Dubai Police issue 7,735 fines for vehicle noise and illegal modifications in nine months
By Catherine Smith GST 2 min read
Between January and September 2026, Dubai Police handed out 7,735 traffic fines over loud vehicles and illegal modifications and impounded 1,630 vehicles, the force said on 21 October 2026, with plans to add more devices that detect and measure vehicle noise.
The General Department of Traffic recorded the violations as part of enforcement campaigns aimed at reducing disruptive driving, particularly in residential neighbourhoods.
| Offence (January to September 2026) | Violations | Vehicles impounded |
|---|---|---|
| Excessive noise | 2,045 | 333 |
| Unauthorised modifications to engine or chassis | 5,690 | 1,297 |
| Total | 7,735 | 1,630 |
What drivers face
Under UAE traffic regulations, driving a vehicle that causes excessive noise carries a fine of AED 2,000 and 12 black points. Making unauthorised modifications to a vehicle’s engine or chassis carries a fine of AED 1,000, 12 black points and 30 days of vehicle impoundment.
Brigadier Juma Salem bin Suwaidan, Director of the General Department of Traffic at Dubai Police, said additional measures may apply, depending on the nature and seriousness of the offence, under Dubai Decree No. 30 of 2023 concerning vehicle impoundment, including vehicle release fees in cases specified by the decree.
He described noise from cars and motorcycles, especially those with altered engines or exhausts, as a serious concern for residents, noting that it can disturb neighbourhoods, especially late at night, and that sudden or unusually loud sounds may distract drivers and other road users. According to Brigadier bin Suwaidan, increased enforcement and growing public awareness have contributed to a recent decline in excessive vehicle noise.
More noise detection devices
Dubai Police said they are preparing to increase the number of devices used to detect and measure vehicle noise, with plans to expand their deployment across roads and areas where these offences occur. The technology will help identify noise sources and the vehicles responsible. The force also pointed motorists to the Aman Roads platform for guidance on traffic safety.
What pedestrians face: an AED 400 fine
Separately, on 23 October 2026 Dubai Police announced a pedestrian safety campaign across police station jurisdictions in the emirate. Organised by the General Department of Police Stations with the General Department of Traffic, it involves officers making field visits to give pedestrians practical guidance on crossing roads safely.
Brigadier Majid Sultan Al Suwaidi, Director of the General Department of Police Stations, pointed out that under Article 89 of the Federal Traffic Law, pedestrians who disregard traffic signals or cross roads at undesignated locations face an AED 400 fine. Drivers are also being reminded to slow down and give way to pedestrians at designated crossings, particularly in busy and densely populated areas. Al Suwaidi said:
“Road safety is a shared responsibility. Everyone has a role to play in following traffic regulations and helping create safer roads for all.”
