As summer vacation kicks off, residents across the UAE are raising alarm over a spike in noise pollution caused by young motorists, particularly in quiet residential neighbourhoods.
Authorities report a growing number of complaints linked to reckless driving, excessive horn use, and illegally modified vehicles blaring loud music late into the night.
Local police departments in Sharjah, Ajman, and Fujairah have launched targeted crackdowns in response to public outcry.
According to law enforcement officials, the trend tends to worsen during the summer months when young drivers take to the streets in larger numbers, often turning peaceful neighbourhoods into zones of disturbance.
Col. Mohammad Alai Al Naqbi, director of the Traffic and Patrols Department at Sharjah Police, confirmed the uptick in complaints.
“Sharjah Police are stepping up patrols in residential areas, and we won’t tolerate behaviour that disrupts public peace,” he told Khaleej Times over the weekend.
The complaints include honking at inappropriate hours, revving modified engines, screeching tyres, and loud music from car speakers.
Families say such disturbances are affecting sleep routines of children and patients, disturbing the elderly, and creating an atmosphere of stress and tension.
Motorists also report rising instances of road aggression sparked by sudden honking and blaring sound systems. Lt. Col. Rashid Humaid bin Hindi, deputy director of the Traffic and Patrols Department at Ajman Police, echoed the concern.
“These practices are disrespectful and dangerous,” he said, stressing that authorities have begun a campaign to clamp down on drivers using horns excessively or driving noisy, modified vehicles.
In Fujairah, police officials noted that excessive noise from vehicles has become the most frequent complaint this season. “This kind of behaviour is not only uncivilised but also paints a negative picture of our society,” said a senior official.
The issue has prompted a reminder about strict penalties under UAE Federal Traffic Law. Drivers found causing noise disturbances face a fine of Dh400 and four black points on their licence.
If the noise originates from a modified vehicle, the fine increases to Dh2,000 and 12 black points. Additionally, vehicles altered without proper permissions can be impounded. Owners must pay a Dh10,000 fee to release their car; if unpaid after three months, the vehicle is subject to auction.
Statistics from the Ministry of Interior show that last year, 504 fines were issued in Sharjah for disturbing noise, 117 in Ajman, and eight in Fujairah. Authorities anticipate a rise in these figures this summer if drivers fail to show restraint.
All police departments are urging residents—especially young motorists—to consider the community impact of their actions. Drivers are being asked to avoid aggressive honking and loud music near schools, hospitals, and residential zones.
“Respecting public peace is not just a legal obligation but a moral one,” said Col. Al Naqbi. “We will not hesitate to act against those who disturb it.”