From commuting and using public transport to spearheading fundraising efforts…
Dubai consistently ranks among the world’s safest cities, with the latest Numbeo report placing it as the fifth safest globally, while neighboring Abu Dhabi claims the top spot for the eighth consecutive year. This impressive safety record is largely thanks to the robust measures implemented by Dubai Police and the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). While many are familiar with the common infractions that could result in fines—such as speeding, reckless driving, or taking photos without consent—there are a few lesser-known violations that might catch you off guard.
Here are seven surprising actions that could result in a fine in Dubai.
Jaywalking
Dubai Police recently reminded pedestrians that jaywalking is a criminal offense that could result in a Dhs400 fine. Anyone caught crossing at non-designated areas may face this penalty. These fines are enforced to ensure pedestrians use safe crossing points, reducing the risk of injury.
Fundraising
Raising funds for worthy causes is a kind and generous act, but there are regulations in place to ensure that fundraising activities stay within legal boundaries. According to The National, since 2008, it has been a criminal offense to collect donations without the approval of what was formerly the Ministry of Social Affairs. This law was updated in 2015, making it illegal to donate to any unlicensed charity. You can still support important causes, but it must be done through licensed organizations like Emirates Red Crescent to prevent misuse of funds. Violating this decree can result in fines ranging from Dhs5,000 to Dhs100,000, along with potential imprisonment for one to 12 months.
Eating or drinking on the metro
The Dubai Metro has been running for 14 years now, but have you ever noticed how impeccably clean the cabins and stations are? This is due to strict regulations that prohibit eating or drinking on the trains or within the stations. If you’re caught by officials eating, drinking, or even chewing gum, you could face a Dhs100 fine. This rule applies even to water, so be sure to hydrate before entering the station or after you exit. Additional fines include a Dhs300 penalty for sleeping in undesignated areas or a Dhs100 fine for putting your feet on the seats.
Sharing photos of accidents
The UAE enforces stringent cybercrime laws, continually updating them to safeguard residents in an increasingly digital world. Significant changes to these laws were introduced in January 2022 under Federal Decree-Law No. 34 of 2021 on Combatting Rumors and Cybercrimes. One of the key updates makes it illegal to photograph victims of accidents or disasters and share those images online or through any electronic means. Violators can face fines ranging from Dhs150,000 to Dhs500,000 and may also be sentenced to up to six months in prison.
Using a car horn in a disturbing way
Whether it’s the relentless honking in Sheikh Zayed Road’s rush hour traffic or a horn blaring in the middle of the night in a quiet residential area, car horn use in Dubai can be both annoying and overused. In fact, using your horn in a disruptive manner can result in a Dhs400 fine and 4 black points on your license if caught by officials. So, use your horn wisely!
Having tinted glass beyond the permitted limit
On Thursday, July 6, 2023, 13 new traffic fines were introduced in Dubai to curb reckless driving. Among these is a Dhs10,000 fine for tinting car windows beyond the legal limit. Tinting is popular in Dubai for reducing heat and improving AC efficiency during the scorching summers. However, while car owners are allowed to tint their windows (excluding the front windshield), they must adhere to the 50 percent tint rule, as outlined in Article No. 9 of the new traffic law.
Leaving your car dirty
Since 2019, there has been a rule in place to ensure that UAE residents maintain clean vehicles. According to Dubai Municipality and reported by Khaleej Times, car owners can face a Dhs500 fine if their vehicles are left dirty for extended periods.
