DUBAI – Dubai Police have issued a warning to motorists following the capture of multiple serious traffic offences using the city’s advanced smart camera system.
The technology, which has been implemented across Dubai’s roads, enables authorities to detect various forms of distracted driving, regardless of tinted windows or other visibility challenges.
Among the recent offenders caught by this cutting-edge system were motorists engaging in highly dangerous behaviors behind the wheel.
In a post shared on X, formerly known as Twitter, Dubai Police showcased some of the latest examples of distracted driving.
In one striking incident, a female driver was photographed holding two mobile phones — one against each ear — leaving no hands on the steering wheel.
Such reckless driving poses a significant risk not only to the driver but also to other road users, Dubai Police stated.
Another motorist, also caught by the system, was seen reading a newspaper while driving, holding the paper directly in front of her face, blocking her view of the road entirely.
These cases underline the growing concern over the dangers of inattentive driving, which is a major contributor to accidents.
Major-General Saif Muhair Al Mazrouei, director of the General Department of Traffic at Dubai Police, emphasized that these technologies are part of Dubai’s strategic mission to promote road safety and enforce traffic regulations rigorously.
“The Dubai Police are actively investing in smart traffic technologies to promote road safety and security and to enforce traffic regulations effectively,” said Al Mazrouei.
He added that the system’s ability to detect violations, even through heavily tinted windows, demonstrates its effectiveness in curbing dangerous driving habits across the city.
Dubai’s traffic cameras are equipped to capture a range of traffic violations, including failure to wear seat belts, mobile phone use, and other distractions that can endanger drivers and passengers.
According to Al Mazrouei, these violations are detected with high accuracy, allowing the police to issue appropriate penalties and reinforce safe driving practices.
Penalties for distracted driving are severe in Dubai. Drivers caught using a mobile phone behind the wheel, tailgating, or making sudden deviations can face fines ranging from Dh400 to Dh1,000, in addition to four black points on their driving records.
Repeat or serious offenders may also have their vehicles impounded for up to 30 days. Dubai’s enhanced traffic enforcement system aligns with the emirate’s long-term goal of reducing road fatalities.
Major-General Al Mazrouei noted that leveraging advanced technology in this way strengthens Dubai’s position as a leader in traffic safety and helps build a culture of responsibility on the roads.
“The use of these technologies supports Dubai’s objective of becoming a global leader in traffic safety and aligns with the strategic goal of reducing road accident fatalities,” he stated.
With these smart cameras in place, Dubai Police urge drivers to stay vigilant and avoid distractions while driving.
The system, which is constantly being upgraded, is proving effective in identifying dangerous behaviors that can lead to serious accidents. By holding drivers accountable, authorities hope to make Dubai’s roads safer for everyone.
As Dubai continues to invest in technology-driven traffic solutions, the city is setting a high standard for road safety that aligns with the UAE’s Vision 2021 and beyond, aiming to significantly decrease accident-related deaths.