From tailgating and texting to noise pollution, these cameras catch everything in the capital
If you’ve driven through Abu Dhabi, you’ve probably noticed the numerous traffic cameras scattered across the city.
While most drivers associate these cameras with speed traps, they are far more sophisticated and keep a watchful eye on a variety of driving behaviors.
From tailgating and texting to noise pollution, these cameras catch everything. So if you want to avoid fines and protect your driving record, here’s what you need to know about the cameras monitoring Abu Dhabi’s roads.
So, if you want to avoid fines and protect your driving record, you need to read on!
HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT TRAFFIC CAMERAS ON ABU DHABI’S ROADS
Expired registration
Your car registration needs to be up to date, or a radar on Masafi Road will flag it. If your registration is over three months expired, you risk having your car impounded.
Penalties: AED 500 fine + four black points. If expired more than three months, your car could be impounded for seven days.
Speeding costs big
The classic speed cameras are everywhere in Abu Dhabi, but there’s a catch: the emirate doesn’t offer any tolerance for speeding. If the sign says 100km/h, even going 101km/h will get you fined. Forget the 20km/h buffer you might see elsewhere in the UAE.
Penalties: Fines range from AED 300 to AED 3,000, depending on how far you exceed the speed limit.
The AI is watching
Abu Dhabi’s smart cameras don’t miss a thing. Whether you’re texting or driving without your seatbelt, they’ll catch you in the act. Don’t risk it – stay focused on the road.
Penalties: AED 800 fine + four black points for texting. AED 400 fine + four black points for not wearing your seatbelt.
Excessive noise
Loud car modifications like a booming exhaust or engine revving? The noise cameras will catch you if your car makes too much noise, especially near schools, hospitals, and residential areas.
Penalties: AED 2,000 fine + 12 black points for exceeding 95 decibels.
Keep your distance
Tailgating is a dangerous habit that’s easily caught by cameras measuring the distance between vehicles. These radars are programmed to fine drivers who follow too closely.
Penalties: AED 5,400 fine + four black points.
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Always stop for pedestrians
Abu Dhabi takes pedestrian safety seriously. If you fail to stop for pedestrians at crosswalks, the cameras will take note.
Penalties: AED 500 fine + six black points.
Signal before you change lanes
If you change lanes abruptly, especially at traffic lights, there’s a radar waiting to catch you. Always use your signal when switching lanes.
Penalties: AED 1,000 fine + four black points.
The infrared trap
Red-light cameras in Abu Dhabi are equipped with infrared technology, meaning they can catch you without the bright flash that often distracts other drivers.
Penalties: AED 1,000 fine + 12 black points. Your vehicle could also be impounded for three months, with a AED50,000 release fee.
Don’t ignore the flashing lights
School buses in Abu Dhabi come equipped with cameras to catch drivers who ignore the flashing stop signs. This rule isn’t just for the safety of children – it’s the law.
Penalties: AED 1,000 fine + 10 black points.
Heavy vehicles must stay in their lane
Special cameras track trucks to ensure they stay in the designated truck lanes. If they’re found in the fast lane, you’ll get a fine.
Abu Dhabi’s traffic cameras are a crucial part of keeping the roads safe, and they’re capable of spotting even the smallest infractions.
Whether it’s speeding, using your phone, or failing to stop for pedestrians, these high-tech systems won’t let you get away with it.
Stick to the rules, and you’ll keep your fines and black points at bay – your wallet and driving record will thank you!
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