Dubai Police have seized a supercar after it was filmed emitting flames from its exhaust while being driven at high speed on public roads, authorities confirmed. The vehicle was impounded following the circulation of a video clip on social media that sparked widespread concern among road users.
Traffic patrol teams were able to identify the vehicle after monitoring the viral footage, which showed flames shooting from the exhaust and excessive noise disturbing other motorists. Investigators traced the car and apprehended the driver shortly afterwards.
According to police, the vehicle had undergone illegal modifications designed to produce flames and loud popping sounds from the exhaust system. Such alterations are strictly prohibited under UAE traffic laws due to the danger they pose to drivers, passengers, and pedestrians.
Following the seizure, authorities impounded the vehicle and imposed a release fine of up to Dh10,000. Additional penalties were also issued against the driver for reckless driving, causing noise pollution, and endangering public safety on the road.
Dubai Police stressed that public roads are not a venue for dangerous experiments or displays intended to attract attention. Officials warned motorists that stunts, illegal modifications, and excessive speeding would be dealt with firmly and without exception.
“The road is not a place for showing off or conducting risky behaviour,” police said in a statement. “Such actions threaten lives and undermine the safety of all road users.”
Authorities added that the use of social media to showcase traffic violations has increasingly helped law enforcement identify offenders. In this case, digital monitoring systems and community reports played a key role in locating the vehicle seen in the viral clip.
Police confirmed that all necessary legal measures were taken against the driver in accordance with applicable traffic laws and regulations. The case has also been referred for further evaluation to ensure compliance before the vehicle can be released.
The incident has renewed public discussion about flames emitted from supercars, a phenomenon often seen in high-performance vehicles. Known as “afterfire,” the effect can sometimes occur naturally in powerful engines.
Afterfire happens when unburnt fuel passes into the exhaust system and ignites upon contact with hot surfaces as it exits the vehicle. This can result in brief flames or popping sounds, particularly during rapid deceleration or gear changes.
However, experts note that such occurrences are usually occasional and not sustained. Continuous flames or exaggerated popping noises are often the result of deliberate mechanical alterations rather than factory design.
Some motorists intentionally modify fuel delivery or ignition timing to force excess fuel into the exhaust system. Others install specialised systems to delay ignition, creating dramatic visual and sound effects.
Dubai Police have reiterated that these modifications are illegal in the UAE. Altering exhaust systems to create flames, excessive noise, or emissions violates safety and environmental regulations and can lead to severe penalties.
Traffic officials warned that such modifications increase the risk of fires, mechanical failure, and loss of vehicle control. They also pose a hazard to surrounding vehicles, especially in heavy traffic or confined urban areas.
The force continues to urge drivers to comply with traffic laws and maintain their vehicles in accordance with approved standards. Motorists are encouraged to report dangerous driving or illegal modifications through official channels.
Dubai Police said they will continue to intensify monitoring efforts, both on the ground and online, to curb reckless behaviour. Authorities emphasised that road safety remains a top priority, and violations will be met with strict enforcement to protect lives.