Dubai Police impound 218 vehicles over noise in October, 518 fines issued

In October, Dubai Police took 218 vehicles off the road and wrote 518 fines for excessive noise across the emirate. The figures were published on 6 November 2026 by Brigadier Juma Salem bin Suwaidan, head of the force's traffic department. He said the police intend to buy more smart detection devices and place them at additional sites in Dubai.

Offences were picked up by smart noise detectors and by officers on patrol. The warning is aimed at owners of modified vehicles that make loud sounds, at sports car drivers who rev engines on purpose, and at motorists who treat public roads and residential streets as a stage.

A driver whose vehicle makes excessive noise is fined Dh2,000 and given 12 traffic points. Altering the engine or chassis without a licence brings a Dh1,000 fine, 12 points and a 30-day impoundment. The owner must also pay Dh10,000 to get the vehicle back, as set by Dubai Decree No. 30 of 2023, which governs impoundment in the emirate.

Bin Suwaidan said that having a sports car or changing a vehicle's build does not entitle anyone to disturb public peace. He said loud vehicles can interrupt the sleep of residents, especially children, the elderly and the sick.

Police asked drivers to keep exhaust systems in good order, avoid unapproved modifications and refrain from sudden acceleration meant to produce noise, particularly at night in residential districts.

The rules apply to every driver in Dubai, including visitors who hire a luxury sports car. Loud revving in residential areas can lead to a fine and impoundment. Residents can report disruptive driving in the Police Eye section of the Dubai Police app or by calling 901.

Gulf News reported the figures, which Khaleej Times and The National also covered.