Police in the UAE are intensifying efforts to address the issue of loud and modified vehicles following a noticeable rise in complaints from residents regarding disruptive engine noises, backfiring exhausts, and other sudden car sounds.

Increased Traffic Violations and Vehicle Impounds

Since the commencement of Ramadan, Dubai Police have impounded 251 vehicles and reported 524 traffic infractions, primarily for excessive noise and unauthorized modifications. Among these violations, 220 drivers were cited for generating excessive noise, while unauthorized engine modifications accounted for 304 cases. Authorities assert that such noisy vehicles pose a significant threat to road safety and undermine Dubai’s reputation as a contemporary and orderly city.

Concerns Over Road Safety

Major General Saif Muhair Al Mazrouei, Assistant Commander-in-Chief for Operations Affairs at Dubai Police, emphasized the correlation between reckless vehicle modifications and dangerous driving behaviors. “Besides causing inconvenience to residents, these actions can also be associated with risky traffic conduct that jeopardizes the safety of everyone on the road,” he remarked. He reiterated that Dubai Police are committed to addressing these violations to ensure the protection of the community and maintain road safety.

Sharjah Police Response

In tandem with Dubai’s initiatives, Sharjah Police have ramped up inspections and established additional checkpoints in response to community complaints about noisy vehicles disturbing local neighborhoods, especially during late night hours. Brigadier Khalifa Al Khassouni, Director of the Central Region Department at Sharjah Police, explained that focused operations are being conducted to identify vehicles featuring illegal modifications.

Strict Penalties for Violations

Under Local Decree No. 30 of 2023, drivers found guilty of serious traffic offenses involving excessively loud or modified vehicles face stringent penalties, including fines that can reach up to 10,000 AED if their vehicle is impounded due to unauthorized modifications. In particularly severe cases, the release fees for impounded vehicles can soar up to 50,000 AED, marking a serious commitment to discourage unlawful behavior on the roads.

In a bid to further tackle this issue, Dubai Police are enhancing their patrols and utilizing advanced technology to monitor for loud vehicles. The emirate has been implementing AI-enabled noise-detection radars throughout the city aimed at identifying vehicles that breach sound regulations. These high-tech devices measure noise levels, accurately determine the source of the disturbance, and automatically record violations when sound limits are exceeded.

With these measures, both Dubai and Sharjah are creating a comprehensive strategy to manage and curb the presence of modified vehicles, ensuring that road safety is prioritized while preserving the tranquility of residential areas. Through increased enforcement, community engagement, and technological advancements, law enforcement agencies are dedicated to fostering a safer driving environment in the UAE.