What PPF is
PPF, paint protection film, is a layer of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) fitted over your car's paint, panel by panel. Films on Garagat are around 8 to 8.5 mil thick, about 0.2 mm. That sounds thin until you see it next to the paint it protects.
Approximate, drawn to one scale; 1 µm is a thousandth of a millimetre. PPF 150–200 µm and ceramic coating 1–2 µm as compared by ArabWheels; factory paint about 0.1 mm in total.
The film is clear on most cars, so the paint looks the same, just glossier. It is cut to each panel's shape, laid on with a slip solution, and the edges are tucked where the panel allows.
What PPF stops, and what ceramic coating doesn't
This is what Dubai does to paint, and which protection takes it. PPF is a physical layer you can feel; ceramic coating is a hard shine that makes washing easier. Many owners use both: film on the paint, coating on top.
Gravel from trucks on Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road and Emirates Road hits the bumper and bonnet first.
Wind-blown sand, dry wipes and rough brushes drag fine scratches into the paint.
Car parks, bags and keys. Light marks in the film's top coat close up with heat.
Acidic, and baked onto hot paint they etch a dull mark within days.
Strong sun fades paint over the years, most on red and dark colours.
How PPF heals itself
Good films have an elastic top coat. A light swirl or fine scratch only dents that top coat, and warmth lets it flow back flat. In Dubai, parking in the sun or a warm-water rinse is usually enough.
Front kit or full body PPF?
A front kit (sometimes called partial PPF) covers the parts that take the most hits on the highway. Full body PPF covers every painted panel, which suits new cars, dark colours, and owners who plan to keep the car or protect its resale value.
Front kit: front bumper, bonnet, front wings, mirrors and headlights
Full body: every painted panel
covered by film · arrow: the front of the car
Film comes in three finishes: clear gloss keeps the paint as it is, matte turns gloss paint satin, and colour PPF changes the colour while it protects. Read more in our PPF guide.
How long PPF lasts
It depends on the film line and how the car is looked after. The film maker sets the warranty, and every listing on Garagat shows it. This is what garages on Garagat list today:
From the warranty text on garages' listings on Garagat, 12 Nov 2026. One garage lists DynoShield at 10 years; the others list 12. Terms and registration come from the film maker.
A good PPF job, step by step
A full car usually stays at the garage for 3 to 5 days, according to the garages' listings. Most of that time goes into the steps before the film goes on.
- Wash and decontaminateIron, tar and sand come off so nothing gets trapped under the film.
- Correct the paintFilm shows what's underneath, so swirls are polished out first and chips are touched up.
- Cut the filmFrom the car's pattern or by hand. Ask which, and whether a blade touches your paint.
- Fit and wrap the edgesPanel by panel with a slip solution, edges tucked where the panel allows.
- Let it settleSmall water bubbles can take a few days to clear. Don't wash the car until the garage says so.
Caring for PPF in the Dubai heat
Do
- Rinse sand off before you touch the paint.
- Hand wash with a pH-neutral shampoo.
- Remove droppings and bugs the same day.
- Park in the shade when you can.
Don't
- Wipe a dusty car dry.
- Pressure-wash the film edges up close.
- Use harsh solvents or rough brushes.
- Pick at a lifted edge: ask the garage.
Questions drivers ask
What is PPF on a car?
PPF, paint protection film, is a clear or coloured polyurethane (TPU) film applied over the paint. It absorbs stone chips, sand and light scratches, and good films heal light swirls with heat.
Is PPF worth it in Dubai?
For many drivers, yes. Highway stone chips, sand and strong sun wear paint quickly in Dubai. PPF takes the damage instead of the paint and can be replaced, while a chip in the paint is permanent.
How long does PPF last?
It depends on the film and the care. Warranties on Garagat range from about 5 years to 12 years and more, depending on the brand and the film line.
What is the difference between PPF and ceramic coating?
PPF is a thick film that physically protects against chips and scratches. Ceramic coating is a thin hard layer for gloss and easy washing. They work well together: PPF first, coating on top.
Where can I get PPF in Dubai?
Compare paint protection film from trusted garages on Garagat, with the film brand, finish and warranty on every listing. You see the price for your car in the app and book with pickup and return where available.
Sources
- PPF vs Ceramic Coating in UAE: What's Better for Your Car?, ArabWheels, 16 Feb 2026
Compare trusted garages for this service, then see your exact price and book in the Garagat app.
