The UAE has one of the densest speed camera networks in the world. Ghost’s licensed camera database lists more than 3,900 fixed camera locations across the seven emirates — on motorways, city roads and the approaches to schools — and it is updated daily. The cameras are automatic: the fine is linked to the number plate and reaches the owner by SMS or in the police app, often days after the drive.
Two rulebooks: Abu Dhabi and everyone else
The most important thing to know is that the emirates do not set their radars the same way. Abu Dhabi removed its speed buffer in 2018: the radar triggers at 1 km/h over the posted limit, and The National confirmed in September 2026 that this zero-tolerance policy still applies. Dubai and Sharjah — and, according to Khaleej Times, the other northern emirates — commonly set their radars 20 km/h above the posted limit.
That buffer is a grace margin, not a right. It is not written into the law, it differs by road, and some cameras near schools and roadworks are set tighter. Drive to the number on the sign. We explain it in detail in the 20 km/h buffer explained.
What kinds of cameras are there?
- Fixed speed cameras on poles and gantries — the backbone of the network.
- Average speed cameras that time you between two points. See section control in the UAE.
- AI cameras that detect phone use, missing seat belts and tailgating. See AI traffic cameras.
- Variable-limit radars in Abu Dhabi that follow the limit down to 80 km/h in fog. See fog speed limits.
What does a speed camera fine cost?
The federal speeding fines apply in every emirate. Up to 20 km/h over the limit costs Dh300; from 50 km/h over, black points and impoundment start.
| Over the limit | Fine | Black points | Impound |
|---|---|---|---|
| Up to 20 km/h | Dh300 | — | — |
| 21–30 km/h | Dh600 | — | — |
| 31–40 km/h | Dh700 | — | — |
| 41–50 km/h | Dh1,000 | — | — |
| 51–60 km/h | Dh1,500 | 6 | 15 days |
| More than 60 km/h | Dh2,000 | 12 | 30 days |
| More than 80 km/h | Dh3,000 | 23 | 60 days |
| Below a posted minimum | Dh400 | — | — |
How to avoid a camera fine
Most camera fines are not the result of reckless driving but of a moment’s inattention: a limit that drops from 120 to 100, an unfamiliar road, a long straight where the speed creeps up. Three habits help:
- Read every limit sign, especially where limits change between sections and at emirate borders.
- Set cruise control to the posted limit on motorways.
- Get warned early — early enough to check your speed calmly instead of braking hard in front of the camera.
