Abandoned Vehicle Fines in Dubai: Parking your car outside longer than necessary without appropriate attention can be very expensive. Dubai Municipality states that a vehicle that seems to be unutilized or covered with dust is not only a threat to the aesthetic appearance of the city but also can be fined Dh500. Otherwise, the issues may escalate to impoundment of vehicles and other charges.
Dubai Municipality has reiterated to motorists that not only do the abandoned or dirty cars affect the aesthetics of the city, but they also attract fines. During the first half of 2025, 1,387 vehicles and pieces of equipment were impounded by the authorities just because they were left unattended and neglected. This is all you need to know to escape a fine and how to pay one should you have already been fined.
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Why are cars getting fined?
The DU Municipality checks on neglected cars in the city regularly. Only in 2025 (in the first half), 1,387 vehicles and pieces of equipment were impounded due to abandonment. The warning messages are normally sent through SMS to the mobile phone number associated with the vehicle plate. The message states that the fines are to be paid within 3 to 15 days, depending on the place and the state of the vehicle.
How to Avoid the Dh500 Fine
Please follow these Dubai Municipality tips before travelling or leaving your vehicle idle:
- Wash your car frequently—wash your car especially prior to going on holiday to avoid the appearance of an abandoned car.
- Parking responsibility—Park in designated places always, and do not hinder cleanup activities or traffic access.
- Remove damaged vehicles or clear them—do not leave a car or vehicle that is broken down or damaged on a highway.
With these steps, you will be able to secure your car and not pay fines or get impounded.
What Happens If You’re Fined
In case your vehicle is suspected to be abandoned, then the Dubai Municipality will:
- Send a text message notification to a mobile number that you have registered with your vehicle plate.
- Provide a time frame of 3 to 15 days (depending on location and condition of vehicle) to pay the fine.
Important: If you disregard the notice, your car will be towed to the Al Awir impound yard, where, with towing and storage fees, it will cost you an extra Dh1,381 to retrieve.
How to Pay the Fine Online
To pay your neglected vehicle ticket fast and not to be impounded, you have to do the following:
- Visit www.dm.gov.ae.
- Scroll down to ‘Quick Pay.’
- Under the ‘Payment’ section, choose Clear your fines – vehicle.
- Enter your plate number, source, plate type, and plate colour.
- Click ‘Check’ to view outstanding fines.
- Pay securely using your credit or debit card.
Upon paying, the fine would have been cleared, and no additional penalties or towing would be required.
Key Takeaway
It is costly to leave a car dusty or unattended in Dubai. The most effective means of ensuring the safety of your vehicle and your wallet is by cleaning it regularly, parking properly, and paying the fines on time. Prior to travelling, ensure that you check your car in order to have a good time during your holiday.