Travelers and residents in Dubai should take note of new regulations. The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) has introduced a rule linking residency visa services directly to outstanding traffic fines.
If you are planning to renew, cancel, or transfer your residency visa, all pending traffic fines must be cleared first—otherwise, your request will be automatically rejected.
Table of Contents
Visa Services Now Linked to Traffic Fine Payments
This is not just a policy update—it is now an automated enforcement system. GDRFA has integrated its platform with the Dubai Police traffic fines system, meaning any visa-related application will immediately check your traffic violation history.
If unpaid fines exist, the system will block the submission until the amount is settled.
Who Is Affected by the New Law?
This new requirement applies to:
Should you find this piece engaging, we kindly invite you to explore the wealth of content in our other articles:
- India Extends Free 30-Day E-Tourist Visa for Malaysians Until December 2026
- Australia To Increase Skilled Visa Income Thresholds From July 2025
- Common Errors During Canada Express Entry Application This Year
- Canada to Require Medical Tests Before Express Entry Applications from August 21
- Benefit of Applying For Your Canada Study Permit This Month
- Residents renewing or updating their own or dependents’ residency visas
- Individuals canceling visas due to travel or job changes
- Workers transferring sponsorship or modifying visa status
Regardless of your reason, if you are submitting a visa-related application, you must pay all outstanding traffic fines first.
Why Dubai Is Tightening the Rules
According to Lieutenant General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of GDRFA, the move is intended to reinforce the importance of obeying traffic laws and to deter fine evasion.
The principle is simple: if you want your residency documents processed, you must show compliance with local laws.
Where to Check and Pay Your Fines
Dubai offers several convenient ways to check and pay your traffic fines:
Online Options
- Dubai Police App
- Dubai Police website
- RTA website
- Dubai Now App
- Banking apps and ATMs
In-Person Services
- Emirates Post offices
- Customer Happiness Centers (RTA or Dubai Police)
- Sahl Smart Kiosks (locations found via UAE Pass app)
What If You Have a Large Fine Balance?
If your outstanding fines are too high to pay in one go, you’re not out of options. GDRFA offers installment plans in collaboration with Dubai Police.
To set up a payment plan:
- Contact Dubai Police or GDRFA
- Submit a request for a fine settlement arrangement
- Avoid ignoring fines, as they can impact future applications and lead to penalties
What Dubai Residents Should Do Now
To stay compliant and avoid disruptions in visa processing:
- Check for traffic fines through the Dubai Police app or website
- Pay all dues before submitting any visa application
- If needed, apply for an installment plan
- Keep payment receipts handy during your visa process
Dubai’s message is clear: if you want your residency paperwork approved, start by ensuring your legal responsibilities are fulfilled—on and off the road.
