DUBAI // Dubai Police collected more than Dh1 billion in traffic fines last year - Dh140 million more than in 2009.
Col El Naim Al Khatib, of the Dubai Police Financial Administration, attributed the increase to better collection methods.
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However, many offenders had still not paid their fines.
"This number represents only 70 per cent from the actual value of the fines issued," Col Al Khatib said.
More than 20 per cent of the offences were committed by drivers from other emirates - about Dh210m worth, he said.
"Dh10m was registered and collected from violators from GCC countries," he said.
He said police had made it easier in recent years to pay fines. As of last week, offenders could even pay using an iPhone application.
"We have set up electronic kiosks, stands in malls and e-payment options over the past few years," he said.
To help collect the outstanding 30 per cent of fines issued, payments will now be accepted at all police stations.
"Previously, payments were only accepted at the general traffic department outlets or headquarters, in addition to the e-services, but now the public can simply pay their fines at any police station," Col Al Khatib said.
The initiative has been tested since May 15 in six of Dubai's nine police stations, he said.
"We have set up the electronic systems in all police stations except Jebel Ali, Bur Dubai and Hatta for the testing period and have achieved great results," he said.
More than Dh750,000 worth of fines were paid during the trial period, which ended on June 30, he said.
"We have customer service officers at all the stations who have been trained in servicing the requirements of the public in regard to this matter, and this will provide a great geographical advantage for the public," he said.
The public will not have to pay at their local station, he said. They can complete applications for instalment plans, discounts or objections at any of the facilities.
Col Al Khatib said that only Dh16m worth of last year's fines were registered under the instalment plan.
More than Dh600m was paid in cash, while the rest was paid using credit cards in person or online.
Police kiosks can be found around the city, and Col Al Khatib said more were planned.
"We are planning to implement more kiosks and stands in different malls, shopping centres and government buildings around the city," he said.
Earlier this month, Lt Gen Dahi Khalfan Tamim, the Dubai Police chief, announced that for three months from September 4, a 30 per cent discount would be offered on traffic fines.
Col Al Khatib said offenders could either pay the full fine in instalments or pay the discounted amount all at once.
