What Does Dubai Do With Abandoned Cars?

By Alice Nichols

Have you ever wondered what happens to abandoned cars in Dubai? With the city’s high rate of car ownership, it’s not uncommon to see vehicles left to rust on the side of the road or in parking lots. But what does the government do with these abandoned cars?

Firstly, it’s important to note that abandoning a car in Dubai is illegal and can result in hefty fines and even imprisonment. The government takes this issue seriously because abandoned cars can become hazards for other drivers and pedestrians, as well as negatively impact the appearance of the city.

The Process of Removing Abandoned Cars

Step 1: When an abandoned car is reported, a team from Dubai Municipality’s Waste Management Department is sent to inspect it. They verify that the car is indeed abandoned and not just parked illegally.

Step 2: If the car is confirmed as abandoned, a notice is placed on the windshield requesting that the owner remove it within 15 days. The notice also states that if the car isn’t removed within this timeframe, it will be impounded.

Step 3: If the owner doesn’t claim the car within 15 days, it’s towed to a Dubai Municipality yard where it’s kept for an additional 30 days.

Selling Abandoned Cars

If nobody claims ownership of an abandoned car within this timeframe, it becomes property of Dubai Municipality. The government then has two options: they can either sell off parts of the vehicle or auction off the entire vehicle.

  • Selling Car Parts: If selling parts of an abandoned vehicle, they are first stripped for any valuable components such as tires or batteries. These parts are then sold at a scrap yard.
  • Auctioning Off Vehicles: If the abandoned car is in good condition, Dubai Municipality will auction it off to the public. These auctions are held regularly and are open to all residents in the UAE.

The Environmental Impact of Abandoned Cars

Abandoned cars not only create an eyesore in the city, but they also have environmental consequences. Over time, they can leak fluids such as oil and antifreeze which can contaminate soil and water sources. The metal and plastics used in cars can take hundreds of years to decompose, contributing to landfill waste.

By removing abandoned cars from the streets and properly disposing of them, Dubai Municipality is taking steps towards a cleaner and safer city. So next time you see an abandoned car on the side of the road, remember that it’s not just an inconvenience – it’s a potential hazard that needs to be dealt with responsibly.