Pr 402- Abu Dhabi Lighting | Manual

Before PR 402, lighting projects in Abu Dhabi often suffered from inconsistent illumination, excessive energy use, and light pollution. The manual was introduced to:

| Term | Definition | |------|-------------| | U0 | Minimum illuminance divided by average illuminance | | TI | Threshold Increment (measure of disability glare) | | FCO | Full Cut-Off – zero candela at or above 90° | | CCT | Correlated Color Temperature |


As of 2025, Abu Dhabi Municipality is actively drafting PR 402 Version 4.0. Expected changes include:

Staying ahead of these updates is critical for any lighting professional operating in the region. pr 402- abu dhabi lighting manual


Before the standardization of PR 402, lighting design could be sporadic—some areas were overlit, creating light trespass, while others were dim and unsafe. PR 402 brings consistency.

By adhering to this manual, Abu Dhabi is curating a nighttime identity that is sophisticated and sustainable. It protects the dark skies of the desert, reduces the carbon footprint of the emirate’s infrastructure, and ensures that the public realm is accessible and safe 24 hours a day.

PR 402 is not merely a manual; it is a statement of urban quality. For lighting designers, failing PR 402 means failing the project. For Abu Dhabi, it ensures that as the city glows, the stars remain visible, wildlife remains undisturbed, and the built environment looks serene rather than chaotic. Any luminaire specifier, electrical engineer, or master developer working in the Emirate must treat PR 402 as the binding law of light—comprehensive, exacting, and non-negotiable. Before PR 402, lighting projects in Abu Dhabi


Last updated: Aligns with DMT Circular No. 12/2023 (Revision 4.0 of PR 402).


The manual divides Abu Dhabi into Lighting Zones (LZ0 to LZ4), similar to ILP guidance but tailored locally:

| Zone | Name | Description | Max Illuminance (Pedestrian) | |------|------|-------------|------------------------------| | LZ0 | Protected | Dark sky reserves, ecological sanctuaries | 1 lux | | LZ1 | Rural | Low-density villages, desert roads | 5 lux | | LZ2 | Suburban | Residential communities, local parks | 10 lux | | LZ3 | Urban | Commercial centers, mixed-use boulevards | 20 lux | | LZ4 | High-Activity | Downtown Abu Dhabi, Corniche, major squares | Up to 50 lux | As of 2025, Abu Dhabi Municipality is actively

Each zone has dedicated luminaire types, mounting heights, and shielding requirements.


The manual partitions Abu Dhabi into strict lighting zones, dictating allowable illuminance: