Sharjah introduces new traffic fine discounts, excludes major offences

Sharjah has announced a revised traffic fine discount system aimed at promoting timely payments while drawing a hard line against reckless driving. Approved by the Sharjah Executive Council on July 8, the new policy offers significant reductions for early settlement of fines — but explicitly excludes 40 serious traffic violations.

Under the new structure, drivers can receive a 35% discount if they clear their fines within 60 days of the violation. If paid between 60 days and one year, the discount is reduced to 25%. However, this applies only to the fine amount, excluding any impound or release fees.

The initiative is designed to boost compliance and expedite payments. At the same time, authorities are taking a tougher stance on violations deemed to pose serious risks to public safety. These offences, including excessive speeding, red light violations, DUI and failing to yield to emergency vehicles, are excluded from the discount scheme altogether.

The Traffic and Patrols Department, after conducting a detailed review of accident data, compiled a list of 40 high-risk infractions. Officials say these violations have consistently contributed to traffic accidents and fatalities in the emirate.

Some of the excluded violations include:

• Exceeding the speed limit by more than 60 km/h
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Causing death or serious injuries
• Running red lights (by any vehicle type)
• Sudden swerving or dangerous overtaking
• Failure to stop after causing an accident
• Using a mobile phone while driving
• Transporting hazardous materials without a permit
• Parking in front of fire hydrants or in disabled-designated zones

The policy also addresses vehicle-related violations, such as illegal window tinting, improper loading of heavy vehicles and unauthorized operation of industrial equipment.

Sharjah Police emphasized that the decision reflects a broader shift in the emirate’s approach to traffic management, moving from purely financial penalties to a safety-first mindset. By excluding the most dangerous violations from discounts, authorities aim to discourage repeat offenders and improve driver behaviour.

The updated discount system applies across all relevant fines issued in the emirate, with the 35% concession also covering associated penalties like vehicle impoundment and late payment fees, provided they are settled within the initial 60-day window.

The move aligns with Sharjah’s ongoing efforts to improve road safety and streamline enforcement mechanisms, combining incentives with strict accountability for serious violations.