Dubai Police warn motorists over unpaid traffic fines

Dubai: Dubai Police have urged motorists to review their traffic records and settle outstanding fines promptly, warning that accumulated violations could lead to vehicle impoundment, legal action and disruption of vehicle-related transactions.Brigadier Juma Salem bin Suwaidan, Director of the General Department of Traffic at Dubai Police, said field teams impounded 497 vehicles during inspection campaigns conducted in the first half of 2026 due to accumulated traffic violations.Brigadier bin Suwaidan revealed that fines on some vehicles had reached tens of thousands of dirhams, while some owners had failed to renew their vehicle registrations for several years.Brigadier bin Suwaidan said the accumulation of violations and failure to renew licences reflect irresponsible behaviour and disregard for traffic regulations designed to protect lives and property.He warned that driving an unregistered vehicle poses additional risks, particularly if it has not undergone a technical inspection to confirm its roadworthiness.According to Dubai Police, traffic fines are intended to deter dangerous driving behaviour and promote compliance with traffic laws rather than generate revenue.Brigadier bin Suwaidan stressed that repeated violations increase the risk of accidents, injuries, fatalities and property damage.He said Dubai Police would continue inspection campaigns targeting wanted vehicles and motorists with accumulated fines, and would take legal action against violators.The traffic directorate uses smart systems and advanced technologies to identify wanted vehicles and track their locations on roads, in public parking areas and other locations, helping authorities act quickly.Before taking enforcement action, Dubai Police contact vehicle owners through phone calls, text messages and emails, urging them to clear fines and regularise their vehicle status.Brigadier bin Suwaidan also called on motorists to keep their contact details updated with Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) to ensure they receive notifications related to fines and vehicle registrations.He urged drivers to check their traffic records regularly and avoid allowing fines to accumulate.Dubai Police provide several channels for checking and paying fines, including:Dubai Police Smart AppDubai Police websiteSelf-service kiosksSmart Police Stations (SPS)Dubai Police also offer instalment options through the Dubai Police app, the Tabby service and interest-free payment plans in cooperation with approved partners.Brigadier bin Suwaidan said these options are designed to help motorists manage their financial obligations and avoid the legal and financial consequences of delayed payments.He concluded by urging drivers to make traffic compliance a permanent habit, stressing that avoiding violations remains the best way to protect lives, property and road safety across Dubai.