Traffic Fines Dubai: Complete Guide to Penalties & Rules

Dubai’s road safety infrastructure ranks among the most advanced globally, backed by strict enforcement through AI-powered cameras and real-time monitoring by Dubai Police and the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). In 2025, traffic regulations have been significantly tightened following the introduction of new federal decrees and municipal amendments. Key changes include increased penalties for severe violations, stricter Black Points accumulation rules, and vehicle impoundment fees reaching up to 100,000 AED for racing offenses.

For tourists and residents renting cars in Dubai, understanding these rules is critical. Unlike many jurisdictions, Dubai enforces a zero-tolerance policy for alcohol, strict speed monitoring without traditional «grace periods,» and heavy financial consequences for even minor infractions. This guide provides a complete breakdown of fines, Black Points, impoundment procedures, and practical advice for drivers—backed by official RTA and Dubai Police data for 2025.

Speed Limits and the 20 km/h Buffer Rule

Speed limits in Dubai are clearly posted on road signs (Signage Limit), but the actual enforcement threshold (Radar Limit) historically allowed a buffer of +20 km/h above the posted limit before fines were issued. However, as of 2025, this buffer is no longer universally applied. In practice, radars now trigger fines at lower thresholds, and drivers should treat posted limits as absolute.

In Abu Dhabi, no buffer has ever existed—fines are issued for exceeding the limit by even 1 km/h. This difference is crucial for drivers traveling between emirates.

On high-comfort luxury vehicles—where speed feels effortless and cabin noise is minimal—drivers often exceed limits without realizing it. Using cruise control and monitoring the speedometer actively is essential. For those planning to rent a luxury car in Dubai, these vehicles require extra vigilance due to their smooth, silent performance.

High Comfort & Speed Risk Examples

Car Model	Price 1 Day (AED)	Price 30+ Days (AED/day)	Risk Factor
Bentley Continental GT White	2,880	~1,440	High comfort masks speed
Mercedes S500 Black	1,400	~700	Smooth ride requires attention to speedometer
Rolls Royce Cullinan Black	4,290	~2,145	Silent cabin hides acceleration

Speeding Fine Ranges (2025)

Exceeding by up to 20 km/h: 300–400 AED
Exceeding by 20–40 km/h: 600–1,000 AED
Exceeding by 40–60 km/h: 1,500–2,000 AED
Exceeding by more than 60 km/h: 2,000–3,000 AED + 12 Black Points + 30-day vehicle impoundment + possible license suspension

For detailed breakdowns of speeding penalties, see our dedicated article on speeding fines in Dubai.

Common Traffic Violations & Fines List

Below is a comprehensive table of the most frequent traffic violations in Dubai, including fines, Black Points, and impoundment periods. Data is sourced from RTA and Dubai Police regulations effective in 2025.

Violation	Fine (AED)	Black Points	Impoundment
Exceeding speed limit by more than 60 km/h	2,000–3,000	12	30 days
Running a red light	1,000	12	30 days (+ possible 50,000 AED release fee)
Reckless driving / Street racing	2,000+	23	60 days
Driving under influence (Alcohol/Drugs)	Court decided (min 20,000)	23+	60 days + license suspension
Not wearing seatbelt (Driver/Passenger)	400 (per person)	4	—
Using phone while driving	800	4	—
Sudden swerving / Lane discipline	1,000	4	—
Tailgating (Failure to leave safe distance)	400	4	—
Jaywalking (Crossing in undesignated areas)	400	—	—

Seatbelts and Distracted Driving

Drivers are legally responsible for ensuring that all passengers are buckled up. Fines for unbuckled seatbelts are 400 AED per person—meaning a car with five unbuckled passengers could incur a 2,000 AED fine in a single stop. This is especially critical in large family cars in Dubai, where multiple rows of seats require careful monitoring.

Examples of spacious vehicles where seatbelt compliance is essential:

Cadillac Escalade Sport Platinum (7 seats)
Hyundai Staria (family minivan)
BMW X7 White Restyling

Using a mobile phone while driving—whether handheld or mounted for navigation without proper hands-free setup—results in an 800 AED fine and 4 Black Points. Dubai Police actively enforces this rule through AI cameras capable of detecting distracted driving.

Lane Discipline and Overtaking

Sudden lane changes, failure to signal, and improper overtaking are common violations. Fines range from 400 to 1,000 AED depending on severity, with 4–12 Black Points. Tailgating—following too closely—is also heavily penalized (400 AED, 4 Black Points), as it’s a leading cause of rear-end collisions on highways.

Pedestrians and Signals

Failure to yield to pedestrians at designated crossings results in a 500 AED fine. Jaywalking (crossing in undesignated areas, especially on roads with speeds above 80 km/h) incurs a 400 AED fine for pedestrians under new 2025 regulations. Drivers must remain vigilant near schools, malls, and residential areas.

The Black Points System Explained

Dubai operates a cumulative Black Points system tied to your driver’s license. Each violation adds points, and reaching 24 points triggers license suspension. Black Points remain active for 12 months from the date of the violation—if no new violations occur within that year, the points reset to zero.

Consequences of Accumulating 24 Black Points

First occurrence: 3-month license suspension
Second occurrence: 6-month license suspension
Third occurrence: 1-year license suspension + mandatory re-examination and driving school

Drivers can check their current Black Points balance via the Dubai Police app or RTA website. It’s critical to monitor this regularly, especially for frequent drivers or those who have previously received fines.

Severe Offenses & Vehicle Impoundment (New Decrees)

Under Decree No. 30 of 2023, Dubai introduced substantial vehicle release fees (separate from standard fines) for severe violations. While the initial fine for running a red light is 1,000 AED, the cost to release the impounded vehicle from the police yard can reach 50,000 AED. For street racing or reckless driving without authorization, the release fee can be as high as 100,000 AED.

Additionally, impounded vehicles incur a daily storage fee of 50 AED per day. These fees are designed to deter dangerous driving and protect public safety.

High-performance vehicles require extra discipline. Even on supercars available for rent—such as those in the Lamborghini rental fleet—street racing, track-style driving on public roads, and other reckless behavior are strictly prohibited. Examples of cars that demand responsible driving:

Ferrari F8 Spider (0–100 km/h in 2.9 seconds)
Lamborghini Huracan EVO Spyder
Porsche 911 GT3

At Brook Drive, strict rental terms prohibit track usage and racing to protect clients from catastrophic fines and legal consequences. Violations of these terms result in immediate contract termination and full liability transfer to the renter.

Zero Tolerance: Driving Under Influence

Dubai enforces a zero-tolerance policy for alcohol and drugs while driving. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.00%—even trace amounts detected in a breath test result in severe penalties.

Penalties for DUI include:

Minimum fine: 20,000 AED (court-decided, can be much higher)
Minimum 1-month imprisonment
60-day vehicle impoundment
License suspension for 1 year
Deportation for expatriates and tourists

Public intoxication is also illegal. Alcohol consumption is only permitted in licensed venues such as hotel bars, restaurants, and private hotel rooms. Drivers should never operate a vehicle after consuming any alcohol, regardless of quantity.

Practical Guide for Drivers

How to Check and Pay Fines

Dubai offers multiple official channels for checking and paying traffic fines:

Dubai Police App: Available for iOS and Android, allows fine checks by license plate or driver’s license number. Supports credit cards and Apple Pay.
RTA Website/App: Visit rta.ae or download the RTA Dubai app to check and pay fines for traffic and parking violations.
Dubai Now App: Consolidated government services platform that includes fine checking and payment for both RTA and Dubai Police.
Tabby (Installment Payment): Partnered with Dubai Police and RTA to allow installment payments for fines. Available to both residents and tourists with a valid credit card linked to Tabby, subject to credit approval.

If you’ve received a fine and need to manage your budget, consider renting economy cars in Dubai for cost-effective mobility while resolving penalties.

Paying Fines for Rental Cars (Tourist-Specific)

Standard market practice among rental companies in Dubai involves blocking a security deposit on the renter’s credit card. When a traffic fine is issued, the rental company deducts the fine amount plus an administrative fee (typically 10–15% or a flat fee per violation) from the deposit. Deposits are often held for up to 30 days after rental return, as fines from Dubai Police may arrive with delays.

Brook Drive offers a unique advantage: We operate on a No Deposit policy. Clients are not subject to prolonged deposit holds. Instead, when a fine is issued, we send a direct payment link, and the client settles the fine immediately. This ensures transparency, avoids unexpected deductions, and eliminates the hassle of waiting weeks for deposit release.

For tourists, the most common violations occur due to unfamiliarity with local road rules or vehicle handling. Popular rental models among tourists include:

We advise all renters to check for fines before returning the vehicle and settling any outstanding penalties promptly to avoid administrative fees and complications.

FAQ: Quick Answers

Is there a grace period for speeding in Dubai?

Historically, a +20 km/h buffer above the posted limit existed before fines were triggered. As of 2025, this is no longer reliably applied—radars may issue fines at lower thresholds. Always treat posted limits as strict enforcement thresholds.

Can I pay traffic fines in installments?

Yes. Tabby, in partnership with Dubai Police and RTA, allows installment payments for traffic fines. This service is available to both residents and tourists with valid credit cards, subject to credit approval.

What is the minimum age to rent a car in Dubai?

Most rental companies, including Brook Drive, require renters to be at least 21 years old with a valid driver’s license. For high-performance or luxury vehicles, the minimum age is typically 25, with at least 1–2 years of driving experience.

What happens if I accumulate 24 Black Points?

Your driver’s license will be suspended for 3 months on the first occurrence, 6 months on the second, and 1 year (with mandatory re-examination) on the third.

How much does it cost to release an impounded car in Dubai?

Release fees vary by violation. For severe offenses like red light running or reckless driving, fees can reach 50,000 AED. For street racing, fees can be as high as 100,000 AED, plus daily storage fees of 50 AED.

Can tourists be deported for traffic violations?

Yes. Driving under the influence (DUI) carries a high risk of deportation for expatriates and tourists, in addition to imprisonment, fines, and license suspension.

If you’re concerned about potential fines impacting your travel budget, explore our special offer rental car prices in Dubai to offset costs with competitive rates and transparent terms.

For more information and to book your vehicle, visit Brook Drive.

Traffic Fines & Road Rules in Dubai: Complete Guide