Dubai Police Impound Modified Supercar, Issue Dh10,000 Fine for Illegal Exhaust Flames.

Dubai Police have taken firm action against dangerous driving behaviour after impounding a high-performance vehicle that was illegally modified to emit flames from its exhaust system while being driven at excessive speeds. Authorities stressed that public roads are not venues for reckless stunts or displays meant to attract attention, reiterating their commitment to maintaining safety for all road users.

Vehicle seized following viral social media footage

The incident came to light after traffic monitoring teams identified a video circulating widely on social media platforms. The footage showed a supercar travelling at high speed while producing flames from its exhaust, a spectacle that quickly drew public attention online. Following an internal review of the clip, Dubai Police launched an investigation to trace the vehicle and its driver.

Using digital monitoring tools and traffic surveillance systems, authorities were able to identify the car and locate its owner. The vehicle was subsequently seized and impounded, and the driver was apprehended without incident. Police confirmed that the car had undergone unauthorised mechanical alterations that caused flames to shoot from the exhaust system, in addition to producing excessive noise that disturbed other motorists.

Heavy penalties imposed under traffic laws

As a result of the violations, the vehicle was impounded in accordance with UAE traffic regulations. Authorities also imposed a release fine of up to Dh10,000, which must be paid before the vehicle can be reclaimed. Additional legal measures were taken against the driver for reckless driving, creating public disturbance, and operating a vehicle with illegal modifications.

Dubai Police stated that such behaviour poses serious risks not only to the driver but also to other road users. High-speed driving combined with unauthorised vehicle modifications significantly increases the likelihood of accidents, mechanical failure, and loss of control, especially in densely populated urban environments.

Officials emphasised that enforcement actions like these are part of ongoing efforts to curb dangerous driving habits and prevent traffic-related injuries and fatalities.

Roads are not venues for stunts, police warn

In a clear message to motorists, authorities reiterated that roads are designed for safe transportation—not experimentation or showmanship. Police warned against using public streets as stages for risky manoeuvres, loud exhaust demonstrations, or attention-seeking behaviour meant for social media exposure.

“Public roads are not a place for dangerous experiments or showing off,” authorities stated, adding that any activity that endangers lives or disrupts public order will be dealt with strictly under the law.

Dubai Police further highlighted that the widespread sharing of such videos online often accelerates enforcement action rather than avoiding it. Advanced monitoring systems and public reports allow traffic teams to identify violators even after an incident has occurred.

Legal consequences under UAE traffic regulations

Once the driver was identified and apprehended, necessary legal action was taken in accordance with applicable traffic laws and regulations. Operating a vehicle with illegal mechanical modifications, driving at excessive speed, and causing noise pollution are all considered serious violations in the UAE.

Vehicles found to be illegally modified may face prolonged impoundment, high fines, black points on the driver’s licence, and in some cases, court proceedings. Repeat offenders can face escalated penalties, including licence suspension.

Authorities have consistently warned that modifying vehicles in ways that compromise safety, increase emissions, or create excessive noise is strictly prohibited. Any alterations must comply with approved technical standards and be authorised by relevant regulatory bodies.

Why do some supercars emit flames?

The sight of flames shooting from a car’s exhaust often sparks curiosity and debate, particularly when it involves high-end sports cars or supercars. In some cases, this phenomenon can occur naturally and is referred to as afterfire.

Afterfire happens when unburnt fuel exits the engine and enters the exhaust system. When this leftover fuel comes into contact with extremely hot exhaust components or oxygen, it can ignite, producing brief bursts of flame. This effect is more commonly seen in high-performance vehicles, particularly during aggressive acceleration, rapid gear changes, or sudden deceleration.

Manufacturers of some performance cars design engines that prioritise power and responsiveness, which can occasionally result in small amounts of unburnt fuel reaching the exhaust. When this happens under specific conditions, brief flames may appear momentarily.

Natural afterfire vs illegal modifications

While occasional afterfire can occur naturally in certain high-performance vehicles, authorities stress that there is a significant difference between unintended exhaust flames and deliberately engineered flame effects.

In many cases, drivers intentionally modify their vehicles to produce flames or loud popping sounds. These modifications are designed to exaggerate afterfire effects and are often used purely for visual or auditory impact. Such changes are illegal in the UAE.

Common illegal modifications include altering the fuel delivery system so that fuel continues flowing even when it should be cut off, delaying ignition timing, or installing systems that dump excess fuel directly into the exhaust. These modifications cause fuel to ignite outside the engine, resulting in sustained flames or loud explosions.

Not only are these alterations unlawful, but they also pose serious safety risks. Flames from exhausts can ignite nearby materials, damage road surfaces, or start fires—particularly in enclosed or congested areas. Additionally, such modifications can damage the vehicle itself and significantly increase emissions.

Noise pollution and public disturbance

Beyond the visual spectacle, illegally modified exhaust systems often produce excessive noise, which is another violation under UAE law. Loud exhaust sounds can distract other drivers, increase stress levels, and disrupt residential areas, especially during late hours.

Dubai Police noted that the driver in this case caused disturbance to other road users, further compounding the seriousness of the offence. Authorities continue to encourage residents to report excessive noise or reckless driving through official channels.

Social media and enforcement

Police also addressed the growing trend of drivers filming dangerous behaviour for social media attention. While such content may gain temporary online popularity, authorities warn that it often leads directly to legal consequences.

Videos posted online leave a digital trail that can be analysed by traffic teams, making it easier to identify vehicles, locations, and individuals involved. Rather than avoiding accountability, those who share such content may unintentionally provide evidence against themselves.

Dubai Police reiterated that social media platforms are closely monitored as part of traffic safety efforts, and viral videos frequently result in investigations and enforcement actions.

Commitment to road safety

The seizure of the modified supercar reflects Dubai Police’s broader commitment to ensuring road safety and upholding traffic laws. Authorities regularly conduct inspections, patrols, and awareness campaigns to discourage dangerous behaviour and promote responsible driving.

Police urged motorists to adhere strictly to traffic regulations, avoid unauthorised vehicle modifications, and remember that safety must always come before entertainment or online attention.

Drivers who wish to customise their vehicles are advised to do so only within legal limits and through approved channels. Any modifications should be inspected and certified to ensure compliance with safety and environmental standards.

A warning to motorists

This incident serves as a reminder that reckless driving, illegal modifications, and disruptive behaviour will not be tolerated on UAE roads. The combination of high-speed driving and unauthorised mechanical alterations creates a serious threat to public safety and carries significant legal consequences.

Authorities concluded by urging all drivers—whether operating standard vehicles or high-performance cars—to act responsibly, respect the law, and prioritise the safety of themselves and others.

As Dubai continues to invest in smart traffic monitoring and enforcement technologies, police emphasised that violations are increasingly difficult to evade. The message remains clear: the road is a shared space, and dangerous displays have no place on it.