New Traffic Rules in Dubai: Vehicle Impoundment for Up to 30 Days for Driving Offenses

Stricter penalties introduced by Dubai Police include vehicle impoundment for up to 30 days for 14 specific traffic violations.

30-Day Vehicle Impoundment for Serious Offenses

Effective immediately, the Dubai Police will confiscate vehicles for 30 days for a series of high-risk traffic violations. Offenders will also face fines ranging from Dh400 to Dh1,000 and four black points, in line with the federal traffic law. Among the offenses that will trigger this additional penalty are:

• Using mobile phones while driving
• Sudden deviation of the vehicle
• Tailgating (not leaving enough safe distance)
• Heavy vehicles failing to adhere to lane discipline

These offenses not only endanger the driver but also put other road users at significant risk, prompting the need for more severe repercussions.

14 Traffic Violations That Lead to Impoundment

In addition to the 30-day impoundment for more serious offenses, 14 specific traffic violations can also result in your vehicle being impounded. These include:

• Entering the road without ensuring it is clear
• Reversing in a dangerous manner
• Lane indiscipline
• Stopping in the middle of the road without reason
• Dangerous overtaking
• Lack of necessary safety and security conditions in the vehicle
• Stopping on the road shoulder for non-emergency reasons
• Overtaking from the road shoulder
• Driving without a license plate
• Obstructing traffic flow
• Making unauthorized changes to vehicle color

Heavy Vehicle Offenders Face Severe Penalties

Heavy vehicle drivers who fail to maintain lane discipline will also see their vehicles impounded for 30 days. This applies to trucks and other commercial vehicles, with a focus on maintaining safety on highways where heavy vehicles can pose significant risks.

Reinforcing Road Safety in Dubai

This is not the first time Dubai has imposed stricter rules for reckless driving. Last year, a Dh50,000 fee was introduced to release vehicles impounded for serious traffic offenses such as reckless driving and jumping a red light. 

Multiple offenders have already been penalized under these laws, which aim to deter unsafe driving practices and ensure the safety of all road users.