DUBAI, Aug 18: Motorists in Dubai who follow too closely risk fines, black points and vehicle impoundment, police said, as authorities stepped up measures to curb one of the most dangerous driving habits on the emirate’s roads.

Under traffic rules, drivers caught tailgating face a fine of Dh400 ($109), four black points on their licence, and the impoundment of their vehicle for 30 days. Despite repeated awareness campaigns, Dubai Police said many motorists continue to leave insufficient space between vehicles, raising the risk of rear-end collisions and multi-car accidents.

To improve compliance, police have deployed artificial intelligence-powered radar systems on major roads to detect violations, including tailgating, sudden lane changes, driving on hard shoulders, and crossing solid lines. The system automatically records offences and issues fines.

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority advises motorists to apply the “two-second rule” to maintain a safe distance, extending to three or four seconds in poor weather or at higher speeds. Officials said maintaining adequate space between vehicles is key to reducing accidents and easing road congestion.