Dubai Police recorded 27,756 traffic violations in October 2026 through smart traffic monitoring systems, detecting offences involving mobile phone use, distracted driving and failure to wear seat belts.
Police warned that these violations put road users at risk and increase the likelihood of accidents resulting in deaths and injuries.
Brigadier Juma Salem bin Suwaidan, Director of the General Department of Traffic at Dubai Police, said the monitoring systems had detected and documented violations with accuracy.
He said the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and technology into traffic monitoring allows police to identify driving behaviours that may be difficult to detect through conventional enforcement methods.
The systems also help improve compliance with traffic regulations and support efforts to reduce accidents.
Dubai Police warn against distracted driving and mobile phone use
Brigadier bin Suwaidan warned that distraction while driving can lead to accidents, even when motorists take their attention away from the road for a few seconds.
He explained that a lapse in concentration could cause drivers to lose control of their vehicles or fail to respond to changes in traffic conditions.
These situations include vehicles stopping without warning, pedestrians crossing roads and changes in traffic flow, which could result in collisions involving vehicles or pedestrians.
Using mobile phones to make calls, browse social media, read messages or write texts while driving reduces concentration and affects a motorist’s ability to respond to emergencies, he said.
“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.
Dubai Police stress importance of wearing seat belts
Brigadier bin Suwaidan also urged motorists and passengers to wear seat belts, stressing their role in reducing injuries during collisions.
He said seat belts help prevent vehicle occupants from being thrown against the interior of a car or ejected from the vehicle during an impact.
Wearing a seat belt should be viewed as a measure to protect lives rather than simply a way to avoid fines, he added.
Police urged drivers to ensure that all passengers have fastened their seat belts before beginning their journeys.
Dubai traffic fines: AED 800 for distracted driving, AED 700 for seat belt violations
Dubai Police reiterated the fines imposed for offences involving distraction and failure to wear seat belts.
Under the penalties highlighted by police, motorists face an AED 800 fine for using a mobile phone or being distracted while driving.
Drivers who fail to wear a seat belt face a fine of AED 700.
Brigadier bin Suwaidan said the penalties are intended to discourage motorists from committing violations and encourage compliance with traffic laws.
Dubai Police to expand AI traffic monitoring on roads and highways
Dubai Police plan to increase the number of traffic monitoring devices and extend their deployment across roads within the emirate and highways, Brigadier bin Suwaidan said.
The expansion will allow police to detect violations and driving behaviours across more locations.
He explained that the initiative forms part of a strategy to improve traffic enforcement, reduce accidents and address behaviours that contribute to collisions.
AI-based monitoring will continue to support traffic patrols in identifying motorists who violate road safety regulations.
Dubai Police warn of action against repeat traffic offenders
Brigadier bin Suwaidan said Dubai Police would take action against motorists who repeatedly violate traffic regulations, drive in a manner that puts others at risk or disregard road safety laws.
He emphasised that protecting lives and ensuring community safety remain priorities for the force.
Traffic patrols and monitoring systems will continue to identify offenders and take legal action without exception, he said.
Motorists who endanger others through negligence or failure to comply with traffic regulations will not be tolerated, he added.
Traffic monitoring aims to change driver behaviour, not just issue fines
Brigadier bin Suwaidan clarified that the purpose of increasing traffic monitoring is not limited to issuing fines.
He said the initiative seeks to change driving habits, encourage motorists to take responsibility for their behaviour and improve compliance with traffic regulations.
Following traffic rules is a means of preventing accidents and protecting lives and property, he explained.
Dubai Police will also continue awareness campaigns alongside monitoring and enforcement efforts to encourage drivers to comply with the law.
Dubai Police urge motorists to maintain focus and follow traffic rules
Brigadier bin Suwaidan called on motorists to avoid using mobile phones while driving, remain attentive and ensure that all passengers wear seat belts.
He also advised drivers to maintain a distance from vehicles ahead and remain focused throughout their journeys.
“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 traffic awareness campaigns, monitoring and enforcement to reduce accidents and protect motorists, passengers, pedestrians and other road users.
The force reiterated that compliance with traffic regulations and avoiding distractions are necessary to prevent collisions, injuries and deaths.
