A royal decree has been passed on impounding of vehicles in Dubai, UAE, to safeguard lives and property, and to ensure traffic safety and reduce accidents, a report said.

Vice President and Prime Minister, HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, in his capacity as the Ruler of Dubai, has issued Decree No. 29 of 2015, said a WAM news agency report.

The decree specified cases of administrative and obligatory impounding of vehicles.

Dubai police shall seize vehicles that participate in races on the road without prior permission. They shall also impound recreational motorcycles riding on paved roads and vehicles which effect fundamental changes with the aim to increase the speed limit or loud noise while driving, said the report.

Under the terms of the decree, Dubai Police shall seize a vehicle if the traffic fines exceed Dh6,000 ($1,633), or if it is being driven after the expiration of the licence for a period of three months without renewing it and without an acceptable excuse.

The police can also seize a vehicle which is driven recklessly or poses a danger to others, or tries to escape from the police.

It also specified the fees for impounding of vehicles, some of which amount to Dh100,000 ($27,224), for vehicles that participate in a race on the road, and Dh50,000 ($13,612) for recreational motorcycles riding on a paved road.

The decree authorises Dubai Police to auction vehicles impounded as per the provisions stipulated in Law No. 23 of 2015 on the disposition of seized vehicles in the Emirate of Dubai, if a period of not less than three months from the date of the vehicle seizure elapses without its owner taking necessary procedures to reclaim the vehicle.

The decree also states a non-national driver of a heavy-duty truck will be deported if he crosses a red light.

The Executive Council Resolution No. 3 of 2010, cancels the replacement of impounding durations of vehicles at the Dubai Police.

It also repeals any provision in any other legislation that contradicts the provisions of this decree. It shall be published in the Official Gazette and becomes effective from the date of publication, it added.