As a responsible emirate, Sharjah has introduced a strategic move for the safety and motivation of the motorists in the region. The thing is, it has launched the Sharjah traffic fine discount, intending to reward fast payment. However, this law strictly excludes 40 high-risk violations from any discount.
The Sharjah Executive Council has approved this initiative, and now being implemented across the Emirate. This rule combines the financial incentives for early payment with the strictness on the dangerous driving behaviour. It shows a shift in the road policy in Sharjah to accountability and mercy.
Sharjah Traffic Fine Discount: How the Discount System Works
Colonel Abdulrahman Mohammed Khater, Deputy Director of the Security Media Department at Sharjah Police, told Gulf News, “This is a smarter system. It motivates drivers to pay quickly, be responsible, and think two times before committing any violation”.
Here are the details related to the new Sharjah Traffic Fine Discount:
- 35% discount on total fines if paid within 60 days of the violation.
- 25% discount if paid between 61 days to one year.
- The 35% discount also includes impoundment periods, release fees, and late payment penalties.
- The 25% applies only to fine amounts, excluding impound or release-related charges.
No Discounts for 40 Serious Violations
There is no doubt that Sharjah Police is supportive of this initiative. However, 40 serious violations are excluded from this initiative. So, take a look at the key violations that would not be eligible for these perks:
- Exceeding the speed limit by over 60–80 km/h
- Driving under the influence
- Causing death or serious injury
- Running red lights (by any vehicle)
- Sudden shifting
- Running from the police
- Failure to keep a safe distance from other vehicles
- Transporting passengers illegally
- Distracted driving (e.g., mobile phone use)
- Failing to give way to emergency vehicles
- Dangerous heavy vehicle practices
- Improper pedestrian interaction
- Parking violations (e.g., blocking fire hydrants or disabled spots)
Besides these violations, other violations are not eligible for the discounts. You will find the complete list on the official portal of the Sharjah police. Colonel Khater told the Gulf News, “These are not only the traffic mistakes – they are behavior that could cost lives.”
Even Pedestrians Face Penalties
Although the initiative aims to reward motorists for early payments of fines, the Sharjah police have also revealed that pedestrians are now accountable for the road safety violations. Illegal walking or ignoring the pedestrian signal could result in fines tracked through the number mentioned in their Emirates ID.
It is a part of a significant partnership with the Sharjah Roads and Transport Authority. Surprisingly, it will include the following moves:
- Upgrading pedestrian crossings
- Improved signage
- Installation of traffic signals in high-footfall areas
On this topic, Colonel Khatter said, “There are now civilian clothes and uniformed patrols across the emirate monitoring both drivers and pedestrians. Everyone has a role in road safety.”
More Than Just Discounts — It’s About Saving Lives
Colonel Khater highlights that the purpose of this initiative is not simply to collect fines, but to provide financial relief. He said, “We’ve always encouraged good behaviour. But this decision is different. It’s more organized, more effective, and gives a stronger message: follow the rules or face the punishment.”
The Traffic and Patrol Department has noted that the most recent accidents involved repeat violations that previously qualified for relief and discounts. Now, authorities aim to reduce accident rates and deaths by removing some of those.
Advice to Drivers: Pay Early, Drive Responsibly
Colonel Khatter has sent a strong message to the motorists: “Don’t wait. Pay your fines within 60 days to get the discount. But more importantly, drive safely. Be responsible. Because what matters isn’t fewer fines — it’s safer roads for everyone.”
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