Dubai steps up road surveillance as AI cameras detect distracted drivers.
Dubai: Dubai Police recorded 27,756 traffic violations across the emirate in October 2026 using smart monitoring systems, with motorists caught using mobile phones, driving while distracted and failing to wear seat belts.
The AI-powered systems are helping authorities identify dangerous driving practices that put motorists, passengers and pedestrians at risk, said Brigadier Juma Salem bin Suwaidan, Director of the General Department of Traffic at Dubai Police.
Brigadier bin Suwaidan said the advanced systems use artificial intelligence and modern technologies to detect and record violations with a high degree of accuracy, including offences that may be difficult to identify through conventional traffic enforcement.
He stressed that distracted driving remains one of the most dangerous behaviours on the road, warning that even a few seconds of inattention can have serious consequences.
Mobile phone use can lead to serious accidents
Using a mobile phone to make calls, browse social media or read and send messages significantly reduces a driver’s concentration and ability to react quickly to unexpected situations, he said.
A momentary lapse in attention could cause a motorist to lose control of a vehicle or fail to respond to sudden changes in traffic, such as a vehicle stopping unexpectedly, a pedestrian crossing or an abrupt change in traffic flow.
Such situations can lead to serious collisions and accidents involving pedestrians.
“The road demands a driver’s full attention. Any distraction can have tragic consequences, affecting not just the driver but other road users as well,” Brigadier bin Suwaidan said.
Dh800 fine for using mobile phones while driving
Dubai Police reminded motorists of the penalties for dangerous driving behaviours detected by the smart monitoring systems.
Drivers caught using mobile phones or driving while distracted face a Dh800 fine, while failing to wear a seat belt carries a Dh700 penalty.
Brigadier bin Suwaidan said the fines are intended to discourage dangerous behaviour and encourage motorists to comply with traffic regulations.
Dubai Police also announced plans to expand the network of smart monitoring devices across internal roads and major highways, strengthening efforts to detect traffic violations and improve road safety.
Seat belts can prevent serious injuries
The Dubai Police official also urged motorists and passengers to wear seat belts at all times, describing them as one of the most important safety measures in vehicles.
Seat belts help minimise injuries during collisions by preventing occupants from hitting the vehicle’s interior or being thrown out by the force of an impact.
He emphasised that wearing a seat belt should not be viewed simply as a way to avoid a traffic fine, but as an essential precaution that can save lives.
Dubai Police to install more smart traffic cameras
Dubai Police plans to expand its network of smart traffic monitoring devices, increasing their coverage across internal roads and major highways in the coming period.
The expansion will enable authorities to detect traffic violations and dangerous driving behaviours more comprehensively and accurately, Brigadier bin Suwaidan said.
The initiative forms part of a wider strategy to strengthen traffic enforcement, improve road safety and address the causes of road accidents.
Repeat traffic offenders face firm action
Brigadier bin Suwaidan warned that Dubai Police would take firm action against motorists who repeatedly violate traffic rules, drive dangerously or disregard road safety regulations.
He said protecting lives and ensuring the safety of the community remain among the force’s top priorities.
Smart monitoring systems and traffic patrols will continue to identify offenders and ensure appropriate legal action is taken without exception.
He stressed that endangering other people’s lives through negligence or failure to follow traffic regulations is unacceptable and will not be tolerated.
Dubai Police urge motorists to stay alert
Brigadier bin Suwaidan said the aim of intensified traffic monitoring extends beyond issuing fines. The priority is to improve driving behaviour, promote safer habits and strengthen personal responsibility among road users.
He described compliance with traffic regulations as the first line of defence against road accidents and a key factor in protecting lives and property.
Motorists were urged to remain fully focused on the road, avoid mobile phone use and other distractions, and ensure all passengers are wearing seat belts before starting their journeys.
Drivers should also maintain a safe distance from vehicles ahead and remain alert throughout their trips.
“Road safety is a shared responsibility, and obeying traffic laws reflects a driver’s awareness and respect for the lives of others,” he said.
Dubai Police will continue to strengthen road safety awareness campaigns, smart surveillance and traffic enforcement efforts to improve road safety and protect all road users from reckless driving.
