Step-by-Step Procedure
Follow these verified steps in chronological sequence to avoid common administrative delays or fines:
Step 1: Learn Dubai Standard Highway Speed Limits
Sheikh Zayed Road (E11 urban section): 100 km/h (radars trigger at 121 km/h). Sheikh Zayed Road (outer south towards Abu Dhabi): 120 km/h (radars trigger at 141 km/h). Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road (E311) & Emirates Road (E611): 110–120 km/h (radars trigger at 131–141 km/h). Al Khail Road (E44): 100 km/h (radars trigger at 121 km/h). Residential / Downtown streets: 40–60 km/h.
Step 2: Recognize the 20 km/h Speed Buffer Rule
Dubai Police configures automated speed cameras to provide a 20 km/h cushion to facilitate fluid traffic overtaking. However, exceeding the buffer even by 1 km/h triggers an instant radar fine starting at AED 300 to AED 600.
Step 3: High-Alert Warning: The Dubai-Abu Dhabi Border Transition
When driving south on E11 into Abu Dhabi near Ghantoot, look for the official border signs. The posted speed changes to 140 km/h, but ABU DHABI HAS ZERO BUFFER. Driving at 141 km/h will trigger an automatic radar fine immediately.
Step 4: Obey Dynamic Electronic Overhead Signs
During heavy fog, rainfall, or highway accidents, Dubai Police and RTA activate variable message gantries lowering the speed limit to 80 km/h. When variable speed signs illuminate, radars automatically re-calibrate to the lowered limit (80 km/h + buffer).
Required Documents Checklist
Ensure you have the following credentials ready before initiating this service:
Official Fees Breakdown
The following figures reflect official government tariffs verified at publication time with zero markups:
| Fee Component | Amount (AED) | Notes & Validity |
|---|---|---|
| Exceeding speed limit by <= 20 km/h (past buffer) | AED 300.00 | 0 black points |
| Exceeding speed limit by <= 30 km/h (past buffer) | AED 600.00 | 0 black points |
| Exceeding speed limit by <= 40 km/h (past buffer) | AED 700.00 | 0 black points |
| Exceeding speed limit by <= 50 km/h (past buffer) | AED 1000.00 | 0 black points |
| Exceeding speed limit by <= 60 km/h (past buffer) | AED 1500.00 | 6 black points |
| Exceeding speed limit by > 60 km/h | AED 2000.00 | 12 black points + 30 days impound |
| Exceeding speed limit by > 80 km/h | AED 3000.00 | 23 black points + 60 days impound |
Expected Processing Timeline
Radar capture: Instantaneous. SMS citation notice: 24 to 48 hours.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Driving at 140 km/h on Dubai sections posted at 100 km/h thinking the buffer is 40 km/h — the buffer is strictly 20 km/h.
- Assuming the 20 km/h buffer exists in Abu Dhabi — Abu Dhabi radars flash at 1 km/h over the posted sign.
- Ignoring the minimum speed limit on highways: driving below 60 km/h in the fast lane on Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road (E311) is a fineable offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
If the posted sign reads 80 km/h, the radar is calibrated to capture vehicles traveling at 101 km/h or faster. Driving up to 100 km/h does not trigger a fine, although police advise staying at or near posted limits.
Yes. Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah all maintain the standard 20 km/h speed buffer above posted limits. Abu Dhabi is the only emirate that has eliminated the buffer.
Yes. On major highways such as Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road and Emirates Road, there is a legal minimum speed limit of 60 km/h. Slower vehicles must use the rightmost lanes.
No. Possessing, importing, or using radar detection devices or laser jammers is strictly illegal under UAE federal law and results in device confiscation, heavy fines, and criminal court referral.
Residential areas, school zones, and inner community streets are strictly limited to 25 km/h to 40 km/h to protect pedestrians.
Official Sources & Verification References
Every procedure, tariff, and fine in this guide was directly verified on the following official portals:
- https://www.dubaipolice.gov.ae (Official Portal)
- https://www.rta.ae (Official Portal)
- https://u.ae (Official Portal)
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