A card bearing the logo of Dubai Police went viral on social media claiming that UAE tourists who violate traffic laws will be exempted from minor traffic fines. However, it was strongly refuted by Dubai Police.
Major-General Mohamed Saif Al Zafeen, Head of the Traffic Prosecution Council and Assistant Commander-in-Chief of the Dubai Police for Operations Affairs clarified they did not pardon tourists on committing minor traffic violations. Also, the card appeared to be 5 years old.
He further explained Dubai Traffic Department did pardon UAE tourists who committed minor traffic offenses few years ago to make them feel happy, but no such rule was announced recently. Moreover, if any such decision would be taken, it will be conveyed to the public through official channels.
Al Zafeen cleared the misunderstanding by commenting and thanking Dubai Police online. He also said spreading rumors without any confirmation is illegal. To avoid legal action, people should verify the news before spreading it.
The words etched on the card that went viral said:
“Dear driver, as you are a guest in the UAE and came on visit visa to Dubai, you are welcomed and we wish you a good stay. We are sorry to inform you that you are caught by radars as you did not abide by traffic law. Despite that, we will not issue you a traffic fine. We do not want to issue a fine to you, but our goal is your safety.”