Dubai Police have impounded 49 vehicles and 25 motorcycles while issuing 3,153 traffic violations during the 54th UAE National Day celebrations, following widespread reports of reckless and dangerous driving by some motorists.
Officials said a segment of drivers used the holiday as an opportunity to perform illegal stunts, disrupt traffic, and threaten the safety of road users, despite repeated public warnings issued prior to the celebrations.
Brigadier Juma Salem bin Suwaidan, Director of the General Department of Traffic at Dubai Police, said some young motorists turned the occasion into an excuse for dangerous behaviour. He noted that such actions not only jeopardize lives but also contradict the cultural and societal values associated with the national celebration.
He emphasized that National Day carries deep emotional significance for both citizens and residents, making it essential for celebrations to reflect responsibility and respect. Instead, footage recorded by Dubai Police showed individuals leaning out of windows, popping out of sunroofs, and driving with obstructed windshields covered in stickers and spray paint.
Police said these behaviours created serious risks on busy roads, with some motorists participating in illegal races and causing noise disturbances in residential areas.
Bin Suwaidan explained that despite targeted awareness campaigns, public advisories, and warnings shared across media platforms, a number of drivers continued to violate the rules. This non-compliance prompted the authority to take decisive action, including impounding vehicles and issuing heavy fines.
He added that such conduct does not represent the national spirit of unity and pride associated with UAE National Day. Instead, it detracts from the joy of the celebration and puts countless lives at risk.
The Dubai Police reiterated that parents play a critical role in guiding young drivers toward responsible and safe behaviour. Authorities urged families to intervene and ensure that excitement surrounding national events does not translate into life-threatening actions on the road.
To raise public awareness, Dubai Police released a video compilation highlighting the types of violations committed during the celebrations. The footage showed vehicles overcrowded with passengers, people hanging outside car windows, and cars marked with paint and stickers that obstructed visibility.
Police said the goal of sharing such visuals was to highlight the severity of these actions and discourage similar behaviour during future celebrations.
Brigadier Bin Suwaidan stressed that the police previously warned the public to celebrate in a manner befitting the country’s reputation. He said the refusal of some motorists to comply left the authorities with “no choice but to take firm measures” to maintain public safety.
General Saif Muhair Al Mazroui, Assistant Commander-in-Chief for Operations at Dubai Police, also emphasized the importance of traffic awareness. He said adherence to the law ensures that everyone can enjoy national celebrations safely and responsibly.
Al Mazroui reminded motorists of the guidelines issued ahead of the 54th Union Day, which clearly outline prohibited behaviours such as using spray paint, covering licence plates, or altering vehicle colours.
Other banned actions include applying stickers that obstruct windows, overloading vehicles, and leaning out of windows or sunroofs—common violations observed during the holiday.
He added that compliance is crucial to preserving the celebratory spirit while ensuring that festivities remain orderly and free from unnecessary risk.
Last week, Dubai Police released an advisory urging the public to celebrate responsibly and avoid actions that could lead to accidents or disruptions. The guidelines were part of a broader campaign aimed at promoting safety during the nationally significant event.
Despite these efforts, officials reported that several drivers disregarded the rules, leading to the impoundment of dozens of vehicles and thousands of recorded violations.
The authorities noted that celebrations can still be joyful, colourful, and lively without compromising safety. They encouraged residents to follow the guidelines designed to protect both the public and property.
Dubai Police also highlighted the continued need for community cooperation, urging residents to report reckless behaviour and avoid engaging in risky actions themselves. Maintaining safety, they stressed, is a shared responsibility.
Moving forward, authorities plan to intensify awareness campaigns and increase patrols during major public events to prevent repeat violations. They said stricter monitoring and enforcement will help ensure safer celebrations in future years.
Dubai Police reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining public safety while preserving the joyful spirit of national events. They stressed that National Day should be an occasion of unity, responsibility, and pride—values that must be upheld both on and off the roads.
The force thanked residents who celebrated responsibly and reminded the public that irresponsible behaviour will continue to be met with firm and decisive action.
As investigations continue into specific incidents recorded during the celebrations, authorities said the impounded vehicles will remain in police custody until legal procedures are completed and fines are settled.
They also urged the public to reflect on the importance of safe behaviour, especially during large national gatherings, where a single reckless act can have severe consequences. Dubai Police concluded by reiterating their message: celebrations should never come at the expense of safety, order, or the well-being of the community.