Who this is for
If you are planning a move to Dubai or have recently arrived, understanding how the city enforces road safety will save you time, money, and stress. This guide is for entrepreneurs, families, and professionals who want clear, reliable advice on fines, black points, and everyday driving habits that keep you compliant from day one.
The penalties every newcomer should know
Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority - RTA - uses a points and fines system to encourage safe driving. Every traffic offense can add black points to your licence. Reach the threshold and your licence can be suspended, your vehicle impounded, or both. Cameras are widespread, enforcement is consistent, and penalties increase sharply with severity.
Below is a quick comparison of common violations to help you avoid expensive mistakes:
| Violation | Fine - AED | Black Points | Vehicle Impound |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speeding under 20 km/h over limit | 300 | 0 | No |
| Speeding over 60 km/h | 3,000 | 12 | 30 days |
| Speeding over 80 km/h | 3,000 | 23 | 60 days |
| Running a red light | 1,000 | 12 | 30 days - higher impound fees possible in severe cases |
| Reckless driving - endangering others | 2,000 | 23 | 60 days |
| Driving under the influence | 20,000 | Court decision | Up to 60 days - licence suspension up to 1 year |
| No number plate | 3,000 | 0 | 90 days - fake plates can reach 50,000 AED |
| Mobile phone while driving | 800 | 4 | Possible on repeat |
| Tailgating - unsafe distance | 1,000 | 4 | Possible on repeat |
| Seatbelt not worn - any occupant | 400 | 4 | No |
| Illegal vehicle modifications | 500-50,000 | Varies | Possible under new rules |
Speed limits change quickly across Dubai’s highways and urban roads. Use your car’s navigation and pay attention to variable-sign zones. The biggest risks for newcomers are tailgating at high speed, late lane changes to avoid exits, and rushing through changing lights. Running a red light carries serious consequences and is heavily monitored at busy intersections. Using a mobile phone while driving is an easy mistake with real costs - an AED 800 fine and four black points. If you accumulate points from multiple offenses, you can face licence suspension for months. Keeping a clean record protects your insurance premiums and your ability to drive legally for work and school.
Simple habits save thousands of dirhams: wear seatbelts, leave space, watch limits, and put the phone away.
How ARK helps you live compliant from day one
At ARK, we guide you through more than company formation. We help you settle into daily life with confidence, including practical driving compliance. Our team explains licence conversion or testing, insurance expectations, and RTA requirements in plain language. We also connect you with trusted insurers, driver training providers, and app tools that make staying within the rules easy. Relocate with clarity - and keep your record clean.
Start your move today
- Book a free consultation with ARK to map your relocation timeline.
- Confirm your licence conversion or testing path and required documents.
- Set up car insurance and Salik - Dubai’s toll system - before you drive.
- Download essential apps: RTA Dubai, Dubai Police, and a reputable navigation app.
- Review your route habits - speed limits, common cameras, and parking options.
- Schedule a follow up with ARK for post-arrival compliance and visa support.
Handy Dubai driving facts
New residents can often convert licences from approved countries or take a test if conversion is not available. The RTA - Roads and Transport Authority - manages licences, tests, fines, and registration through efficient online portals and the RTA Dubai app. Salik is the electronic toll system that deducts fees automatically when you pass through gates, so ensure your vehicle tag is active and funded. Most residential areas use paid parking with clear signboards and time limits. Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers, and child seats are required according to age and size. Road policing uses widespread cameras, so consistent safe habits matter more than occasional caution.
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