What Are Road Traffic Fines in Dubai and Why Should You Know Them?
In Dubai, the traffic fine system is a critical component of road safety, strictly enforced for both residents and tourists. The regulations are designed to minimize accidents and ensure smooth traffic flow. Fines cover a wide spectrum of violations, from minor parking errors costing around 150 AED to severe offenses like reckless driving, which can result in penalties up to 50,000 AED. Understanding these rules helps you avoid unexpected costs and legal complications.
In my experience with car rentals in Dubai, many travelers are caught off guard by the efficiency of the monitoring system, which uses a dense network of cameras and patrols. For instance, speeding is the most common offense, accounting for 45% of all fines issued according to Dubai Police reports. A tourist I once assisted received a 1,000 AED fine for crossing a red light, a mistake that nearly caused him to miss his flight. This Dubai traffic fines explained guide will help you navigate the system confidently.
Expert Advice from Rentico💯
"According to the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), the system's primary goal is to reduce accident rates and save lives." – RTA Official Website
Basic Types of Traffic Fines in Dubai: Categories of Traffic Violations
To provide clarity, all traffic violations in Dubai are grouped into distinct categories. Each category details specific traffic fine types in Dubai, outlining the financial penalty, the number of black points added to a license, and any additional consequences, such as vehicle confiscation.
Speeding Violations
| Violation (Exceedance in km/h) | Fine (AED) | Black Points | Additional Penalty (Vehicle Confiscation) |
| Exceeding by up to 20 km/h | 300 | 0 | None |
| Exceeding by up to 30 km/h | 600 | 6 | None |
| Exceeding by up to 40 km/h | 700 | 12 | None |
| Exceeding by up to 50 km/h | 1,000 | 12 | None |
| Exceeding by up to 60 km/h | 2,000 | 12 | 30 days |
| Exceeding by more than 60 km/h | 3,000 | 23 | 60 days |
Parking and Stopping Violations
| Violation Type | Fine (AED) | Black Points |
| Parking in a prohibited area | 500 | 3 |
| Parking on a sidewalk | 400 | 0 |
| Blocking traffic flow | 500 | 6 |
| Parking in a spot for people with disabilities | 1,000 | 6 |
| Failure to pay parking fee | 150 | 0 |
Red Light and Lane Discipline Violations
| Violation | Fine (AED) | Black Points | Confiscation Period |
| Running a red light | 1,000 | 12 | 30 days |
| Making a sudden lane change | 1,000 | 4 | None |
| Improper overtaking | 600 | 6 | None |
| Driving against the flow of traffic | 600 | 4 | 7 days |
Reckless and Distracted Driving Violations
| Violation | Fine (AED) | Black Points |
| Using a mobile phone while driving | 800 | 4 |
| Not wearing a seatbelt (driver or passengers) | 400 | 4 |
| Reckless driving that endangers others | 2,000 | 23 |
| Driving while distracted by anything inside the car | 400 | 4 |
Vehicle Registration and Technical Fines
- Driving with an expired registration (Mulkiya): 500 AED, 4 black points, 7-day confiscation.
- Driving with unreadable license plates: 400 AED, 3 black points.
- Operating a vehicle with faulty lights or brakes: 400 AED, 6 black points.
- Driving with worn or damaged tires: 500 AED, 4 black points, 7-day confiscation.
- Driving without valid insurance: 500 AED, 4 black points, 7-day confiscation.
How to Check Traffic Fines in Dubai: 3 Official Ways
You will typically need your vehicle’s plate number, your Traffic File Number (T.C. No.), or your driver’s license number. It’s wise to check regularly, as fines on rented vehicles can sometimes take 3-4 weeks to appear in the system.
Way 1: Through the Dubai Police Official Website or App
Visit www.dubaipolice.gov.ae, select “Traffic Services,” and enter plate number or T.C. No.
Way 2: On the RTA Portal
Login at www.rta.ae → fines section → enter vehicle details.
Way 3: Through Sahl Kiosks
Located in malls and centers across Dubai, Sahl kiosks allow 24/7 check and print of fines using Emirates ID or plate details.
How to Pay Traffic Fines in Dubai: Step-by-Step Instructions
Online Payment (Dubai Police, RTA)
Log in, select fines, pay via debit/credit card, and receive digital receipt immediately.
Payment Through Mobile Apps
The Dubai Police and RTA Dubai Drive apps allow checking and paying fines directly, with push notifications for new violations.
Payment at Customer Service Centers
Visit RTA Customer Happiness Centers or Smart Police Stations, present ID and fine details, and pay by card or cash.
How the Black Points System Works in Dubai
Each violation adds points to your profile. 24 points in 12 months = license suspension.
How to Dispute a Traffic Fine in Dubai: Procedure and Chances of Success
Submit appeal on Dubai Police portal within 30 days with strong evidence (photo/dashcam).
Fines for Tourists and on Rented Cars: What You Need to Know
Rental companies are notified directly, charge the driver’s credit card accordingly.
Expert Advice from Rentico💯
Before returning a rented car at the airport, perform a quick online check for fines using the vehicle's plate number.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How Much Time Is Given to Pay a Fine in Dubai?
30 days, with some discounts for early payment.
Can I Get a Discount on Traffic Fines?
Yes, ~25% if paid quickly.
What Happens If I Don’t Pay Traffic Fines in Dubai?
Your Mulkiya renewal is blocked, late fees apply, and in severe cases – impoundment or travel restrictions.
Do Fine Points Transfer to My Home Country License If I’m a Tourist?
No, but unpaid financial fines affect UAE re-entry and car rental later.
How Do I Check If My Car Was Impounded for Violations?
Check by entering plate number on Dubai Police app or website.
See our other parking guides:
How to Check and Pay Dubai Police Fines Online
Complete Guide to Fees, Payment, and Changes by RTA
Dubai Parking: Free Days and RTA Schedule
Parking in Dubai 2025: Complete Guide to Fees, Payment, and Changes by RTA
