Your Essential Guide to Abu Dhabi Traffic Fines: Check, Pay, and Avoid Penalties

3 weeks ago · Updated 3 weeks ago

Driving in Abu Dhabi offers access to well-maintained roads and impressive infrastructure, but it also comes with a strict set of traffic laws designed to ensure the safety of all road users. Understanding and adhering to these regulations is crucial for residents, expatriates, and visitors alike. Ignorance of the law is no excuse, and traffic violations can lead to significant financial penalties, black points on your driving license, and even vehicle confiscation.

Check Your Fines Now
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Quick Facts About Abu Dhabi Traffic Fines

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Early Payment Discount

Get 35% off if fines are paid within 60 days of the violation date.

A speedometer icon with a warning sign, representing black points.

Black Points System

Accumulating 24 black points within a year leads to license suspension.

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100% No-Violation Discount

All previous fines waived if no new violations for 3 consecutive years.

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Easy Online Check

Check fines conveniently via Abu Dhabi Police or TAMM apps/websites.

Step 1: How to Check Your Abu Dhabi Traffic Fines

Regularly checking for traffic fines is a responsible habit that can help you avoid accumulating penalties and keep your driving record clean. Fortunately, the Abu Dhabi government has streamlined this process through various digital platforms.

Online Platforms for Fine Inquiry

You can easily check your outstanding traffic fines using official government websites and mobile applications. These platforms allow you to search using your Emirates ID, vehicle plate number, or driving license details.

  • Abu Dhabi Police Website & App: The official Abu Dhabi Police website (es.adpolice.gov.ae) and its dedicated mobile application (available on App Store and Google Play) are primary resources. Navigate to the 'Traffic Fines Inquiry and Payment' section, enter the required details, and any outstanding fines will be displayed.
  • TAMM Platform: The TAMM portal (tamm.abudhabi) is Abu Dhabi's unified digital platform for government services. Under the 'Drive and Transport' section, you can find 'Traffic Violations and Fines' to inquire and pay. Both the website and the TAMM mobile app require login via UAE Pass.
  • Ministry of Interior (MOI) Website & App: The UAE Ministry of Interior website and its smart application also offer services for checking and paying traffic fines across the Emirates. You'll need to log in to access these services.
  • Emirates Vehicle Gate (EVG): EVG is another government e-portal providing vehicle-related services, including traffic fine inquiries and payments. You can search for fines using your Traffic Code Number, Plate Number, or License Number.

Checking Fines via Self-Service Kiosks

For those who prefer in-person options, self-service kiosks, known as Sahl kiosks, are available across Abu Dhabi, including TAMM centers and ADNOC service stations. Simply insert your Emirates ID into the kiosk to access your vehicle details and view any outstanding fines. These kiosks also facilitate immediate payment. For a detailed guide on using these kiosks, refer to our article on Abu Dhabi Traffic Fine Check by Plate Number in Self-Service Kiosks.

Step 2: Payment Methods for Abu Dhabi Traffic Fines

Once you've identified any outstanding fines, timely payment is essential to avoid additional penalties. Abu Dhabi offers various convenient methods for settling your dues.

Paying Fines Online and via Mobile Apps

  1. Access the Platform: Visit the official Abu Dhabi Police website or app, TAMM portal/app, or MOI website/app.
  2. Log In: For most services, you will need to log in using your UAE Pass account.
  3. Navigate to Fines Section: Locate the 'Traffic Fines Payment' or similar section.
  4. Retrieve Fines: Enter your Emirates ID, driving license number, or vehicle plate number to display your fines.
  5. Select and Pay: Choose the fines you wish to pay and proceed to the secure payment gateway. Accepted methods typically include credit/debit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay, or TAMM Wallet.
  6. Confirmation: Save your payment confirmation or receipt for your records.

For direct access to TAMM's payment services, you can visit their official Pay Traffic Fines page.

In-Person Payment Options

Should you prefer to pay in person, you can visit:

  • Traffic and Licensing Department branches.
  • Happiness Centers.
  • Sahl self-service kiosks located at various public places.
Person using a touchscreen self-service kiosk to pay a traffic fine, with a virtual credit card on screen.
A close-up shot of a person's hands interacting with a modern, sleek touchscreen self-service kiosk, specifically on a payment screen showing a virtual credit card and a 'Pay Now' button for traffic fines.

Installment Plans for Traffic Fines

In some cases, motorists in Abu Dhabi may be eligible for installment plans for traffic fines, which can ease the financial burden of larger penalties. For comprehensive details on eligibility and how to apply, please refer to our dedicated guide: Abu Dhabi Traffic Fines Installments Guide.

Step 3: Understanding Traffic Fine Discounts

The Abu Dhabi government occasionally introduces discount schemes to encourage timely payment and promote responsible driving behavior. However, it's crucial to stay informed about official announcements to avoid misinformation.

Current Discount Schemes

Abu Dhabi Police offers the following standard discounts on traffic fines:

  • 35% Discount: Applicable if fines are paid within 60 days from the date of the violation. This discount typically excludes dangerous violations.
  • 25% Discount: Available if fines are paid after 60 days but within one year from the date of the violation. This also generally excludes serious offenses.

It is important to note that Abu Dhabi Police has clarified and denied rumors circulating on social media regarding a flat 50% discount on traffic fines, urging the public to rely on official sources for accurate information.

The 100% No-Violation Discount

A unique initiative in Abu Dhabi offers a 100% discount on all accumulated traffic fines for drivers who demonstrate excellent behavior. If a motorist does not commit any new traffic violations for three consecutive years, all their previous traffic fines will be waived. This program is designed to promote long-term responsible driving habits.

Seasonal and Special Occasion Discounts

Periodically, during special events or national celebrations like UAE National Day or Ramadan, authorities may announce limited-time traffic fine discounts ranging from 25% to 50%. These offers can apply to both old and new fines. Always check official channels like the TAMM app or Abu Dhabi Police platforms for the latest updates on such campaigns.

Step 4: The Black Points System Explained

Beyond monetary fines, many traffic violations in Abu Dhabi also incur black points on your driving license. This system is a critical component of the UAE's broader traffic safety strategy, serving as a deterrent against reckless driving.

How Black Points Work

Each traffic violation is assigned a specific number of black points based on its severity. These points accumulate on your driving record. The system operates on a 24-point threshold: once a driver accumulates 24 black points within a 12-month period, their driving license faces suspension. Black points remain active on your license for exactly one year from the violation date, after which they automatically expire if no further violations are recorded.

Consequences of Accumulating Black Points

Reaching the 24-point limit triggers serious consequences:

  • First Offense: 3-month license suspension.
  • Second Offense: 6-month license suspension.
  • Third Offense: 1-year license suspension, followed by a mandatory driving course and test to reinstate the license.

Serious offenses like reckless driving endangering others, driving under the influence, or excessive speeding (over 80 km/h above the limit) can lead to immediate license suspension regardless of previous point accumulation.

How to Check Your Black Points Balance

Monitoring your black points is vital. You can check your current point balance through:

  • The official Abu Dhabi Police website or app.
  • The TAMM Abu Dhabi app.
  • Emirates Vehicle Gate (EVG) portal.
  • SMS services (by sending your license number to designated numbers).
Digital dashboard showing a driver's license with a 'black points' warning and a notification for a traffic awareness course.
A stylized digital dashboard interface displaying a driver's profile, prominently featuring a 'Black Points' section with a warning icon and a number indicating points. Adjacent to it, a notification or button for 'Traffic Awareness Course' is visible.

Reducing and Clearing Black Points

While some points expire naturally after 12 months, there are proactive steps you can take:

  • Traffic Awareness Courses: Abu Dhabi Police offers traffic awareness courses. Attending and successfully completing these courses can remove up to 8 black points from your license. You typically apply through the Abu Dhabi Police app or service centers.
  • Point Transfer: In certain situations, if someone else was driving your vehicle when a violation occurred, you might be able to transfer the black points to their license, provided they agree and the police approve the transfer. This is usually allowed once a year via the TAMM website.

For more specific information on how to manage fines with black points, please see our guide: How to Pay Abu Dhabi Traffic Fines with Black Points.

Common Abu Dhabi Traffic Violations and Penalties

ViolationFine (AED)Black PointsAdditional Penalties
Exceeding speed limit by >80 km/h3,00023Vehicle confiscation (60 days)
Exceeding speed limit by >60 km/h2,00012Vehicle confiscation (30 days)
Exceeding speed limit by >50 km/h1,5006
Using mobile phone while driving8004
Not wearing a seat belt (driver or passenger)4004
Running a red light1,00012Vehicle confiscation (30 days)
Sudden swerving1,0004
Not leaving a safe distance (tailgating)4004
Not stopping at pedestrian crossings5006
Driving under the influence (alcohol/drugs)Court decides (min. 5,000)24License suspension, vehicle impoundment
Reckless driving endangering others2,00023Vehicle confiscation
Driving below minimum speed limit (e.g., Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Road)400

Note: This table lists common violations and is not exhaustive. Fines and penalties are subject to change by official authorities. Always refer to official sources for the most current information.

Abu Dhabi police officer issuing a traffic ticket to a driver, with a patrol car in the background.
An Abu Dhabi police officer, wearing a uniform, interacts with a driver who is seated in their car, discreetly handing over a traffic ticket. A modern Abu Dhabi police patrol car is parked in the background.

Step 5: How to Dispute a Traffic Fine in Abu Dhabi

If you believe a traffic fine has been issued incorrectly or unfairly, you have the right to dispute it. The process is primarily handled through official channels to ensure fairness and accuracy.

  1. Access the e-Complaints Portal: Visit the Abu Dhabi Police e-complaints portal, which is integrated within the TAMM platform. Search for and select the 'Request a Grievance for Transport Violations' service.
  2. Fill the Form: You will need to provide your personal details (Name, Emirates ID, mobile number), vehicle particulars (plate number, category, source), and the specific fine number you wish to dispute.
  3. State Your Reason: Clearly and factually explain why you believe the fine is erroneous.
  4. Attach Evidence: Crucially, provide any supporting evidence such as photos, videos (e.g., dashcam footage), or relevant documents that strengthen your case.
  5. Submit and Wait: After submitting your complaint, authorities will review your dispute. A response is typically provided within 60 days of the fine issuance. If your claims are valid, the fine may be reversed.

Consequences of Unpaid Traffic Fines

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Additional Charges

Unpaid fines may incur late fees or administrative charges, increasing the total amount due.

A driver's license and car key with a red 'X' over them, indicating renewal issues.

Renewal Issues

Outstanding fines must be paid before you can renew your driving license or vehicle ownership card.

A car being towed away, symbolizing vehicle impoundment.

Vehicle Impoundment

For certain serious offenses or persistent non-payment, your vehicle may be impounded by authorities.

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Legal Issues

Persistent non-payment can lead to further legal action, including travel bans or court proceedings.

Abstract depiction of a red 'X' mark over a pile of cash, symbolizing financial penalties and fines.
An abstract, minimalist image depicting a large red 'X' sign superimposed over a stylized pile of Emirati Dirham banknotes and coins, conveying the concept of financial penalties and the cost of fines.

Special Considerations for Rental Car Drivers

If you are driving a rental car in Abu Dhabi, it's vital to understand how traffic fines are handled:

  • Renter Responsibility: Your rental agreement will clearly state that any traffic fines, tolls, or penalties incurred during the rental period are your responsibility as the driver.
  • Administrative Fees: Rental companies typically pay the fine on your behalf to avoid additional penalties. They will then charge the fine amount to your credit card on file, often adding an administrative fee (typically AED 50-100) for processing.
  • Notification Delays: There can be a delay between the actual violation date and when the rental company notifies you, as they receive the information from the authorities.
  • Check Policies: Always review the rental company's policy on traffic fines, tolls (like Salik), and their associated administrative fees before signing the agreement.

Tips for Avoiding Traffic Fines in Abu Dhabi

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Know the Speed Limits

Pay close attention to posted speed limits, which can vary significantly between different roads and areas.

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Follow Traffic Signals

Always obey traffic lights and road signs. Running a red light is a serious offense.

Two cars maintaining a safe distance on the road.

Maintain Safe Distance

Practice safe following distances to avoid tailgating fines and prevent accidents.

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Hands-Free Driving

Refrain from using your mobile phone while driving. Use hands-free devices if necessary.

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Wear Seatbelts

Ensure all occupants of the vehicle wear seatbelts, including children in appropriate car seats.

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Stay Alert

Avoid distractions like eating or drinking, and be aware of your surroundings, especially near pedestrian crossings.

Frequently Asked Questions

You can check your fines online via the official Abu Dhabi Police website/app, the TAMM portal/app, the UAE Ministry of Interior website/app, or Emirates Vehicle Gate (EVG). You can also use Sahl self-service kiosks located at various public places.

Yes, Abu Dhabi Police offers a 35% discount for payments made within 60 days and a 25% discount for payments made within one year. There's also a unique 100% discount for drivers who commit no new violations for three consecutive years. Seasonal discounts may also be announced periodically.

Accumulating 24 black points within a 12-month period leads to license suspension: 3 months for the first offense, 6 months for the second, and 1 year for the third, followed by a mandatory driving course and test.

Yes, you can dispute a fine through the Abu Dhabi Police e-complaints portal (integrated with TAMM). You'll need to fill out a form, state your reason, and attach any supporting evidence. Authorities typically respond within 60 days of the fine issuance.

Drive Responsibly, Stay Informed

Navigating the roads of Abu Dhabi safely and responsibly is a rewarding experience. By staying informed about how to check, pay, and dispute Abu Dhabi traffic fines, recognizing the implications of the black points system, and leveraging available discounts, you can ensure a smooth and penalty-free driving experience. Always prioritize road safety, utilize the official resources for information, and contribute to making Abu Dhabi's roads among the safest in the world.

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