Smart systems identify wanted vehicles as owners urged to settle fines before legal action.
Dubai Police impounded around 30 vehicles last year after their accumulated traffic fines exceeded Dh6,000, the threshold under Dubai law at which vehicles can be seized, according to a traffic official.
Motorists whose outstanding fines are nearing or have crossed the limit are contacted and urged to settle their dues to avoid having their vehicles impounded if detected. According to Emarat Al Youm, some vehicles seized last year had accumulated fines running into tens of thousands of dirhams, Dubai Police said.
Under Decree No. 29 of 2015, as amended by Decree No. 30 of 2023, which governs vehicle impoundment in Dubai, authorities can seize a vehicle when its outstanding traffic fines exceed Dh6,000. Owners must settle the accumulated fines to have the impounded vehicle released.
Police said enforcement teams use advanced smart systems to scan number plates and identify wanted vehicles, whether they are being driven or parked in public areas.
Motorists are also notified through text messages and smart alerts, with authorities urging them to settle outstanding violations before further legal action is taken.
The seizures also involved vehicles whose registrations had not been renewed, in some cases for several years.
Dubai Police urged motorists to avoid delaying fine payments or vehicle registration renewals, noting that payment plans and other facilities are available through its partners to help drivers clear outstanding dues.
Authorities also cautioned motorists against postponing payments in anticipation of future fine-reduction campaigns, stressing that such initiatives are introduced based on studies and analysis of traffic violations and accident trends.
Dubai Police said its approach combines awareness with firm enforcement to encourage compliance and enhance road safety.
