Dh500 fine in UAE: Over 37,000 drivers penalised for unsafe tyres in 2024

Khaleej Times

5 days ago

With temperatures continuing to soar during the summer, authorities across the UAE urged motorists to ensure their vehicle tyres are safe and roadworthy to avoid deadly accidents.
According to the Ministry of Interior, last year alone, 20 drivers across the country were involved in road accidents caused by tyre blowouts while driving. These included 11 incidents in Abu Dhabi, seven in Dubai, and two in Ras Al Khaimah.
More than 37,900 drivers were fined in 2024 for operating vehicles with unsafe or worn-out tyres. As per the Federal Traffic Law, driving with unfit tyres carries a fine of Dh500, four black points, and a seven-day vehicle impoundment.
The violations were distributed as follows: 26,413 in Abu Dhabi, 3,316 in Dubai, 4,099 in Sharjah, 1,617 in Ajman, 1,790 in Ras Al Khaimah, 80 in Umm Al Quwain, and 599 in Fujairah, based on the Ministry's online traffic safety statistics.
Lt Colonel Rashid Humaid Bin Hindi, deputy director of the Ajman Traffic and Patrol Department, highlighted the importance of regularly checking the safety and condition of tyres, especially on highways.
He warned that tyres often fail to withstand the extreme heat during summer, leading to serious accidents. Motorists were urged to inspect tyre pressure, verify the manufacturing date, and ensure that tyres are not worn out or damaged.
He also advised drivers planning long-distance road trips to exercise extra caution. 'Drivers should understand traffic regulations at their destination, plan their route, and be ready for potential hazards. They should also know how to respond in case of a tyre burst and carry proper safety equipment in their vehicle,' Lt. Colonel Bin Hindi said.
Colonel Mohammad Alai Al Naqbi, Director of the Traffic and Patrols Department at Sharjah Police, identified five key factors contributing to tyre explosions. These include overloading the vehicle beyond the tyre's capacity, incorrect air pressure, excessive speeding that exceeds the tyre's design rating, friction between tyres and hot asphalt surfaces, and prior misuse, such as driving over unsuitable terrains. All of these significantly increase the risk of blowouts during high-temperature conditions.
Check the key factors contributing blowouts:
He stressed the need to use only high-quality, approved tyres and avoid counterfeit or second-hand options, especially during the summer.
Traffic departments in Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, and Umm Al Quwain reaffirmed their commitment to raising awareness about tyre safety in coordination with the Ministry of Interior's quarterly traffic campaigns. These initiatives aim to educate drivers on tyre maintenance, promote road safety culture, and encourage safe mobility using advanced traffic systems.
The departments also conduct seasonal awareness drives every summer, offering guidance on avoiding overloading, maintaining proper tyre pressure, and following safe driving practices. These efforts aim to protect lives and property and promote a responsible driving culture on UAE roads.