Dubai Police Issue Nearly 50,000 Fines for Expired Vehicle Registration in 2026

Brigadier Juma Salem bin Suwaidan, director of the traffic department at Dubai Police, has issued a stern warning regarding the significant risks associated with driving vehicles that have expired registration. This warning comes as the force reported issuing close to 50,000 fines to motorists in the first ten months of 2026 for failing to comply with registration laws.

Brig. bin Suwaidan emphasized that vehicles with expired registration are not subjected to essential safety checks, thereby increasing the dangers for drivers. He highlighted that annual inspections, a mandatory requirement for cars older than three years in Dubai during renewal, are crucial for identifying potential issues with critical components like tires, brakes, lighting, and steering systems.

Motorists who disregard these regulations face substantial penalties, including fines of up to Dh500, four black points on their driving license, and a seven-day vehicle impoundment. Furthermore, since vehicle insurance is contingent upon valid registration, the police chief cautioned that drivers involved in accidents with expired registration could encounter additional financial and legal complications.

Dubai Police reported issuing 48,950 fines in the first ten months of 2026. January saw the highest number of penalties with 6,977, followed by February (6,768) and March (6,573). July recorded the next highest monthly total with 6,404 fines, while August (4,859), September (4,763), and October (4,056) also saw significant numbers. April had 2,601 fines, and May recorded the lowest monthly total with 984.

Brig. bin Suwaidan urged vehicle owners to promptly settle any outstanding traffic fines to prevent accumulation. He pointed to the convenient online services offered by Dubai Police and other government entities, such as the Roads and Transport Authority, which allow motorists to check and pay fines and complete registration renewal procedures with ease.

The traffic chief advised drivers to regularly verify their vehicle registration and insurance expiry dates, schedule technical inspections in a timely manner, and ensure their vehicles remain roadworthy. He stressed that drivers have a dual responsibility: to adhere to the law and to protect lives and property by maintaining their vehicles and preventing accidents.