Authorities in Abu Dhabi are launching a rigorous new campaign targeting disruptive and excessively loud vehicles on the emirate's roads. The police have issued stern warnings, backed by substantial fines and penalties, to curb noise pollution and promote safer driving habits.
Hefty Fines and Penalties for Disruptive Driving
The Abu Dhabi Police have made it clear that operating a vehicle causing excessive noise is a serious offence. Motorists found violating this rule face a fine of Dh2,000 and a deduction of 12 black points from their driving licence under Article 20 of the Traffic and Circulation Law. This penalty can severely affect a driver's record and future insurance costs.
This enforcement is not merely about noise. Officials state that roaring engines and reckless driving are public safety hazards. They can distract other road users, potentially leading to accidents, and cause significant distress to residents, especially children, the elderly, and those with medical conditions in residential areas and family campsites.
Crackdown on Unauthorised Vehicle Modifications
A major focus of the campaign is on illegal vehicle alterations. Police are specifically targeting unauthorised modifications to engines, exhausts, or chassis that amplify sound. Drivers who make such changes without approval risk a Dh1,000 fine, 12 traffic points, and vehicle impoundment for up to 30 days as per Law No. 5 of 2020.
The consequences for impounded vehicles are severe. Owners must pay a Dh10,000 release fee. If a vehicle remains unclaimed for three months, authorities may auction it off. This action was demonstrated in early 2025 in Al Ain, where police seized 106 heavily modified vehicles for causing noise disturbances.
Community Role and Broader Safety Goals
The police are encouraging a community-assisted approach to enforcement. Residents can report noisy or disruptive vehicles by calling the emergency number 999. This initiative underscores that public cooperation is vital for creating safer, quieter neighbourhoods.
While the campaign affects car enthusiasts who enjoy modified vehicles, police reiterate that any enhancement amplifying noise or altering performance without authorisation is illegal. The crackdown is framed as part of a wider UAE trend to enhance road safety, curb uncivilised behaviour, and ensure community well-being and traffic order.
For drivers in Abu Dhabi, compliance is straightforward:
- Avoid excessive revving or loud acceleration, particularly in residential zones.
- Refrain from installing unauthorised modifications to engines or exhaust systems.
- Be mindful of noise levels at family campsites and sandy outskirts.
- Report genuinely disruptive vehicles through official channels.
As 2026 approaches, these measures signal Abu Dhabi's commitment to prioritising public safety and peace over individual driving habits, ensuring the emirate's streets remain safe and serene for all.
