How to Pay Traffic Fines on Rental Cars in UAE

If you are planning to rent a car in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), understanding the rules and regulations surrounding traffic fines is crucial. The country’s traffic laws promote road safety and discipline among motorists.

Knowing if they can be fined for traffic rule violations in UAE for rental cars is often confusing. If so, are they responsible for the fine? Let’s understand this in detail.

Can You Get Traffic Fines on Rental Cars in UAE?

The answer is yes. When renting a car in the UAE, paying traffic fines falls squarely on the driver’s shoulders. Traffic fines are imposed as penalties for violating traffic regulations. Law enforcement officers can issue these fines or through automated monitoring systems such as radars and cameras.

The amount of the fine depends on the severity of the violation, ranging from a few hundred dirhams for minor offenses to fines exceeding AED 3,000 for serious infractions such as excessive speeding.

In many cases, black points are also issued. If the traffic fines include black points or other serious offences, these points may be attached to your driving licence, potentially impacting your driving record.

How Do You Know About Traffic Fines on Rental Cars in the UAE?

The authorities notify Rental car companies when a traffic violation involves one of their vehicles. The companies, in turn, inform the customer about the fine and request payment.

Rental companies typically require a security deposit or credit card authorisation to cover potential fines. If a fine is incurred during the rental period, the customer will be notified and expected to pay the penalty.

You can also check for traffic fines through the ‘Dubai Police’ app or by calling the unified call centre (901). The ‘TAMM’ app or the Ministry of Interior (MOI) app (8005000) is convenient for Abu Dhabi.

Failure to settle traffic fines can have serious consequences. Rental agencies may file civil cases against delinquent customers, and outstanding fines can lead to vehicle confiscation, driving licence suspension, or even cancellation. Sometimes, you may believe a traffic fine has been issued in error. The UAE provides various channels to contest traffic fines and seek dispute resolution, which you can exercise.

What Traffic Rules Have to be Followed in the UAE?

To avoid incurring traffic fines in the UAE, it’s essential to familiarise yourself with the country’s traffic regulations.

• Driving Licence Requirements: Residents must possess a valid UAE driving licence, while tourists must have an international driving licence and a valid visa.
• Minimum Age Limit: Drivers must be at least 18 years old to operate a vehicle in the UAE, although some rental companies may have a higher age requirement of 21 or older.
• Toll Charges (Salik): The UAE operates a digital toll system, and rental cars have a unique ID for toll payments. Toll charges will be automatically billed to the rental company and reflected in your final invoice.
• Usage Limits: Rental companies impose daily, weekly, and monthly mileage limits to prevent excessive usage that could damage the vehicle.
• Driving Direction: In the UAE, traffic flows on the right side of the road, and passing occurs on the left, following the United States’ driving convention.
• Child Safety: Children aged 4 to 8 must be seated in approved car seats or booster seats in the back of the vehicle. Children under 13 are not permitted to sit in the front passenger seat.
• Seat Belt Usage: All occupants, including the driver, must wear seat belts at all times while the vehicle is moving.
• Mobile Phone Usage: Using a mobile phone while driving is strictly prohibited in the UAE.
• Speed Limits: Speed limits on highways, roads, and residential areas are strictly enforced. Adhere to the posted limits to avoid hefty fines and potential penalties.
• Drinking and Driving: In the UAE, driving under the influence of alcohol results in heavy fines, potential imprisonment, and deportation.

By familiarising yourself with these traffic regulations and driving responsibly, you can minimise the risk of incurring traffic fines and ensure a safe and enjoyable driving experience in the UAE.

How to Pay Traffic Violations Fines on Rental Cars in UAE?

You can pay the fines digitally for any traffic rule violation in three ways.

• Ministry of Interior Website: You can access a range of e-services, including traffic fine inquiries and payments, by logging into the Ministry of Interior’s website. Select the ‘Payment of Traffic Fines’ option, choose the fines you wish to settle and complete the online transaction using a debit or credit card.
• TAMM Platform: This unified digital platform grants direct access to various Abu Dhabi Government services, including traffic fine payments. Log into your TAMM account, navigate to the “Traffic Fines Payments” section, select the fines, and seamlessly complete the online transaction.
• Emirates Vehicle Gate (EVG): The EVG e-portal offers a comprehensive suite of services, from vehicle registration to efficient fine payments. Access your account, verify outstanding fines, select the ones you wish to pay, and securely complete the transaction using a credit card.

These digital platforms empower UAE residents and visitors alike, providing efficient and convenient options to settle traffic fines promptly while ensuring adherence to traffic regulations.

Conclusion

Navigating traffic fines on rental cars in the UAE requires a comprehensive understanding of the country’s traffic regulations, rental company policies, and available payment and dispute resolution options. By staying informed, adhering to traffic rules, and promptly addressing any fines, you can ensure a hassle-free and enjoyable driving experience in the UAE.

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Disclaimer: This article was last updated on 8th July 2024.