Today's Edition
YOUSUF SAIFUDDIN KAPADIA, AYSHA SHAAYA (ABU DHABI)
Traffic fine discount schemes have provided much respite to millions of motorists across the UAE over the years, including Abu Dhabi’s ongoing “Pay Early, Gain Surely” campaign.
According to a recent report by Abu Dhabi Police, around 1.4 million motorists benefitted from the emirate’s campaign in 2024 alone - a 20.77% rise compared to 2023.
These schemes are part of the UAE leadership’s broader approach aimed at easing financial pressures faced by citizens and residents through practical, humanitarian measures. While most emirates announce fine discounts - up to 50% - around major national occasions and for limited periods, Abu Dhabi’s campaign has been consistently active for several years.
How the Scheme Works
The “Pay Early, Gain Surely” initiative offers motorists a 35% discount on traffic fines if they are paid within 60 days of the violation date. If the payment is made after 60 days but within one year, a 25% discount applies. However, the discount does not extend to severe violations, Abu Dhabi Police said.
In addition to the discount, the campaign enables traffic fines to be paid in interest-free instalments over a 12-month period through participating banks. The scheme applies to both vehicle and driver fines.
Abu Dhabi Police regularly issues reminders to motorists to take advantage of the scheme, reminding the public of its benefits and deadlines through a series of initiatives.
Brigadier General Mahmoud Yousef Al Balushi, Director of the Traffic and Security Patrols Directorate in the Central Operations Sector, said that the campaign seeks to promote happiness and positivity among users. He added that the Directorate has made sustained efforts to deliver services via channels equipped with advanced features that streamline user experience and enhance customer satisfaction.
The campaign also includes a broad awareness component. In collaboration with the Community Police Department, the Directorate hosts workshops and community councils, alongside awareness films that are shared via social pages, print, and broadcast media. Officers also regularly distribute informative booklets among motorists.
Colonel Musallam Mohammed Al Junaibi, Director of the Traffic Violations Collection and Follow-up Department, explained that the awareness campaigns seek to encourage vehicle owners to pay traffic fines by informing them of the benefits of early payment and the potential consequences of delays.
Easy Payment Service
In January 2024, the Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility), under the Department of Municipalities and Transport, launched an “easy payment” instalment option for settling fines issued by the ITC.
Currently, the service is available to credit card holders from First Abu Dhabi Bank, Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank, Emirates Islamic Bank, Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank (ADIB), and Mashreq Bank, provided they contact the bank within two weeks of payment to request an instalment plan.
Fines can be paid via Abu Dhabi Government’s digital platforms, including Tamm Smart App, or through in-person transactions at customer service and happiness counters.
