Each car is restricted in Dubai to the number of seat belts fitted to it, which is normally not greater than five passengers. Overloading carries heavy fines and black points.
Road safety laws are tight in the city of Dubai, and they are enforced. Learning about the number of people you can have legally in your car will prevent fines and allow you not to violate the laws of traffic in the UAE. This is a summary, sources, and a few examples.
Rules for Private Cars
In case of private vehicles, i.e. a sedan or a hatchback, the limit on the number of occupants shall be the same as the number of seat belts installed. In Dubai, the five-seater cars are the most common ones.
In the case of the SUVs as well as the MPVs, the maximum varies between 5 and 9 with regard to model and seat belts. You should use the owner’s manual of the vehicle; that is, the vehicle registration.
Limits for Taxis and Rideshares
Taxi and ride-hailing services (e.g. Dubai Taxi, Careem, Uber) follow the same rule—only as many passengers as seat belts. Standard taxis usually carry up to 4 passengers, plus the driver, so a limit of 5 total passengers in many cases.
Capacity for Vans and Buses
Minivans, MPVs, and family vans typically seat 7–9 passengers, including the driver. Larger buses as well as coaches can vary, with capacities up to 50‑70 passengers for full-size coaches—but these are governed by separate regulations.
Penalties for Overloading
Overloading where there are more people than seat belts is a major offence. Common penalties include:
- Fine of AED 400 or AED 500 for overloading per violation.
- Each additional passenger beyond the legal limit will be fined AED 200.
- Black points added to driver’s license (typically 4).
- The prospect of having their vehicles impounded or taken away in extreme circumstances or repeat cases.
Exceptions to the Rule
- Emergencies: In the case of an emergency at a hospital, authorities can grant additional passengers to you; however, they have to be temporary until you notify Dubai Police (e.g. 901).
- Additions and modifications: Expansion of the number of seats (e.g. to ESMA certification) needs the authorisation of the relevant authorities. Unauthorised modifications may result in fines of AED 2,000.
Updated 2025 Law Highlights
As of 2025, a mandatory restriction on passengers is prescribed only by the number of seat belts. Smart systems now detect overloaded cars automatically. Young kids under 4 years old need to sit in the back using the approved car seats, as well as kids under 10 or 145 centimetres ought to be there. Violations result in AED 400 fines as well as black points.
Comparison Chart of Passenger Limits
| Vehicle Type | Legal Max (incl. driver) | Notes | |
| Sedan / Hatchback | 5 | 5‑seat belts maximum | |
| Standard SUV | 5–7 | Depends on the model/seat belts | |
| Minivan / MPV | 7–9 | Check registration papers | |
| Taxi / Standard Rideshare | 4 passengers + driver | Standard taxi seating configuration | |
| Large Coach / Bus | 50–70 | Regulated under public transport rules |
Conclusion
In Dubai, all cars have the same number of people permitted on them as the number of seat belts that they have installed, usually no more than five in standard cars. On top of fines ranging from AED 200 to 500 per additional passenger, there are black points and even the risk of impoundment. This makes you safe, as you would know how many people could officially fit into your vehicle and adhere to correct rules (safety rules, in the case of children).
FAQs
Do children count as passengers?
Yes. Every person counts toward the limit.
Can I legally carry someone on my lap?
No. Each passenger has to possess an individual belt and a parachute seat.
Is it possible to transport 8 people in an SUV without any law violation?
It has to be a registered 7 or 8 seater with that number of seat belts and capacity on the registration.