukoor works at a car detailing store. He said although there is a strong demand for light, medium and dark tints, there has been an increase in demand for dark and non-transparent tints.
“There is no ban on the sale of any type of tint film and stores face no inspections from the traffic authorities or other government authorities. It’s only the drivers that sometimes get into trouble,” he said.
