Sharjah's Traffic Point Amnesty for Eid

Traffic Penalty Program in Sharjah: Pre-Eid Al Etihad Initiative

In the United Arab Emirates' transport policy, increasing emphasis is placed on measures aimed at motivating citizens towards compliant behavior, while alleviating the burdens of past violations with financial incentives. Sharjah's latest announcement serves this dual purpose: the emirate has introduced the possibility of canceling traffic "black points" for cases where drivers settle their traffic fines before or during the holiday season.

Why is this initiative special?

The system of black points in the United Arab Emirates is used to record the severity of traffic violations. Each violation incurs a specific number of points, and if their total reaches a certain limit, the person's license may be temporarily suspended, or their vehicle may be impounded.

The Sharjah Police have now decided to cancel the black points related to traffic fines paid between December 1 and January 10 — except for those linked to severe, dangerous violations. The measure was born on the occasion of the country's 54th Union Day, for which the entire country is preparing with spectacular celebrations.

Forgiveness for the Past, Discounts for the Future

One of the most important features of the initiative is that it only affects violations that occurred before December 1, 2025. The goal is clear: to give drivers the opportunity to start afresh, provided they take responsibility and pay their fines during the designated period.

At the same time, the previously announced 35% discounts remain in effect, applying to the monetary part of the fine, the duration of vehicle detention, and the detention fee — if the payment is made within 60 days from the date of the violation. Those who settle their debt beyond 60 days but within a year receive a 25% discount, though this applies only to the monetary fine. It is important to note that in case of severe violations, neither the point cancellation nor financial discounts apply.

What violations are considered "severe"?

Although the police have not enumerated the excluded violations, based on UAE traffic laws, severe offenses may include:

intentional speeding significantly above the allowed limit,

running a red light,

intentional endangerment (forcing another vehicle off the road, racing),

driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs,

driving without a license.

These violations usually carry high fines and multiple black points, often complemented by vehicle impoundment. The amnesty announced does not apply to these cases.

What might be the police's goal with the initiative?

The Sharjah Police are not launching such a campaign for the first time, aiming to encourage compliance and positive behavior. With the festive season approaching, this step is particularly timely: it gives motorists the chance to rid themselves of financial and administrative burdens while improving overall traffic morale. The cancellation of black points allows many drivers' licenses to "clear up," avoiding more serious consequences.

However, the police have also made it clear that there will be no similar grace period for future violations, thus encouraging everyone to permanently switch to a safe, responsible driving style.

Will Dubai and other emirates follow suit?

Sharjah's initiative once again raises the question of whether other emirates, especially Dubai and Abu Dhabi, will introduce similar incentive systems during the festive season. In recent years, there have been several instances where one emirate quickly followed another's example. The public has clearly received these steps positively, as they not only save money but also strengthen trust and cooperation between citizens and law enforcement agencies.

Conclusion and Lessons

The period between December 1 and January 10 is a special opportunity for motorists in Sharjah: if they pay their pre-2025 traffic fines in time, they can rid themselves of the associated black points — provided they are not among severe violators. The existing 35% and 25% fine discounts remain in effect, so significant financial reliefs are also expected.

The police's goal is not punishment, but the establishment of a responsible, safe traffic culture. Those who seize this opportunity now not only can shed the burdens of the past but also lay the foundations for a new, more conscious approach to driving.

(Source of the article: Sharjah Police statement.)