We’ve all been flashed while trying to overtake that one slow car. Or maybe you received that horrid message of a fine for an expired vehicle. Now, have you ever driven around Dubai and spotted all those cameras (or as I call them, ‘torture devices’) and wondered what they detect? If you thought cameras existed solely to catch speeding drivers, you’re mistaken. Traffic radars across Dubai do much more that snapping speedsters, including detecting drivers using their phones, revving engines and more. Want to know more about the workings of each camera and the fines you could avoid, then keep reading!
Also Read: Use This Hack To Unlock 12 Months Of FREE Cafu Delivery For All UAE Residents
1) Speeding
You’ve spotted these cameras. You may have had the misfortune of getting snapped by one of these. These radars are located across highways, inner roads, and major intersections, and fines depend on how much you exceed the limit. Here’s a quick overview:
- AED 300: For exceeding the maximum speed limit by not more than 20km/h
- AED 600: For exceeding the maximum speed limit by not more than 30km/h
- AED 700: For exceeding the maximum speed limit by not more than 40km/h
- AED 1000: For exceeding the maximum speed limit by not more than 50km/h
- AED 1500 and six black points: For exceeding the maximum speed limit by not more than 60km/h
- AED 2000, 12 black points and a 30-day confiscation period: For exceeding the maximum speed limit by not more than 60km/h
- AED 2000, 12 black points and a 30-day confiscation period: For exceeding the maximum speed limit by not more than 80km/h
2. Driving Too Slow
Shocked by this rule? You can actually get fined for driving too slowly! These usually apply to certain areas of Dubai where a minimum speed limit has been set. These cameras are placed in some major Dubai highways to keep traffic flowing efficiently.
- Penalties for driving too slow is AED 400 and four black points.
3. Driving An Expired Vehicle
If you’re driving around in an expired vehicle, there is a possibility of getting fined as Dubai uses automatic number-plate recognition cameras, which instantly detect if your car registration has expired.
- Penalties include a fine of AED 500, four black points, and a one-week vehicle confiscation.
4. Excessive Vehicle Noise
Have you ever driven around and heard the obnoxious sounds of an engine? Now, AI-powered radars can pick up on excessive vehicle noise made from cars with modified exhausts. These radars can also detect aggressive engine roars and loud revs.
- Penalties include a fine of AED 2000 and 12 black points.
5. Phone Use/Texting While Driving
In 2024, Dubai installed new silent traffic radars capable of detecting phone use while driving. All drivers regardless of vehicle size get fined equally.
- Penalties include a fine of AED 800 and 4 black points.
6. Not Wearing A Seatbelt
Not wearing a seatbelt? Cameras can now detect if the driver and the passenger hasn’t worn a seatbelt in the car.
- Penalties include a fine of AED 400 and 4 black points for drivers and passengers.
7. Skipping A Red Light
It’s a no-brainer that you HAVE to stop at a red light. In the off chance you drive past one, red light cameras in Dubai snap pictures and use infrared technology to catch violators without flashing you. This helps prevent other drivers from getting distracted.
- Light vehicles and motorbikes face an AED 1000 fine, 12 black points, and a 30-day vehicle confiscation.
- Heavy vehicles face an AED 3,000 fine and a one-year license freeze.
8. Not Stopping For Pedestrians
In some locations, radars have been installed to detect drivers who do not stop at pedestrian crossings. The law states that drivers need to hit the brakes if they spot a pedestrian waiting to cross the road.
- Penalties include an AED 500 fine.
9. Lane Swerving
If you’re caught making sudden lane changes, especially at traffic signals, prepare for a fine. Special radars monitor cars that swerve or drive erratically. Be sure to switch your blinkers on before making a lane switch.
- Penalties include an AED 400 fine for light vehicles and AED 1500, 12 black points for heavy vehicles.
10. Driving Past A School Bus Stop Sign
You may have noticed a bright red stop sign pop up every time a school bus stops to drop off or pick up students. These buses have built-in cameras that detect motorists who ignore the stop signs mounted on the side.
- Penalties for crossing the stop sign include an AED 1000 fine and 10 black points.
11. Radars For Truck Lane
Ever stuck behind a truck on the fast lane? This is precisely why truck lane radars were introduced. These cameras ensure trucks stay in their assigned lanes, thereby maintaining smooth traffic flow.
- Penalties for driving in undesignated lanes include a fine of AED 1500 and 12 black points for heavy vehicle drivers.
For more information about traffic rules, visit the official Roads & Transport Authority website.
