If you are driving in Dubai and intend using a dashcam, you must know all the legalities of using a dash camera in the UAE.
We look at what dashcams are, the controversy about dashcams in in Dubai, what the law says about using dashcams, and where to find the best ones.
What are dashcams?
Car dashboard cameras have become quite popular over the past few years. These cameras record videos of the road, which can prove useful in a lot of situations. Some people use it to monitor and improve their own driving, but its main purpose is to provide evidence in case of an accident.
Are dashcams legal in Dubai?
According to the Dubai Police, using dashcams in Dubai is perfectly legal; There is no law in the UAE that criminalises dashboard cameras.
In fact, the Dubai Police welcome the use of dashcams as part of the We Are Police program, urging Dubai motorists to submit any recorded photos, videos and footage of traffic violations.
However, there are some rules and regulations that the vehicle owners have to follow. The law was passed in 2016 where the Federal Traffic Council of the UAE allowed car owners to install dashcams without violating the privacy of the other motorists on the road.
What is not allowed with dashcams in Dubai?
Drivers are strictly prohibited from uploading and sharing footage of pedestrians and other drivers on Social Media or other platforms, or the uploader may face three to six months in jail and a fine of between AED 5,000 to AED 500,000.
What is legal is that the dashcam must only be used to record the road and must not be used on social media to defame another person, group, or organisation.
Recordings of dashcams in Dubai or the UAE, must exclusively be used in the case of traffic accidents and road violations, of which the photo or video must only be shared between the owner and the local authorities.
You should also be careful that you do not violate other laws (for example: stopping in the middle of traffic to record the arrest of an individual, or otherwise interfering with a traffic, police, or rescue operation.
It is also our recommendation to always inform any police or government official that they are being recorded if you believe your dashcam is recording them (either video or audio).
Things to consider while using a Car Dashcam in Dubai
There are some limitations of using a dashboard camera that you need to follow if you are living in Dubai.
USE OF CAR CAMERA RECORDING AS EVIDENCE
Since the dashcam recording is a piece of hardcore evidence, you can use the footage to report an incident or prove your innocence. Furthermore, after taking the police’s permission, you can also file your insurance and provide the recording if requested.
You can also keep a check on your speed limit and avoid speeding fines in Dubai. Other than personal gains, you can also use the recording and help the authorities investigating and controlling traffic crime.
LEGAL LIMITATIONS
If you are planning to install a car camera, you must know what you can’t do with your camera and its recordings. First and foremost, you are not allowed to post any footage on social media. Also, you are not allowed to share the images and recordings with anyone without asking the police’s permission.
Another important rule that you must keep in mind that you can’t just invade anyone’s privacy. It is a serious offence in Dubai and can lead you to some serious troubles. According to Article 378 of the UAE Penal Code, if a person takes photos in restricted areas can result in a 3-month jail or a fine of up to 5,000 AED, while publishing anyone’s picture without their consent can result in 6 months of jail custody and a fine of up to 500,000 AED. So, be responsible while using your car’s dashcam.
Recommendations for top Dashcams in Dubai
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[4K + 2.5K Dash Cam Car with STARVIS 2 and Wondrix] The VC70 offers excellent two-channel recordings with the STARVIS 2 IMX678 sensor and the very first OV Wondrix chip. It captures crisp detail and true-to-life images with 4K front and 2.5K background video, ensures perfect license plate recognition and comprehensive accident record that provides irrefutable evidence of insurance claims, making it the perfect choice for any driver who commutes and travels
[Dual HDR and Blacklight Night Vision] The VC70's dual HDR technology captures crisp images and skilfully balances lights and shadows even at high speeds. The front camera has a Blacklight night vision function that records vivid full-colour images even in the dark, while the rear camera offers improved night vision for superior clarity in the dark. This dash cam is the perfect choice for capturing important details 24/7
[5.8 GHz Wi-Fi, 30 MB per second download speed] Experience ultra-fast download speeds of up to 30 MB per second, the fastest in its class, via the VC70's built-in 5.8 GHz WiFi (laboratory tested under trouble-free conditions). The integrated GPS, which is immediately accessible via the updated RedTiger app, records your route, speed and time stamp accurately and provides irrefutable evidence if necessary. Share crisp videos on social media and adjust the settings via the app
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[4K 30FPS Ultra Clear Recording & STARVIS 2 Sensor] Equipped with a STARVIS 2 IMX678 sensor, the A119M Pro records stunning 4K 30FPS videos and captures every license plate, traffic sign and detail with exceptional clarity. Whether at high speeds or in difficult lighting conditions, the front dash cam ensures professional shooting with minimal noise and motion blur, making it an essential camera for evidence shooting and security.
[HDR & Night Vision 2.0] The advanced night vision 2.0 of the A119M Pro car camera, combined with HDR technology, improves recording in low light and balances extremely bright and dark areas. This ensures clear recognition of license plates and crisp details in tunnels, in rain or when driving at night. HDR maintains natural colours and sharpness and provides a reliable 4K video experience at any time of day.
[Compact Design & Includes CPL Filter] The A119M Pro dash cam features a compact, unobtrusive design that can be discreetly attached behind the rear view mirror for a clear view and minimal distraction while driving. A CPL filter is included as standard, which effectively reduces windshield reflections and glare from sunlight or headlights - for improved image clarity and color accuracy day and night.
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[4K + 4K + FHD recording] Equipped with three state-of-the-art cameras and STARVIS 2 technology, the A229 Ultra dash cam with dual 4K front and rear cameras plus a 1080P fisheye interior camera (210° ultra wide angle) sets new standards. It offers full coverage and crystal clear recordings for added security.
[210° ultra-wide angle interior camera] The infrared fisheye camera with STARVIS 2 IMX662 sensor delivers clear shots even at night. With four IR LEDs and 210° viewing angle, it covers the entire interior, reducing blind spots and ensuring reliable monitoring.
[Triple STARVIS 2 sensors] Thanks to three STARVIS 2 sensors, the A229 Ultra offers a wider dynamic range, superior night vision and significantly reduces noise and motion blur - for sharp videos day and night.
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[ 3 Channel Dash Cam ] The N4S dashcam simultaneously records your vehicle's front, inside, and rear in 2.7K+1440P+1440P resolution using ultra-wide-angle lenses (158°+165°+160°) for 360° coverage, to stop hit-and-runs, theft, and vandalism from every angle.
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AED500 Original price was: AED500.AED430Current price is: AED430. -14%
【4K + 1080P Dual Recording】 – The DDPAI Z50 Pro 4K dual dash cam captures ultra HD 4K (3840x2160P) front and FHD 1080P rear video, ensuring crisp details like road signs and license plates. With a 143° front and 124° rear wide-angle lens, it minimizes blind spots for comprehensive road coverage
【AI-ISP Enhanced Night Vision】 – The DDPAI car dash cam features an F1.8 aperture, 6-layer glass lens, and DDPAI's advanced NightVIS 2.0 technology for superior low-light performance. AI ISP image processing enhances night vision, ensuring clear footage even in dark environments—ideal for night driving and parking monitoring
【Ultra-Fast 5GHz WiFi 6 & App Control】– This 4K dashcam front and rear camera is equipped with cutting-edge 5GHz WiFi 6 technology, enabling ultra-fast 13MB/s transfers of 4K recorded video to your phone. Effortlessly view, download, and share footage via the DDPAI app (iOS & Android)
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[4K 30FPS + 2.5K 30FPS High-Resolution Dash Cam] The X5 Duo dual dash cam front and rear is equipped with flagship-level Sony IMX678 and IMX675 sensors for exceptional image performance. This 2-channel car dash camera records crisp 4K 30FPS front and 2.5K 30FPS rear video, delivering rich detail in low light, tunnels, and shaded roads. License plates and road details remain clear and easy to identify. Suitable for sedans, trucks, pickups, SUVs, and vans.
[6-Axis Gyro + EIS Anti-Shake Technology] Combining a 6-axis gyroscope with advanced Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS), this dash cam for cars ensures smooth, stable, and blur-free footage even on rough terrain or winding mountain roads. Paired with HDR imaging, the X5 Duo delivers enhanced color accuracy and contrast for clear, reliable, and visually balanced recordings.
[Front & Rear STARVIS 2 Night Vision] Featuring dual STARVIS 2 sensors, this dashcam front and rear camera offers outstanding night vision performance. From highway driving to city streets, details remain sharp and well-balanced. Dual HDR effectively manages highlights and shadows, producing a wide dynamic range that closely reflects real-world visibility.
