By 2028, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will have about 293 cars per 1,000 people. And with this surge comes heightened traffic challenges, especially in Abu Dhabi. The UAE capital recorded the second-highest number of traffic incidents in 2022 after Dubai, with 127 fatalities and 1,756 injuries. To help curb such statistics, the government strictly imposes fines for a wide range of traffic violations. Here’s a traffic fine guide for Abu Dhabi to help you become more familiar with those.
Most common traffic fines in Abu Dhabi
Below are some of the most common road-related violations and their corresponding fines in Abu Dhabi.
| Description | Fine | Black points | Additional penalty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Driving a vehicle below the minimum speed limit for the road (if any) | AED400 | – | – |
| Exceeding the speed limit by more than 80 km/hour | AED3,000 | 23 | Vehicle confiscation for 60 days |
| Driving without vehicle number plates out | AED3,000 | 23 | Vehicle confiscation for 90 days |
| Jeopardizing the safety of road users | AED2,000 | 23 | Vehicle confiscation for 60 days |
| Sudden swerving | AED1,000 | 4 | – |
| Violation reversing dangerously fine | AED500 | 4 | – |
| Red light fine | AED1,000 | 12 | Vehicle confiscation for 30 days |
| Not leaving a safe distance when driving behind other vehicles | AED400 | 4 | – |
| Entering the road without making sure the way is clear | AED400 | 4 | – |
| Seat fine | AED500 | Driver: 4 Passenger: 0 | – |
| Overtaking from the road shoulder | AED1,000 | 6 | – |
| Not giving way to emergency vehicles/police cars/official convoy | AED1,000 | 6 | – |
| Parking on pavements | AED400 | – | – |
| Parking in places designated for people with special needs/in front of fire hydrants | AED1,000 | 6 | – |
| Obstructing authorities in regulating traffic or rescue during emergencies | AED1,000 | 4 | Vehicle confiscation for 60 days |
| Driving a vehicle with an expired driving license/registration | AED500 | 4 | Vehicle confiscation for 7 days (This applies for expired registration if expired for more than 3 months) |
| Not carrying a driver’s license/vehicle registration | AED400 | – | – |
| Using a mobile phone while driving | AED800 | 4 | – |
| Driving a vehicle without insurance | AED500 | 4 | Vehicle confiscation for 7 days |
| Transporting passengers illegally | AED3,000 | 24 | Vehicle confiscation for 30 days |
| Not giving way to pedestrians at pedestrian crossings | AED500 | 6 | – |
| Driving under the influence of alcohol | Decided by the court | 23 | Vehicle confiscation for 60 days |
| Driving under the influence of drugs/other similar substances | Decided by the court | – | Vehicle confiscation for 60 days/License suspension for one year after punishment completion |
| Causing major accidents or injuries | Decided by the court | 23 | Vehicle confiscation for 30 days |
| Causing someone’s death | Decided by the court | 23 | Vehicle confiscation for 60 days |
| Traffic direction fine | AED600 | 4 | Vehicle confiscation for 7 days |
Traffic violation categories
Abu Dhabi’s commitment to road safety is reflected in its stringent enforcement of traffic laws. The UAE capital levies various fines to deter violations, which fall into the following categories.
- Speeding violations. These penalties are for drivers exceeding the speed limits indicated on road signs. These fines increase with the severity of the speeding, underscoring the importance of adhering to safe driving speeds for traffic safety.
- Reckless driving violations. Severe fines are levied for reckless driving behaviors in Abu Dhabi, including driving under the influence of alcohol, sudden swerving and reversing dangerously, among others.
- Parking violations. Abu Dhabi follows strict parking regulations. Parking on pavements, parking in places designated for people with special needs and parking without securing the vehicle are among those prohibited to ensure pedestrian safety and smooth traffic movement.
- Weather-related violations. The city also implements traffic regulations related to adverse weather conditions to boost public safety. Offenses include obstructing authorities during emergencies and entering flooded valleys, among others.
- Other traffic violations. Abu Dhabi’s traffic laws encompass a wide array of traffic violations. These range from using a mobile phone while driving to not carrying a driving license/vehicle registration.
Read: Dubai traffic fines that can get you in a jam
How do traffic fines work in Abu Dhabi?
In the city, the Abu Dhabi Police enforces traffic laws to promote road safety. Particularly, its traffic and licensing department collects fines for the various traffic violations. Apart from enhancing the safety of road users and pedestrians, these fines also foster responsible driving habits. The severity of fines varies based on the offense, aiming to discourage drivers from engaging in such behaviors. For instance, traffic violations that lead to serious accidents or harm to individuals are subject to an ‘injuries fine’, which is determined by the court and highlights the legal repercussions for causing injuries during reckless driving.
In Abu Dhabi, the government also employs a Black Points System, where serious traffic violations result in black points on drivers’ records. Once you accumulate 24 points, your license will be suspended for three months. The second time you accumulate 24 points, your license will be suspended for 12 months. On your third offense, your license will be revoked and you may need to complete certain driving seminars.
Ways to pay your traffic fine in Abu Dhabi
In case you incur traffic fines, you have several options for a smooth payment experience.
Method 1: Via the Abu Dhabi Police website or mobile application
Visit their website, click on “Our Services,” then “Traffic Fines Payment.” You will be redirected to the TAMM website (more on this in the next method).
If you want to pay via the app, download the mobile app first and sign in. If you’re not registered yet, you can create one by entering your Emirates ID number, mobile number and pertinent vehicle information. Once you’re on the homepage, you can view your total fines. Select your fines and tap the “Pay Now” button to settle your penalties via debit or credit card. You will get a notification and receipt once the transaction is complete.
Method 2: Via the TAMM website or mobile application
“Tamm” in Arabic is a word that means “consider it done.” Abu Dhabi exemplifies that meaning in its TAMM app, a unified digital ecosystem where you can access more than 700 public and private sector services. One of the things you can do here is to pay traffic fines.
If you’re paying via their website, sign in or sign up, click on the “Vehicle and Transportation” link, then the “Traffic Violations and Fines” tab. Input your Emirates ID and vehicle registration number before paying. You can pay via debit card, credit card or E-dirham.
If you’re settling fines via their mobile app, you must first have the app on your phone. Tap “Payments” on the homepage, then select “Traffic Fines Payment.” Sign in or register with your UAE Pass and select the fine you will pay. Next, input debit or credit card details. You will receive a receipt and notification upon successful payment.
Method 3: Via the UAE Ministry of Interior (MOI) website or mobile application
On the website, select “E-services,” then “Traffic and Licensing.” Proceed to the “Payment of Traffic Fines” section. Sign in with your UAE Pass or sign up to view outstanding fines. Select a fine to settle and click on the “Pay Fines” button.
If you want to pay via the MOI app instead, download it first, tap “Traffic Fines Payment” and sign in with your UAE Pass (Create an account if you don’t have one yet). Once signed in, use your Emirates ID to view your fines. As with other mobile app methods, you can select the fine and pay via the app by simply entering your debit or credit card details. You will also get a receipt.
Method 4: In-person payment options
You can settle fines at designated centers if you prefer to pay in person. These include self-payment kiosks at TAMM Customer Service Centers and ADNOC petrol stations. Alternatively, you can visit any of Abu Dhabi Police Traffic Department Customer Service Centers.
Checking traffic fines online
How to Check Traffic Fines Online
Checking traffic fines online is a convenient and efficient way to stay on top of your driving record. In Abu Dhabi, you can easily check your traffic fines online through the official Abu Dhabi Police website or mobile app. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to check traffic fines online:
- Visit the Abu Dhabi Police website or download the mobile app: Start by accessing the official Abu Dhabi Police website or downloading their mobile application from your app store.
- Click on the “Traffic Fines Inquiry” section: Navigate to the section dedicated to traffic fines inquiry.
- Enter your details: You will need to input your Emirates ID, vehicle plate number, or driving license number to proceed.
- Check for any outstanding fines: Once you’ve entered the required information, you can view any outstanding fines associated with your record.
Additionally, you can check your traffic fines online through the Ministry of Interior (MOI) website or the TAMM website and mobile app. These platforms provide a user-friendly interface to check and pay traffic fines, ensuring you stay informed about your driving record and any penalties you may need to address.
Disputing traffic fines
How to Dispute Traffic Fines
If you believe you have been wrongly issued a traffic fine, you have the right to dispute it through the Abu Dhabi Police website or by visiting a police station. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to dispute traffic fines:
- Gather evidence to support your claim: Collect any relevant evidence, such as photos, videos, or witness statements, that can substantiate your case.
- Visit the Abu Dhabi Police website: Go to the official Abu Dhabi Police website and click on the “Dispute Traffic Fine” section.
- Fill out the online form: Complete the form with your personal details and the specifics of the fine you are disputing. Attach any evidence you have gathered.
- Submit your dispute: After filling out the form and attaching your evidence, submit your dispute and wait for a response from the authorities.
Alternatively, you can visit a police station to submit your dispute in person. Make sure to bring all relevant documents and evidence to support your claim. The authorities will review your case and inform you of their decision.
Black points system in Abu Dhabi
What are Black Points?
The black points system in Abu Dhabi is a penalty system designed to discourage reckless driving and enhance road safety. When you commit a traffic violation, you are assigned a certain number of black points, which can lead to license suspension or vehicle impounding. Here’s a breakdown of the black points system:
- 1-3 black points: No penalty
- 4-7 black points: Warning letter
- 8-12 black points: License suspension for 1-3 months
- 13-23 black points: License suspension for 3-6 months
- 24 or more black points: License suspension for 6-12 months
It’s essential to be aware of the black points system and to drive safely to avoid accumulating points. Accumulating 24 points will result in a license suspension for three months. If you accumulate 24 points a second time, your license will be suspended for 12 months. On the third offense, your license will be revoked, and you may need to complete certain driving seminars.
You can check your black points online through the Abu Dhabi Police website or mobile app, ensuring you stay informed about your driving record and any penalties you may need to address.
Frequently asked questions
What are the most common traffic violations in Abu Dhabi?
Speeding, reckless driving and driving without a valid license are some of the most common traffic violations in the city.
How to settle Abu Dhabi traffic fines?
You can pay online or in person to settle your fines. Choose from the mobile apps or websites of the Abu Dhabi Police, TAMM and MOI. Or, you can visit a TAMM or Abu Dhabi Police Traffic Department customer service center or an ADNOC petrol station.
Is it possible to contest a traffic fine in Abu Dhabi?
Visit the Abu Dhabi Police website and select the “Objection to a traffic violation” option. Provide details like name, mobile number, Emirates ID and fine number. Choose a time when the Abu Dhabi Police can call you back and state your contestation. If there is a relevant image, upload it before hitting the “Submit” button. If the police consider your complaint appropriate, they will cancel it. Moreover, if they have any more inquiries, they will contact you.
Can you leave the UAE without settling traffic fines?
Your traffic fines are likely linked to your Emirates ID, not just your driver’s license. To avoid airport hassles when leaving the UAE for good, ensure you pay all your traffic fines before departing.
Final thoughts
In a city as bustling as the UAE capital, implementing traffic fines is a disincentivizing mechanism that discourages drivers from engaging in unsafe and illegal behaviors on the road. Abu Dhabi boasts a proactive approach to promoting road safety. As a road user, you have to play your part as well. Ideally, the goal is to avoid incurring traffic fines in Abu Dhabi. To do this, you must practice good driving habits and be aware of various road-related violations and their consequences. The government offers multiple online and in-person payment methods if you incur a fine.
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