Sharjah Now Offers Major Traffic Fine Discount for Paying on Time

The Sharjah Executive Council has approved a new traffic fine discount system aimed at encouraging timely payments while cracking down on high-risk driving behaviors. The updated policy, which took effect this week, offers financial incentives for early fine settlement but excludes 40 major violations linked to serious road accidents and fatalities.

New Discount Scheme Introduced

Under the revised system, motorists can receive a 35% discount on their total traffic fine, including impound and release fees, if they pay within 60 days of the violation. A 25% discount applies to fines paid within one year, although this does not include impound-related charges.

No Leniency for 40 Major Offenses

However, 40 serious traffic violations are specifically excluded from the discount policy. These include:

• Exceeding speed limits by over 60 or 80 km/h
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Causing death or serious injury in an accident
• Running red signals (light or heavy vehicles, motorcycles)
• Illegal overtaking and dangerous swerving
• Failing to stop after an accident
• Distracted driving or the use of a mobile phone
• Blocking emergency vehicles or school buses
• Operating noisy or improperly loaded vehicles

According to Colonel Abdulrahman Mohammed Khater, Deputy Director of the Security Media Department at Sharjah Police, “These aren’t just mistakes — they’re behaviours that cost lives. Excluding these violations from the discount is meant to send a clear message.”

Pedestrians Also Held Accountable

For the first time, the new rules extend penalties to pedestrians who violate traffic laws. Offenses like jaywalking or ignoring pedestrian signals will now result in fines tied to their Emirates ID numbers. Plainclothes and uniformed patrols are already monitoring both motorists and pedestrians across the emirate.

The policy is part of a wider initiative in partnership with the Sharjah Roads and Transport Authority, which includes upgrades to pedestrian crossings, installation of new traffic signals, and enhanced signage in high-risk areas.