'I have Dh4,000 in fines': Sharjah residents thankful for discount, vow to drive safer

Khaleej Times

19 hours ago

Several motorists have expressed their gratitude after Sharjah announced a 35 per cent discount on traffic fines, calling it a relief and a chance to reset. Many admitted they had racked up fines while rushing or due to honest mistakes and now hope others will also take the opportunity to drive more responsibly.
The Sharjah Executive Council, chaired by Sheikh Abdullah bin Salem bin Sultan Al-Qasimi, announced that motorists who pay within 60 days of committing a violation will receive a 35 per cent discount.
The reduction applies not just to fines, but also to late penalties, vehicle impoundment, and storage fees. For payments made after 60 days and before one year, a 25 per cent discount on the financial penalty alone will apply.
Over Dh4,000 in fines
Sharjah resident Anurag Tari, who works in the insurance industry, said the discount was a huge relief. 'I checked yesterday, I have Dh4,290 in fines. That's a lot, especially with school fees and rent coming up,' he said.
'Most of my violations are from the morning rush, speed limits, and many parking tickets I got when I left my car on the side for just five minutes,' said Anurag, thanking the Sharjah government.
'This is a kind gesture, but it's also a wake-up call. I have learned my lesson. No more rushing or parking fines from now on,' added Anurag.
'Don't wait for discounts, follow rules'
Abdel Hakim, a Sudanese expat working at a gym as a trainer in Muweilah, said that while he appreciated the discount, he hoped all motorists would take road safety more seriously.
He has been fined twice for not wearing a seatbelt, a few times for parking and thrice for not following the lane on the highway. 'The fine for not following the lane is a dispute and I have reached out to the traffic department and they are quite helpful,' he said.
'These rules are there for a reason. I am thankful for the 35 per cent reduction, it makes a difference when you don't earn a big salary. But I also feel guilty. We shouldn't wait for offers to follow rules,' said Abdel Hakim.
He added that he now wears his seatbelt whenever he even sits in his car and pays for parking, even if it's for a few minutes. 'It's about protecting yourself and others. This is not just about money, it's about safety.'
Syed Hashim, a 39-year-old sales executive and father of two living in Al Nahda, often finds himself rushing during school drop-offs. 'I usually drop my kids near Al Ghubaiba in the mornings and then head out for shopping or errands before work,' he said.
'One day I ended up getting a Dh300 fine for blocking the road, but honestly, I was stuck because other cars had cornered me and I couldn't move even if I wanted to," he narrated.
Imran added that he has unknowingly violated rules a few times. 'Once, I drove in the truck lane while trying to avoid a congested route. And another time, I didn't pay for parking in Al Majaz 2. I thought paid parking ends at 10pm, like in most areas, but apparently it's till midnight there. I had taken the family out for dinner and came back to a fine.'
He said the new discount scheme is a huge relief. 'These may seem like small mistakes, but the fines quickly add up. I am grateful to the authorities for this decision. It gives people like me a second chance," he said.