Abu Dhabi’s Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) has announced revised penalties for littering in the emirate, imposing stricter fines on repeat offenders to ensure the cleanliness of public spaces.
In a statement released on Instagram on Tuesday, the authority outlined the updated list of violations and corresponding fines, with penalties reaching up to Dh4,000 for repeated offenses.
The new regulations aim to reinforce responsible waste disposal and discourage environmental damage caused by improper waste disposal.
Stricter Penalties for Repeat Offenders
Under the new rules, the fines vary based on the type of littering violation and its frequency. Among the key violations covered under the updated regulations are the improper disposal of cigarette butts, food waste, and other waste materials outside designated areas. The fines include:
- Discarding cigarette butts outside designated containers
- First violation: Dh500
- Second violation: Dh1,000
- Third violation: Dh2,000
- Disposing of personal waste from eating and drinking outside designated containers
- First violation: Dh500
- Second violation: Dh1,000
- Third violation: Dh2,000
- Leaving waste or equivalent materials in non-designated areas
- First violation: Dh1,000
- Second violation: Dh2,000
- Third violation: Dh4,000
Authorities have warned that repeated offenses will not be taken lightly, with stricter measures being imposed to deter residents and visitors from disregarding public cleanliness regulations.
Crackdown on Littering Offenses
The latest announcement follows a major crackdown on littering violations in Abu Dhabi. On the UAE’s 53rd National Day in 2024, Abu Dhabi Police issued 670 fines to individuals who engaged in littering and vandalism, including spray-painting roads.
These violations were committed by drivers, passengers, and pedestrians, prompting authorities to reinforce measures aimed at protecting public spaces.
The government continues to encourage residents to adopt responsible waste disposal habits and use designated bins for cigarette butts, food waste, and other trash.
The penalties are part of a broader initiative to maintain the emirate’s reputation for cleanliness and environmental sustainability.
Public Awareness and Compliance
Authorities have been actively promoting awareness about littering laws through social media campaigns, emphasizing the importance of preserving the environment and public hygiene.
With the new regulations in place, officials urge residents to adhere to proper waste disposal practices to avoid fines and contribute to a cleaner Abu Dhabi.
Failure to comply with these laws could result in escalating penalties, with repeat offenses leading to significantly higher fines.
The DMT has also reminded residents that similar penalties apply to those littering in public parks and beaches, with fines reaching Dh1,000 for violations in these areas.
The revised fines reflect Abu Dhabi’s ongoing commitment to environmental protection and public order.
By imposing stricter penalties, authorities aim to instill a sense of civic responsibility and ensure that the emirate remains a clean and livable city for all.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members