How long is a car impounded for after a traffic offence in the UAE?

The length of vehicle impoundment in the UAE depends on the specific offence, because the UAE Federal Traffic Law sets different impoundment periods for different violations rather than a single fixed time. For some breaches the impoundment is short and the car is released once fines are cleared and documents provided; for more serious offences, such as severe speeding, reckless driving, or modifications, the law fixes a minimum period during which the vehicle cannot be released even if you pay. The most serious cases can involve longer impoundment or confiscation ordered through the prosecution or court. Enforcement is handled by the emirate police (for example Dubai Police, Abu Dhabi Police), so the exact duration for your case should be confirmed with the authority that impounded the vehicle. Because precise periods vary by offence and emirate, do not rely on a single number, check your specific violation directly. If the impoundment period is long or you believe it was wrongly imposed, you can compare verified UAE legal professionals on LEXAI who handle impoundment matters.