UAE Traffic Fines 2025: What Every Driver Must Know
Driving in the UAE comes with strict rules and some of the heaviest traffic fines in the world. Whether you are a new resident, a tourist, or a long-time expat, understanding the penalty system is essential — one mistake can cost you thousands of dirhams, black points on your licence, or even vehicle impoundment.
This guide covers everything you need to know about UAE traffic fines in 2025.
How the UAE Traffic Fine System Works
Traffic fines in the UAE are issued by individual emirate police authorities:
- Dubai — Dubai Police / Roads and Transport Authority (RTA)
- Abu Dhabi — Abu Dhabi Police
- Sharjah, Ajman, RAK, Fujairah, UAQ — respective emirate police
Fines vary slightly between emirates, but federal minimums apply across the country. Most violations also carry black points — accumulate 24 in a year and your licence is suspended for 3 months.
Speed Limit Fines — The Most Common Violation
Speeding is the single most ticketed offence on UAE roads. Cameras operate 24/7 on all major highways.
| Excess Speed | Fine (AED) | Black Points |
|---|---|---|
| 1–20 km/h over limit | 300 | 0 |
| 21–30 km/h over limit | 600 | 3 |
| 31–40 km/h over limit | 700 | 4 |
| 41–50 km/h over limit | 1,000 | 6 |
| 51–60 km/h over limit | 1,500 | 6 + vehicle impound |
| 61–80 km/h over limit | 2,000 | 12 + vehicle impound |
| 80+ km/h over limit | 3,000 | 23 + vehicle impound |
Note: Most UAE speed cameras allow a 20 km/h tolerance buffer, but this is not a legal right — it can be removed at any time.
Red Light & Stop Sign Violations
Running a red light in the UAE carries a minimum fine of AED 1,000 and 12 black points — half of the yearly limit in a single incident. Many intersections use cameras that capture violations automatically.
Stop sign violations carry AED 500 and 4 black points.
Mobile Phone Use While Driving
Using a handheld mobile phone while driving is penalised at AED 800 and 4 black points. This includes holding the phone to your ear, typing, or scrolling. Hands-free kits are legal.
Seatbelt & Child Safety Violations
- Driver not wearing seatbelt: AED 400 + 4 black points
- Passenger not wearing seatbelt: AED 400
- Child not in approved car seat: AED 400 per child
Dangerous Driving Offences
The most serious driving offences carry fines of up to AED 50,000 and vehicle confiscation for up to 60 days:
- Street racing / drifting: AED 50,000 + 23 black points + vehicle impoundment
- Driving under the influence: Zero-tolerance policy. Even trace amounts of alcohol result in arrest, vehicle confiscation, and criminal prosecution
- Driving against traffic: AED 3,000 + 23 black points + 60-day impoundment
How to Check & Pay UAE Traffic Fines
You can check your fines through:
- Dubai: Dubai Police app or RTA website
- Abu Dhabi: Abu Dhabi Police app or TAMM platform
- All Emirates: MOI UAE app
Fines can be paid online, at police stations, or at authorised payment kiosks. Unpaid fines accumulate and will block your vehicle registration renewal.
How to Avoid UAE Traffic Fines
- Observe posted speed limits — do not rely on the tolerance buffer
- Never use your phone while driving — invest in a car mount or Bluetooth kit
- Always wear your seatbelt and ensure all passengers do too
- Keep a safe following distance — tailgating is a fineable offence
- Check your fines regularly — do not let them accumulate before renewal time
Disclaimer
Fine amounts are based on publicly available information and may change. Always verify current penalties with the relevant UAE authority before making any decisions.
