Several residents reported that the sudden noises—often occurring during quiet late-night hours—initially caused alarm, as they sounded like blasts.
Police across the UAE have launched a crackdown on motorists using illegally modified cars and motorcycles following resident complaints about loud engine bursts late at night, which resembled explosions and caused panic in residential neighbourhoods.
Several residents reported that the sudden noises, often heard during quiet late-night hours, initially caused alarm, as they sounded like blasts.
Amid regional conflicts dominating headlines, some residents feared the sounds might be linked to security developments before realizing they were caused by vehicles deliberately producing “backfire” engine noises.
UAE Police Crack Down on Loud Vehicle Noises in Residential Areas
Dubai and Sharjah: Authorities across the UAE have launched a crackdown on motorists using illegally modified cars and motorcycles after residents reported loud engine bursts during late-night hours that resembled explosions. The disturbances, caused by teenagers and young drivers revving engines or using vehicles fitted with modified exhaust systems designed to produce explosive-like sounds, led to alarm in several neighbourhoods.
Amid heightened regional tensions in the Middle East, some residents initially feared the noises might be linked to security incidents, including missile strikes, before realizing they were caused by vehicles performing deliberate backfire sounds.
Loud bursts of engine noise
Residents in parts of Dubai and Sharjah reported hearing loud engine bursts, particularly from motorcycles and modified vehicles, echoing through residential streets late at night. Authorities clarified that the incidents were linked to reckless driving and illegal vehicle modifications, and not to any security threat.
Officials reassured the public that the UAE remains safe and secure, noting that security agencies continue to closely monitor regional developments.
Police enforcement measures
Following complaints from residents, police patrols have been intensified in residential areas.
Major General Saif Muhair Al Mazrouei, Assistant Commander-in-Chief for Operations at Dubai Police, said:
“Our aim is to enhance road safety and ensure the comfort and tranquillity of residents by addressing violations such as excessive vehicle noise and illegal modifications.”
In Sharjah, enforcement has also been strengthened. Brigadier Khalifa Al Khassouni, Director of the Central Region Department at Sharjah Police, said targeted inspection campaigns and checkpoints have been deployed to detect vehicles with illegal modifications. He emphasised that the campaign is designed to enhance residents’ sense of safety, particularly during times when public sensitivity to sudden loud sounds is high.
Legal penalties
Under UAE traffic regulations, motorists caught driving vehicles that create excessive noise face:
- Dh2,000 fine
- 12 black points
- Possible vehicle impoundment
Vehicles modified without proper authorisation may incur additional penalties, including confiscation and release fees of up to Dh10,000. Police also urged parents to monitor teenagers and young drivers to prevent reckless behaviour that could alarm communities.
Residents are encouraged to report reckless driving or disturbing behaviour through official police channels so that officers can respond promptly.
Authorities reiterated that the UAE continues to enjoy a high level of safety and stability, and that ongoing enforcement campaigns aim to ensure residential communities remain peaceful and secure while maintaining public reassurance amid current regional developments.
Residents welcomed the swift police response, noting that increased patrols and enforcement measures have helped restore calm in affected neighbourhoods and reinforced confidence in the country’s strong safety and security system.
