UAE has one of the most stringent road safety rules to safeguard vehicle owners and pedestrians. Vehicle maintenance is not just about enhancing performance and comfort; it is also about remaining true to the spirit of traffic laws and avoiding hefty fines. In the UAE, many fines relate directly or indirectly to vehicle and tire maintenance, so drivers must be on their toes.

In this article, we will look at the commonest car maintenance-related fines in the UAE, their penalties, and regulations that will afford the owner protection against the charges by keeping the vehicle regularly maintained.

Traffic Fine System in UAE

Within the UAE, the body of traffic laws is extremely broad, covering everything from speed limits and parking regulations to vehicle maintenance, seat belt laws, and road signs. Any violation meets with fines, black points, and even vehicle impoundment.

Fines for Different Levels of Violation

• Speeding Violations: Fines are structured based on how serious your speeding violation is. Generally, the range of fines varies according to the speed over the limit, starting from AED 300 and going as high as AED 3,000, or even beyond.
• Tyre Maintenance: An example of such an offense is tyre maintenance for worn-out or expired tires; violators are subject to a fine of AED 500 plus black points and vehicle impoundment.
• Parking Violations: For incorrect parking within a designated space, fines ranging from AED 200 to AED 1000 may be leveled, depending on the seriousness of the offense and the location.
• Driving Without a Valid License: Driving without a license incurs a fine, possible black point, and possible vehicle impounding.

What is the Black Points System regarding Traffic Fines in UAE

Apart from monetary fines, additional rules in the UAE include a black points system whereby, with each infraction, certain points are designated as black points for the offense. The accumulation of a determined number of black points results in further punishment, such as license suspension or vehicle impoundment.

• Minor violations: For minor violations, you may get 1, 2, 3, or 4 black-point entries on your record. Minor violations include - Not wearing a seatbelt, Using a mobile phone while driving, Sudden lane changes without indication, Driving with weak headlights or brake lights, etc.
• Major violations: For major violations you may be charged heavier fines and higher black point penalties, often ranging from 5 to 12 black points or more. This includes exceeding speed limits by 60 km/h or more, Jumping a red light, Driving a vehicle without a number plate, Driving with worn-out or expired tyres, and Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Car Maintenance-Related Traffic Fines in the UAE

Car maintenance is an essential part of getting a comfortable ride, but it is also a legal requirement in the UAE, where there are stringent laws regulating traffic in favor of road safety. For a driver, failure to conduct required maintenance may result in unwarranted financial penalties or loss of black points or even impounding of the car. Here are some car maintenance-related traffic fines in the UAE that everyone should know:

1. Driving with Worn or Expired Tyres – AED 500 Fine, 4 Black Points

Tyres are the only contact area between the vehicle and the road and thus one of the most important components for safety. Driving on worn, damaged, or expired tyres significantly increases the risk of accidents.

How to avoid this fine:

• Regularly check the tyre tread depth for at least 1.6 mm.
• Replace your tyre every 3-5 years or as recommended by the manufacturer
• Do not use Avoid using retreaded or low-quality tyres.

How TyrePlus Can Help

We offer comprehensive tyre check-ups, tyre replacements or repair, or high-quality tyre related services along with high-quality tyre options from top brands. Our professional tyre inspections ensure your vehicle meets UAE safety regulations, preventing fines and enhancing your driving experience.

2. Driving with a Dead or Weak Battery – Risk of Improper Parking Fines (Up to AED 1,000)

A weak or faulty car battery can leave you stranded in the middle of the road or force you to park in a restricted area, leading to fines. In the UAE, parking in prohibited zones can result in a penalty of up to AED 1,000.

How to avoid this fine:

• Regular checks of battery health are mandatory, especially before going on long trips.
• Replacing car batteries should be made every two to four years at a minimum, depending on usage.
• Proper charging and maintenance of the battery.

How Tyreplus can Help:

For any battery-related service, we have your back. If you need a battery replacement or a proper checkup of your battery health our experts will take care of everything. At TyrePlus, we have a full range of battery replacement services, including battery check-ups to ensure no other problems will affect your driving experience. We also have a Mobile Van service, so in case of an emergency, simply give us a call, and we'll come to your location and fix the problem in no time.

3. Driving with Faulty Headlights – AED 400 Fine

Headlights, brake lights, and indicator lights are very important for visibility and communication on the road. Malfunctioning lights can result in an accident and probably an AED 400 fine.

How to avoid this fine:

• The lights on a vehicle should be regularly checked, and broken bulbs must be replaced immediately.
• Cleaning the lenses over the headlights is important because if they become covered in dirt, then their brightness can be deterred.
• Ensure that your indicator and brake lights work properly.

How tyreplus can help:

We provide every possible car maintenance service. Whether it's a problem with headlights or indicators, our specialists will check and advise you on the best course of action. Additionally, while here, external maintenance for your vehicle would not be a bad idea. A full inspection could indicate any problems that might disrupt smooth driving or lead to unwarranted fines.

4. Poorly maintained brakes – AED 500 fine and vehicle impoundment

Faulty brakes can be very hazardous and are treated with seriousness under the UAE's traffic laws. Driving a vehicle with poorly maintained brake systems may lead to a penalty of AED 500, black points, and perhaps even vehicle impoundment.

How to avoid this fine:

• Have brakes inspected every 10,000-20,000 km or more as per the manufacturer's guidelines.
• Be alert to signs including squeaking noises or a drop in stopping power.
• Give immediate attention to your car if you notice any braking problems.

How TyrePlus can Help:

At TyrePlus, we provide professional brake pad replacements, brake fluid checks, and complete brake system repairs. Our expert mechanics ensure the efficient operation of your braking systems, therefore reducing the risks of accidents and consequent legal penalties.

5. Driving with a Cracked or Damaged Windshield – AED 500 Fine

A cracked or damaged windshield can hinder vision while driving. A fine of AED 500 for severely damaged adjacent windows in the UAE is targeted to improve road technique and discipline.

How to Avoid This Fine:

• Repair small cracks immediately so that they do not get bigger.
• Replace the windshield when its condition impairs visibility.
• Use good quality glass and professional repair services for the sake of safety compliance.

How TyrePlus can Help:

While we specialize in tyres and brakes, we will provide windshield repairs and replacements, ensuring you drive safely and legally.

6. Vehicle Emitting Excessive Smoke – AED 1,000 Fine and 6 Black Points

Poor engine maintenance can cause excessive smoke emissions creating pollution and contravening UAE environmental laws. Thick-smoke-emitting vehicles will receive a fine of AED 1,000 and six black points.

How to Avoid This Fine:

• Perform regular engine service so as not to let your engine exceed emission limits.
• Oil and air filters should be changed to ensure clean airflow into the engine.
• Avoid overloading your vehicle completely; this can wear out your engine and may lead to a raise in emissions.

How TyrePlus can Help

We offer a wide range of engine-related services, be it engine check-ups, oil changes, and filter replacements, we will check your vehicle thoroughly and provide the best solution to keep your vehicle running efficiently and prevent unnecessary smoke emissions.

7. Ignoring Periodic Inspection of Vehicles – Varying Fines In the UAE

Checks on vehicles for safety audits are mandatory. Failure to renew your vehicle registration will result in penalties, black points, or confiscation of the vehicle.

How to Avoid This Fine:

• Follow the scheduled annual inspections by the RTA regarding your car.
• If something is found wrong during the inspection, get it fixed and pass the inspection.
• Ensure that your vehicle registration is in good standing and in date for the purpose of avoiding penalties.

How TyrePlus can Help:

At tyreplus a comprehensive range of car and tyre related services is available. We provide pre-inspection thorough checks, ensuring your car meets all safety standards before your official vehicle inspection. Our team can fix any tyre or brake-related or car service issues that may cause test failures.

How to Check Car Fine in Dubai

1. Visit the official RTA Website

To check any Dubai traffic fine you can easily find it online from the official website.

• Visit the official website- www.rta.ae
• Click on the Traffic Fines link or Check Fines.
• Enter either your vehicle license plate number, traffic file number, or Emirates ID.
• You will instantly see if there are any outstanding fines.

2. RTA Dubai App to Check Dubai Traffic Fine

In Dubai, you can easily check Dubai traffic fines by RTA mobile app. Install the RTA Dubai app from the Play Store for Android users or the App Store for iOS users.

• Log in with your RTA account or create one.
• Go to the My Fines section and find records with details like violation dates and fine amounts.

3. SMS Service

If you want to check any traffic fines in Dubai you can use the SMS service for the same.

• Go to your phone messaging application.
• Send an SMS to 5959 in the format: Fine Traffic File Number (for example, Fine 1234567).
• Receive a reply with details for any outstanding fines.

4. Contact RTA Customer Service

To check any UAE traffic fine you can call to RTA hotline number and gather the information about the fine.

• Call the RTA hotline on 800 9090.
• Provide your driving license or vehicle plate details and get live updates on fines.
• This is good to clarify your issues in case of any specific doubts about certain violations.

How to Pay Traffic Fines in Dubai

RTA Website: The official RTA website features a specific section for paying traffic fines. To access this service, users must enter vehicle details or their traffic file number to view and settle outstanding fines. Multiple payment options are available on the website, including credit and debit cards.

Dubai Police Website: Similarly, the Dubai Police website provides an online payment platform for traffic violations. Users need to input their vehicle information or find specifics to complete the transaction.

DubaiNow App: The DubaiNow app is an all-encompassing mobile application offering access to various governmental services in Dubai, which includes making payments for traffic fines. Its intuitive design allows users to easily check and pay their penalties using preferred methods of payment.

How to check Abu Dhabi traffic fines online

There are three official websites to check your Abu Dhabi traffic fine online:

1. Abu Dhabi Police Website

On the Abu Dhabi Police website one can easily check and pay traffic fines. Steps to check your fine:

1. Visit the Abu Dhabi Police website
2. Go to Traffic Services
3. Click on the Traffic Services section under the Services menu.
4. You will see the "Traffic Fines Inquiry and Payment" option, click on that.
5. Enter your details: like Traffic Code Number (TCN), Vehicle Plate Number, or Driver’s License Number to retrieve fine details.
6. When you enter all the information click on "Search" or "Submit."
7. Your all outstanding traffic fines associated with the entered details will appear on display.

How To Pay:

• Review the list of fines and select the ones you wish to pay by checking the appropriate boxes.
• Click on the "Pay" button. You will be redirected to a payment gateway.
• Enter your credit card or debit card information and complete the payment process.
• Once the payment is successful, you will receive a confirmation receipt.

2. Abu Dhabi Police Mobile App

The Abu Dhabi Police app is a convenient platform to check and pay traffic fines on your smartphone. Here's how to use it:

1. Download the app from the App Store or Google Play Store.
2. Create an account: If you don't have an account, create one
3. Go to the ‘Traffic Services’ section or the ‘Fines’ section.
4. Enter vehicle or violation details
5. Here you will find a list of outstanding traffic fines

How to pay

Select your preferred payment option (credit/debit card, online banking, etc.). Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the payment securely. You will receive a confirmation message with a receipt for the payment for your records. The entire outstanding traffic fines against your vehicle will then be shown. You can also see the violation time, place, and fine for each penalty.

3. Check Traffic Fine On TAMM website

The TAMM website provides an easy service for checking traffic fines in Abu Dhabi. Follow these steps:

1. Access the TAMM website
2. Go to the Drive and Transport section
3. Click on the Traffic Fine Payment service
4. Sign in with UAE PASS option
5. Enter your Emirates ID number to log in
6. Allow access from the "UAE PASS App" on your mobile phone.
7. Now you can check the traffic fines associated with your vehicles and driving license.

How to Pay:

To pay any outstanding fines, select the desired fines and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the payment process. ou can easily check and pay your traffic fines through the convenient TAMM platform.

How To Check Traffic Fines on TAMM Mobile App

You can also view your traffic fines on the TAMM mobile app. follow these steps:

1. Download the TAMM app
2. Login using your Emirates ID
3. Go to the Drive and Transport section
4. Click on the Traffic Fine Payment service
5. Here you will find a list of traffic fines associated with your vehicles and driving license.

How to Pay

To pay any outstanding fines, select the desired fines and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the payment process.

Once you have viewed your traffic fines, you can pay them online using a credit or debit card.