For serious speeding, the UAE does not stop at a fine. From more than 50 km/h over the limit the car is impounded — for 15, 30 or 60 days depending on how fast you were. For a family that depends on one car, that is the real punishment.
Abu Dhabi: release fees up to Dh50,000
Under Abu Dhabi’s Law No. 5 of 2020, owners must pay a release fee to get back a car impounded for serious offences — up to Dh50,000 for the most dangerous ones, such as jumping a red light or reckless driving. The National reported the rule when it was introduced; Gulf News lists the same Dh50,000 for red-light violations today.
New in 2026: keep the car at home
In August 2026 Abu Dhabi Police introduced a smart vehicle seizure service: eligible owners can ask for a seized car to stay in their custody at a specified location for Dh15 a day instead of at a police facility.
How to avoid it
Nobody drives 50 km/h over the limit by accident in the city — but on an empty highway at night, with a limit that just dropped from 140 to 120, the gap closes faster than you think. Knowing the limit at the next camera, and seeing your own speed next to it, is the simplest protection.
