A senior officer emphasized that the main purpose of the traffic system is to save lives, rather than to raise revenue.
Dubai Police have indicated that traffic violations in the emirate could double if their smart camera systems were fully enforced, according to a report by Emarat Al Youm on Tuesday.
The statement comes amid complaints from motorists that the AI-powered cameras do not reflect “the spirit of the law” and penalize drivers without taking circumstances into account.
Major General Saif Muhair Al Mazrouei, Assistant Commander-in-Chief for Operations Affairs at Dubai Police, told the newspaper that the advanced systems are not yet being used to their full potential. He stressed that the primary aim is deterrence and road safety, rather than simply issuing fines.
Motorists Complain
Drivers have expressed frustration over what they see as the rigid nature of the automated traffic system. One motorist reported receiving a Dh800 fine and four black points for briefly touching his mobile phone while it was in a holder. Another was penalized for failing to use an indicator on a quiet road late at night.
A third driver said he was issued two speeding fines within a single minute on Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, despite exceeding the speed limit only slightly. These cases have reinforced the perception that the technology lacks the discretion a human officer might exercise.
Police Perspective
Maj-Gen Saif Muhair Al Mazrouei emphasized that the primary goal of the traffic system is to save lives, not to generate revenue. He noted that the smart systems are deliberately not used to their full capacity as a form of leniency.
For example, a driver using a mobile phone over a long distance may be recorded by multiple cameras but is issued only a single fine as a deterrent. He also mentioned that an average-speed detection system—common in other countries—has been tested but not implemented in Dubai to avoid public confusion.
Maj-Gen Al Mazrouei added that the cameras have proven effective in curbing aggressive driving behaviors, such as cutting off other vehicles at intersections, helping protect compliant motorists.
A Balanced System
Dubai Police have simplified the process for contesting fines via their smart app and website, ensuring transparency and accountability. Maj-Gen Al Mazrouei reassured the public that the aim is to enhance safety without making drivers feel constantly targeted.
He concluded that Dubai’s approach blends technology with human oversight and combines deterrence with education, all designed to maintain road safety.
