Standard Tyres vs Heat-Resitant Tyres: Which Is Safer for UAE Roads?

Standard Tyres vs Heat-Resitant Tyres: Which Is Safer for UAE Roads?

The tyres of your vehicle are where your vehicle touches the road and the roads in UAE can be really hot. The temperatures here go above 45 degree C and that can make your tyres face a lot of brunt. That is why choosing the right tyres is essential to make it safe for you and everyone else sharing the road. 

Well, that brings us to the comparison between the standard tyres and heat resistant tyres. This blog will make an attempt at letting you understand the difference between the two types of tyres and find which is safe for UAE roads. 

What Are Heat-Resistant Tyres?

Heat-resistant tyres, also commonly referred to as summer tyres or high-temperature-rated tyres, are specifically designed for hot climates like the UAE, where both air and road surface temperatures rise significantly.

Unlike standard tyres, these tyres are engineered to handle prolonged exposure to extreme heat without losing their structure or performance.

Key Features of Heat-Resistant Tyres

These tyres include specific design elements that make them more suitable for UAE driving conditions:

• Advanced heat-tolerant rubber compounds that resist softening in high temperatures
   
• Reinforced sidewalls that improve strength and reduce the risk of deformation
   
• Optimized tread patterns designed for better performance on hot asphalt
   
• Higher temperature ratings, often marked as UTQG “A” or above
   

UTQG stands for Uniform Tire Quality Grade, a system that helps measure a tyre’s performance in terms of temperature resistance, treadwear, and traction.

What Are Standard Tyres?

Standard tyres, also known as all-season tyres or economy tyres, are designed for regions with moderate weather conditions. They offer balanced performance across wet roads, dry surfaces, and mildly cool temperatures, making them suitable for everyday driving in non-extreme climates.

While standard tyres are widely used and often come as factory-fitted tyres on many vehicles, they may not always perform optimally in extremely hot environments like the UAE.

Key Features of Standard Tyres

Standard tyres typically feature:

• A medium rubber compound that balances grip and durability
   
• Performance suited for a wide range of moderate temperatures
   
• A cost-effective option compared to specialized tyres
   
• Common use as original equipment (factory-fitted tyres) on many vehicles
   

UAE Climate & Road Conditions: A Real Challenge for Tyres

The UAE road conditions can be very difficult to handle. Extreme heat can make the asphalt to expand and thus create uneven surfaces. Sand particles from sandstorms wear tyres prematurely and reduce grip. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 45°C, accelerating rubber degradation and increasing internal tyre pressure.

The thermal contrast between air-conditioned vehicles and scorching heat creates constant stress on tyres. Sudden braking can result in unreliable response in terms of braking. These conditions demand that you should be careful enough in choosing the right type of tyres. 

What Are Standard Tyres and Where Do They Work Best?

Standard tyres are designed for the moderate climates that have a standard year round temperature. They're built for comfort and cost-effectiveness in environments where extreme temperatures aren't constant factors.

However, when it comes to the relentless heat in UAE, the standard tyres may not perform as expected. The rubber components may soften excessively when the temperatures go above 40 degree C. It can reduce the structural integrity of the tyres. 

UAE drivers typically need to replace standard tyres every 3-4 years or 40,000-50,000 kilometers. This is significantly sooner than in cooler climates.

What Are Heat-Resistant Tyres and Why Are They Different?

The heat resistant tyres are designed specifically for the high temperatures. Their rubber compounds contain specialized polymers and additives maintaining structural integrity even at extreme temperatures. They also have reinforced sidewalls for handling thermal stress more effectively and efficiently. 

These tyres resist oxidation far better than standard options. In essence, the heat resistant tyres are customised for the hot weather conditions. 

Performance Comparison: Heat, Grip & Braking on UAE Roads

Let us now compare the two types of tyres based on a few key parameters. 

• Heat tolerance 

The heat resistant tyres can retain structural integrity even at temperatures as high as 60 degree C. Standard tyres may show deterioration at temperatures even at 45 degree C. 

• Grip and traction

Heat resistant tyres are capable of 15 to 20% better grip on hot surfaces than the standard tyres. This becomes quite critical when you need to brake suddenly. That way, these tyres provide better safety. 

• Braking efficiency

Standard tyres may lose 30% of their braking efficiency when they get heated. However, heat resistant tyres can maintain the braking efficiency at 95% or more even at higher temperatures. 

• High speed stability

Heat resistant tyres retain the stability even at speeds of up to 120 to 140 km per hour on highways. In contrast, standard tyres may not work that efficiently on hot roads. 

Safety Risks: Blowouts, Wear & Loss of Control in Summer

Sudden blowouts can be a serious concern and may be a common case on hot roads. This can result is issues like loss of vehicle control, rollovers, and multi-vehicle collisions. This should be one of the serious safety concerns on a hot road. 

Standard tyres reach high and accelerated wear on hot surfaces. It can make them reach unsafe tread depths. It can cause severe safety concerns like reduced water evacuation during unexpected rain and increasing hydroplaning risk. 

Tyre Lifespan & Cost: Short-Term Savings vs Long-Term Safety

Standard tyres would cost 20 to 30% less than the heat resistant tyres. However, they need replacement once every 40,000-50,000 kilometers in UAE conditions. In contrast, heat resistant tyres can handle up to 60,000-80,000 kilometers. That should make the high cost of heat resistant tyres quite practical. 

When you consider the other risks such as potential accident costs, vehicle damage, and insurance implications, the heat-resistant tyres justify their high price. They can actually be a long term investment option. 

if you are looking for tyre inspection services in Dubai for your premium car , contact Fasttrack Emarat now .

City Driving vs Highway Driving in Dubai

How do the standard and heat resistant tyres perform in terms of city and highway driving in Dubai?

City Driving: In Dubai's stop-and-go traffic, heat-resistant tyres maintain grip during frequent braking and reduce loss-of-traction risks during sudden maneuvers. They remain cooler, reducing fuel consumption in urban conditions.

Highway Driving: On inter-emirate highways, heat-resistant tyres provide stability and consistent performance needed for sustained high-speed driving. They also resist cumulative thermal damage that damages standard tyres over long distances.

Which Tyres Are Safer for UAE Roads? (Expert Verdict)

By every standard, the heat resistant tyres are the perfect choice in UAE. They are specifically designed for the hot weather. They offer superior performance in extreme heat, last longer, and significantly reduce dangerous situations. 

Recommended if you:

• Drive long distances on highways
• Travel frequently during the summer months
• Carry heavy loads
• Own SUVs or high-performance vehicles

In fact, using standard tyres in the UAE weather is never recommended. It can result in frequent replacement costs. They can also invite blowouts and loss of control. The slightly higher initial cost of heat resistant tyres is offset by longer lifespan, better fuel efficiency, and your safety.

How Fasttrack Emarat Helps You Stay Tyre-Safe?

At Fasttrack Emarat, we understand UAE weather conditions from close quarters. Our expert technicians assess your current tyres and recommend the best heat-resistant options for your vehicle and driving habits.

Don't compromise on your tyres. Visit any of our 28 branches across the UAE today. Our qualified technicians deliver transparent pricing, genuine parts, and expert guidance to keep you safe. Your safety is our priority.

Reach our team at 800 FASTTRACK (800 32787225), or call us on +971 4 379 5012 or +971 54 305 8631. You can also schedule your service through our website or visit our website for more details.