Explained: Why you must pay traffic fines before residency visa renewal in Dubai

Dubai: Dubai residents with pending traffic fines will no longer be able to renew, cancel, or transfer their residency visas, according to a major new policy announced by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA). The rule ties residency-related procedures directly to traffic fine payments via a newly launched electronic system integrated with Dubai Police.

Under a pilot initiative rolled out by GDRFA, all residency visa-related transactions such as renewal, cancellation, or transfer are now electronically linked to Dubai Police’s traffic fines system.

All outstanding traffic fines must be paid before a residency-related request is submitted. Applications filed without settling fines will be rejected.

This policy currently applies to individuals renewing residency visas, residents cancelling their visas, and applicants requesting visa transfers or status modifications.

According to Lieutenant General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of GDRFA, the aim is to encourage respect for local laws and reduce the rising trend of traffic fine evasion.

Dubai Police Website www.dubaipolice.gov.ae

Dubai Police App

RTA website www.rta.ae

Smart kiosks – Sahl (Check UAE Pass for locations)

Dubai Now app

Online banking portals and apps, ATM machines

Customer Happiness Centres of RTA or Dubai Police

Emirates Post Offices

GDRFA has assured that instalment plans are available for those with high penalty amounts.

Check for pending fines on the Dubai Police app or website,

Settle all dues before applying for any visa-related service,

Contact authorities if the amount is too high – instalment options are available,
Always keep your fine payment receipt or digital confirmation handy when applying for residency services.