Sharjah Executive Council Amends Law on Vehicle Impound and Auctions
Sharjah has taken a new step to improve traffic management and public services. The Sharjah Executive Council (SEC), led by His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, approved an important legal amendment during its recent meeting.
The new decision updates Resolution No. (3) of 2016. It introduces new rules for vehicles that are impounded and left unclaimed by their owners. The law now allows authorities to sell these vehicles in a public auction after three months of impoundment.
This decision reflects Sharjah’s focus on efficiency, better use of resources, and creating a safe and well-organized environment for residents.
The Leadership Behind the Decision
The meeting was chaired by Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qasimi. He is the Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, and also Chairman of the Executive Council.
Also present were:
- Sheikh Abdullah bin Salem bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and Vice Chairman of the Council.
- Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and Vice Chairman of the Council.
Their leadership shows how decisions in Sharjah are taken with care, cooperation, and focus on long-term goals.
What the Amendment Means
The original resolution in 2016 already covered how to handle impounded vehicles. But there were challenges. Many vehicles were left for long periods without being claimed. This caused storage problems and wasted space.
The new amendment makes the rules clearer:
- Three-Month Limit: Vehicles can now be sold if they remain impounded and unclaimed for three months.
- Auction Sale: These vehicles will be sold through a public auction by the Committee for the Disposal of Impounded Vehicles.
- Traffic or Criminal Cases: If the vehicle was seized in a case, it will only be sold after the case is closed or a court order is issued.
- Legal Oversight: The Public Prosecution will oversee the process to ensure transparency and fairness.
This step ensures no vehicle stays abandoned for long and that the process is clear for everyone.
Why This Change Is Important
Improving Traffic Flow and City Safety
Abandoned vehicles create problems on the streets. They block spaces, affect parking, and sometimes damage the look of neighborhoods. The new law helps keep Sharjah’s streets clean and safe.
Reducing Government Burden
Impounded vehicles take up space and resources. Authorities need to manage, maintain, and secure them. With the new law, the government can free up these resources for other services.
Clear Legal Process
The amendment gives clear timelines and legal steps. This prevents confusion about ownership and avoids long disputes.
Economic Benefits
Selling vehicles at auction creates revenue for the emirate. It also allows residents to buy vehicles at affordable prices in a legal and open process.
Supporting Sharjah’s Long-Term Vision
This amendment is not just about cars. It is part of Sharjah’s bigger plan for growth and organization.
Sharjah has set clear goals for the future:
- Better Public Services: Making government rules simple and effective.
- Sustainable Cities: Keeping urban areas safe, clean, and efficient.
- Fair Laws: Ensuring that all processes are transparent and just.
- Economic Growth: Finding new ways to support the local economy.
The new vehicle law fits these goals by creating order, reducing waste, and adding value to the economy.
Sharjah’s Record of Smart Governance
Sharjah is known for making timely decisions that support its people. In the past years, the emirate has introduced several reforms in:
- Digital government services
- Sustainability projects
- Traffic and road safety measures
This amendment continues that tradition. It shows that Sharjah adapts to new challenges quickly and effectively.
Impact on Residents
For Car Owners
If a car is impounded, the owner must act within three months. If not, the car may be sold. This rule encourages people to settle fines, cases, or paperwork on time.
For Businesses
Companies with commercial vehicles must stay updated with the new law. Failure to act in time could lead to business losses.
For Buyers
Public auctions will create new chances for residents to buy vehicles at fair prices. This can be a great opportunity for families, small businesses, or first-time car buyers.
Alignment With the UAE
Other emirates in the UAE, such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi, have similar rules about abandoned vehicles. Sharjah’s move ensures harmony with these practices while keeping its own rules suitable for local needs.
This shows how the UAE works as a united country but still allows each emirate to adapt laws based on its community.
Looking to the Future
This amendment is not the end. It is part of a larger journey to improve services. Future steps may include:
- Online systems to check vehicle impound status.
- Digital platforms for public auctions.
- Awareness campaigns to educate residents about their responsibilities.
These steps will make Sharjah even more modern, transparent, and resident-friendly.
