Latest news with #LtGenMohammedAlMarri
The National
23-07-2025
- Automotive
- The National
Dubai links traffic fine payments to visa renewal
Dubai has implemented a system that links traffic fine payments to immigration services − including renewals, cancellations and changing status. People with traffic fines under their names will need to settle the payment before applying for immigration services. The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai said motorists have to settle the outstanding traffic fines, whether recorded on their driver's licence or vehicle plate, before they can renew or cancel their visas. 'This measure is intended to ensure that everyone fulfils their financial obligation to the country,' said Lt Gen Mohammed Al Marri, director general of the GDRFA, said on Wednesday. The centralised online system links immigration services with Dubai Police, allowing real-time information sharing about traffic fines. How it works The new system means that when an individual attempts to finalise an immigration-related transaction, the system checks for any outstanding traffic fines. For example, if a person wants to cancel or renew their residency then the immigration system will not accept the transaction if there are any unsettled traffic fines. People who want to change their residency status to a new employer will also need to pay any outstanding traffic fines. 'We are in the first phase of the system,' said Lt Gen Al Marri. How to pay Motorists with outstanding fines can pay by a zero-interest instalment plan through Dubai Police online services, in co-ordination with their banks. This can be accessed through the Dubai Police app and website and smart police stations. The interest-free instalment plan is only available for traffic fines of more than Dh3,000 ($817) and can be for a period of three, six or 12 months if payments are made by credit card. A direct debit card instalment plan is available for up to 24 months. 'Everybody should respect and follow the laws in the country. We will support the people by asking them to make an instalment plan for traffic fines,' Lt Gen Al Marri added. 'It'll create a change in behaviour as motorists will try to pay extra attention to their driving.' People cancelling their residential permits and leaving the country have to prove they have no liabilities at the traffic department if they have vehicles registered in their names.
UAE Moments
23-07-2025
- Business
- UAE Moments
New Dubai Rule: Unpaid Traffic Fines Could Freeze Your Visa
Dubai is testing a new system where your traffic fines might just delay your visa renewal—unless you settle them first. Don't panic though, it's not a full-on block. Instead, the system gives you a friendly nudge (or push) to clear your dues before your residency gets updated. It's a Reminder, Not a Roadblock According to the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA), the goal isn't to make your life harder. Lt Gen Mohammed Al Marri, GDRFA's chief, explained that this pilot system is simply there to remind you to pay your traffic fines. It doesn't stop your visa from being renewed—but it might slow things down unless you act. You Can Pay in Instalments Too Here's the good news: it's not a pay-all-or-nothing setup. If you're tight on cash, you can go for instalment plans. When you show up to process your residency papers, the system will show what you owe, and staff will walk you through how to settle it—all made to be user-friendly, they say. Still in Pilot Phase (So, Not Everywhere Yet) Right now, this traffic-fine-meets-visa system is still in its trial run. For example, if you're handling visa stuff at Dubai Airport's GDRFA centre, this rule won't apply just yet. Authorities say they've reviewed thousands of cases before rolling this out to make sure it works smoothly.
