The penalty table
Dubai Executive Council Resolution No. 20 of 2021, which amends Resolution No. 6 of 2016, sets fines for unlicensed passenger transport. The RTA can also impound the car used in the violation for up to six months. For what counts as a carlift and the other risks, read Is carlift legal in Dubai?
| Violation | Penalty |
|---|---|
| Carrying passengers for payment in an unlicensed vehicle | Dh5,000 |
| Promoting or advertising unlicensed car services, including calling out to passengers | Dh5,000 |
| Providing on-demand or intercity car transport without authorisation | Dh5,000 |
| Conducting the transport activity without authorisation | Dh10,000 |
| Impoundment of the vehicle | Up to 6 months |
| Annual cap on fines | Dh30,000 for individuals, Dh50,000 for establishments |
Federal rules
Separately, the federal traffic law has been reported to penalise carrying passengers for hire without a licence with a Dh3,000 fine, 24 black points and 30 days of impoundment. That figure comes from an older report, so confirm the current federal penalty with the police.
Who is exposed
Private owners earning extra income, anyone advertising paid rides or deliveries on social media, and commercial operators running unlicensed fleets. Posted schedules, fares and contact numbers give inspectors evidence of a structured operation. Personal motor insurance generally excludes paid carriage, so an insurer may refuse a claim after an accident.
