- 10 most expensive cars used by Dubai Police Force
- Why does the Dubai Police Department use supercars as police cars?
- More Than Just Speed: The True Value of Dubai's Supercar Fleet
Before we get to the poster cars, let’s address a common misconception about used vehicles of the Dubai Police Force. The Bugattis and Lamborghinis are not what you’ll see responding to a routine fender-bender in Deira or a noise complaint in a residential community. The backbone of the Dubai Police fleet, like any effective police force, is built on reliability, practicality, and fitness for purpose. The cars that do the heavy lifting are chosen for the same reasons you or I might choose a family car or a business vehicle in the UAE: they can handle the heat, parts are readily available, and they are built to last.
Think of the daily operational fleet as a masterclass in sensible automotive purchasing for the region. These are the unsung heroes of the force.
The Workhorse SUVs: Toyota and Nissan Reign Supreme
In a region where the SUV is king, it's no surprise that the Dubai Police relies heavily on them. Their commanding road presence, durability, and versatility make them perfect for the diverse terrain and urban landscape of the Emirate.
Toyota Land CruiserBahrain Toyota Land CruiserEgypt Toyota Land CruiserKuwait Toyota Land CruiserOman Toyota Land CruiserQatar Toyota Land CruiserUAE Toyota Land CruiserKSA Toyota Land Cruiser & Prado: The ToyotaUAE ToyotaKuwait ToyotaQatar ToyotaOman ToyotaBahrain ToyotaEgypt ToyotaKSA Toyota Land Cruiser is an institution in the Middle East. Its legendary reliability is not just a marketing slogan; it's a proven fact from the sands of the Empty Quarter to the bustling streets of Dubai. The Dubai Police employs both the full-size Land Cruiser and the slightly smaller Prado.
Why they're chosen: Their powerful V6 and V8 engines provide ample power for patrol duties, while their robust construction can handle everything from navigating crowded mall car parks to accessing remote desert areas. Crucially, their air conditioning systems are designed to cope with 50°C summer days without breaking a sweat—a non-negotiable feature for any vehicle in the GCC. The wide availability of parts and the ease of service at any workshop in the UAE make them a logistically sound choice. This same reliability is why so many families searching for the best SUVs in Saudi Arabia or the UAE land on the Land Cruiser.
Nissan PatrolUAE Nissan PatrolBahrain Nissan PatrolKSA Nissan PatrolKuwait Nissan PatrolOman Nissan PatrolQatar Nissan PatrolEgypt Nissan Patrol: The arch-rival to the Land Cruiser, the NissanUAE NissanBahrain NissanKSA NissanKuwait NissanOman NissanQatar NissanEgypt Nissan Patrol, is another cornerstone of the Dubai Police fleet. Loved across the GCC for its powerful V8 engine, comfortable ride, and imposing stature, the Patrol serves as a formidable patrol vehicle. It projects authority and is more than capable of keeping pace with traffic on the UAE's high-speed motorways. Its selection reflects a deep understanding of the local car culture.
Toyota FortunerUAE Toyota FortunerBahrain Toyota FortunerKSA Toyota FortunerEgypt Toyota FortunerKuwait Toyota FortunerOman Toyota FortunerQatar Toyota Fortuner: Based on the famously indestructible Hilux platform, the Toyota Fortuner offers a more budget-friendly but equally tough alternative. You'll often see these used for general patrol and transport duties, offering a great blend of SUV capability and lower running costs.
The Patrol Sedans: Efficiency and Performance
For highway patrols and urban duties where a large SUV isn't necessary, the force turns to a fleet of reliable and efficient sedans.
Nissan Altima & Maxima: These Japanese sedans are a common sight in the Dubai Police livery. They offer a great balance of comfort, fuel efficiency, and performance from their V6 engines (in the case of the Maxima). They are dependable, easy to maintain, and provide a comfortable "office" for officers on long shifts.
BMWUAE BMWBahrain BMWKSA BMWOman BMWQatar BMWEgypt BMWKuwait BMW 5 Series: For more specialized highway patrol units, you'll find the force utilizing German engineering in the form of the BMW 5 Series. These vehicles are chosen for their superior high-speed stability, handling dynamics, and advanced safety features. They provide the performance needed to manage the fast-flowing traffic on roads like the E11 and E311, bridging the gap between the standard sedans and the elite supercars. This choice reflects a need for performance, similar to what a business executive in Dubai might look for in a personal vehicle.
These vehicles are the true foundation of the Dubai Police's operational capacity. They are maintained meticulously, a key takeaway for any car owner in the region. Following proper car maintenance tips in the UAE, like regular fluid checks, AC servicing, and using high-quality tires, is just as crucial for a civilian's Toyota Camry as it is for a police force's Land Cruiser.
10 most expensive cars used by Dubai Police Force
Now, for the main event. This is the "Supercar Patrol," a collection of vehicles so exclusive and powerful they are more likely to be found in a climate-controlled private collection than on public duty. These cars serve a unique purpose, which we'll explore later, but first, let's marvel at the machinery itself.
1. Bugatti Veyron
The undisputed king of the fleet and a symbol of Dubai's limitless ambition. When the Veyron joined the force, it sent a message to the world: Dubai operates on a different level.
Background: Added to the fleet in 2014, the Veyron was, at the time, the fastest production car in the world. Its acquisition was a global headline, cementing the Dubai Police's reputation for having the most exotic fleet on earth. It's not a pursuit vehicle; it's a mobile landmark and a public relations powerhouse, often seen at The Dubai Mall or during national celebrations.
Key Specifications:
Engine: 8.0-litre, Quad-Turbocharged W16
Max Speed: 407 km/h (253 mph)
Acceleration (0-100 km/h): 2.5 seconds
Estimated Price: ~AED 6.5 Million
Special Features & Significance: The Veyron is an engineering masterpiece. Its all-wheel-drive system and massive power require specialized Michelin tires that cost a fortune to replace. An oil change is a multi-day affair costing upwards of AED 70,000. Its presence in the fleet is the ultimate statement of automotive superiority.
2. Aston Martin One-77
Rarity and bespoke luxury define the Aston Martin One-77. As its name suggests, only 77 were ever built, making the Dubai Police's example one of the most exclusive police cars in history.
Background: This is not just a car; it's a piece of rolling automotive art. The One-77 was acquired to add a touch of British elegance and extreme exclusivity to the fleet. Its presence underscores the force's role as curators of automotive greatness, not just users of high-performance vehicles.
Key Specifications:
Engine: 7.3-litre Naturally Aspirated V12
Max Speed: 354 km/h (220 mph)
Acceleration (0-100 km/h): 3.7 seconds
Estimated Price: ~AED 6 Million
Special Features & Significance: The One-77 features a full carbon-fibre monocoque chassis and a handcrafted aluminium body. Its naturally aspirated V12 was, at the time of its release, the most powerful in the world. It represents a blend of classic grand touring elegance with hypercar performance.
3. Porsche 918 Spyder
Representing the pinnacle of hybrid hypercar technology, the Porsche 918 Spyder showcases Dubai's commitment to innovation and sustainable performance.
Background: The 918 Spyder was part of the "holy trinity" of hybrid hypercars, alongside the McLaren P1 and LaFerrari. Its inclusion in the fleet in 2015 was a nod to the future of performance. It demonstrated that the Dubai Police were not just focused on brute force, but also on cutting-edge technology.
Key Specifications:
Engine: 4.6-litre Naturally Aspirated V8 + Two Electric Motors
Max Speed: 345 km/h (214 mph)
Acceleration (0-100 km/h): 2.6 seconds
Estimated Price: ~AED 5.5 Million
Special Features & Significance: The 918's complex hybrid powertrain can run in silent electric-only mode, a surreal experience for a car of this calibre. Its all-wheel-drive system, powered by the combination of the engine and electric motors, provides ferocious acceleration. It's a symbol of high-tech, green-conscious power.
4. Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4
No supercar collection is complete without a fire-breathing Lamborghini, and the Aventador is the quintessential modern bull.
Background: The Aventador was one of the early additions that helped establish the "Supercar Patrol" identity. Its aggressive, jet-fighter-inspired design and trademark scissor doors make it an instant crowd-pleaser, perfectly suited for patrolling high-profile tourist areas like Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR).
Key Specifications:
Engine: 6.5-litre Naturally Aspirated V12
Max Speed: 350 km/h (217 mph)
Acceleration (0-100 km/h): 2.9 seconds
Estimated Price: ~AED 1.8 Million
Special Features & Significance: The Aventador's screaming V12 engine is an event in itself. Its carbon-fibre monocoque provides immense rigidity and safety. In the green and white livery, it's perhaps one of the most iconic and photographed cars in the entire fleet.
5. Bentley Continental GT
The Bentley Continental GT brings a dose of unparalleled British luxury and grand touring capability to the force.
Background: While not as overtly aggressive as a Lamborghini, the Bentley offers a different kind of performance: effortless, continent-crossing speed wrapped in opulent luxury. It’s the perfect car for projecting an image of sophisticated and refined power.
Key Specifications:
Engine: 6.0-litre Twin-Turbocharged W12
Max Speed: 318 km/h (198 mph)
Acceleration (0-100 km/h): 4.6 seconds
Estimated Price: ~AED 1.2 Million
Special Features & Significance: The interior of the Continental GT is a masterpiece of leather, wood, and metal. Its all-wheel-drive system provides sure-footed performance in all conditions, and its W12 engine delivers a tidal wave of torque. It represents the more "dignified" side of the supercar fleet.
6. McLaren MP4-12C
With a direct lineage to Formula 1, the McLaren MP4-12C adds a dose of pure, clinical racing technology.
Background: McLaren's re-entry into road cars was a major event, and the Dubai Police were quick to add the MP4-12C to their stable. It showcases a different philosophy from the flamboyant Italians—one focused on lightweight construction, aerodynamic efficiency, and surgical precision.
Key Specifications:
Engine: 3.8-litre Twin-Turbocharged V8
Max Speed: 333 km/h (207 mph)
Acceleration (0-100 km/h): 3.1 seconds
Estimated Price: ~AED 1 Million
Special Features & Significance: The MP4-12C is built around a "Carbon MonoCell," a one-piece carbon-fibre tub that provides incredible strength and low weight. It also features a unique "Brake Steer" system, derived from F1, which helps it corner with incredible agility.
7. Ferrari FF
A Ferrari with four seats and four-wheel drive? The FF (Ferrari Four) was a controversial but brilliant car, and a surprisingly practical choice for a police force.
Background: The FF was added to be the "practical" supercar of the fleet. Its unique shooting-brake design offers room for four occupants and a usable boot, making it theoretically one of the more functional vehicles in the high-performance roster. It was specifically designated for female police officers, another progressive statement.
Key Specifications:
Engine: 6.3-litre Naturally Aspirated V12
Max Speed: 335 km/h (208 mph)
Acceleration (0-100 km/h): 3.7 seconds
Estimated Price: ~AED 1.2 Million
Special Features & Significance: The FF's most notable feature is its patented "4RM" four-wheel-drive system, which is lighter and more compact than traditional systems. This allows the V12-powered Ferrari to handle less-than-perfect road conditions, making it a viable all-weather supercar.
8. BMW i8
The BMW i8 looks like it drove straight out of a science-fiction movie, representing futuristic design and plug-in hybrid efficiency.
Background: Like the Porsche 918, the i8's inclusion was a forward-thinking move. It showcased the force's interest in adopting new technologies and embracing a greener future without sacrificing style. Its butterfly doors and layered design make it a standout attraction.
Key Specifications:
Engine: 1.5-litre 3-Cylinder Turbo + Electric Motor
Max Speed: 250 km/h (155 mph) (electronically limited)
Acceleration (0-100 km/h): 4.4 seconds
Estimated Price: ~AED 800,000
Special Features & Significance: The i8's "LifeDrive" architecture separates the carbon-fibre passenger cell (Life module) from the aluminium chassis containing the powertrain (Drive module). It can travel on electric power alone for short distances, making it ideal for quiet patrols in public areas.
9. Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG
A modern tribute to a timeless legend, the SLS AMG, with its iconic gullwing doors, is a guaranteed showstopper.
Background: The SLS AMG was the first car designed and built from scratch by Mercedes-AMG. Its retro-futuristic design harks back to the legendary 300 SL Gullwing of the 1950s. For the Dubai Police, it's a car that connects automotive history with modern brute force.
Key Specifications:
Engine: 6.2-litre Naturally Aspirated V8
Max Speed: 317 km/h (197 mph)
Acceleration (0-100 km/h): 3.8 seconds
Estimated Price: ~AED 1 Million
Special Features & Significance: The gullwing doors are the main attraction, but the heart of the SLS is its monstrous, hand-built V8 engine, one of the last and greatest naturally aspirated V8s ever made. Its thunderous soundtrack is unmistakable.
10. Lamborghini Urus Performante
The latest trend in the supercar world is the "Super SUV," and the Dubai Police have the king of them all: the Lamborghini Urus Performante.
Background: The addition of the Urus is a perfect reflection of the current GCC car market. High-performance SUVs are immensely popular, and the Urus combines Lamborghini's aggressive styling and performance with the practicality of a 5-seater SUV. The Performante version is lighter, lower, and more powerful than the standard Urus.
Key Specifications:
Engine: 4.0-litre Twin-Turbocharged V8
Max Speed: 306 km/h (190 mph)
Acceleration (0-100 km/h): 3.3 seconds
Estimated Price: ~AED 1.1 Million
Special Features & Significance: The Urus Performante holds the production SUV record at the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. It has a specific "Rally" mode for loose surfaces, making it, in theory, the most capable pursuit vehicle in the fleet for Dubai's diverse environment. It perfectly blends supercar DNA with everyday usability.
Why does the Dubai Police Department use supercars as police cars?
This is the million-dirham question. Is it for chasing down other supercars on Sheikh Zayed Road? The short answer is no. While these cars are technically capable, their true value lies not in pursuit, but in perception. The use of this "Supercar Patrol" is one of the most brilliant and effective public relations and community policing strategies in the world. Let's break down the real reasons.
1. Public Relations and Global Branding
First and foremost, these cars are marketing tools for the city of Dubai itself. Every time a photo of the Bugatti Veyron police car goes viral, it's free global advertising. The fleet reinforces the city's brand image: luxurious, modern, safe, and world-leading. The cars act as rolling ambassadors, projecting an image of a government that invests in the very best, which in turn builds confidence among tourists, investors, and expatriates. They have become as iconic to the Dubai tourist experience as the Burj Khalifa or the Palm Jumeirah.
2. Breaking Down Barriers and Community Engagement
This is perhaps the most important function on a local level. A traditional police car can be intimidating. A Lamborghini Aventador police car is an attraction. People, especially tourists and children, are drawn to these vehicles. They actively want to approach the officers, ask questions, and take photographs.
This simple act transforms the dynamic between the police and the public. It makes officers approachable, friendly, and part of the community fabric rather than a separate, imposing authority. You'll see these cars stationed in high-footfall areas like The Dubai Mall, City Walk, and JBR, where their primary mission is to engage with the public, answer questions, and build positive relationships. This "soft power" approach to policing is incredibly effective at fostering trust and cooperation.
3. A Powerful Deterrent
While they may not be used in daily high-speed chases, their very existence serves as a powerful psychological deterrent. The knowledge that the Dubai Police has vehicles that can outrun almost anything on the road sends a clear message to would-be reckless drivers. It says, "Don't even try." This contributes to a culture of road safety and respect for the law on the UAE's high-speed motorways, where high-performance vehicles are common.
4. Attracting Top Talent
An organization that fields the world's most impressive fleet of vehicles is an attractive place to work. The prestige associated with the Dubai Police, symbolized by these cars, helps in recruiting the best and brightest candidates to the force. It portrays the job as modern, exciting, and part of a world-class institution, which is a powerful tool in a competitive job market.
5. Reflecting the City's Standards
Dubai is a city that does not do things by halves. It aims to be number one in everything it does. The police fleet is simply another extension of this core philosophy. In a city where residents and visitors routinely drive high-performance cars from brands like Ferrari, Porsche, and McLaren, having a police force with vehicles that match or exceed these standards makes a statement. It shows that the authorities are equipped to police a high-net-worth, modern metropolis effectively.
More Than Just Speed: The True Value of Dubai's Supercar Fleet
So, there you have it. The Dubai Police car fleet is a fascinating tale of two halves. On one side, you have the dependable, rugged, and practical workhorses like the Toyota Land Cruiser and Nissan Patrol that form the foundation of law enforcement in the Emirate. On the other, you have a dazzling array of the world's most desirable supercars and hypercars.
To dismiss this "Supercar Patrol" as a mere extravagance is to miss the point entirely. It's a calculated, multi-layered strategy that pays enormous dividends. These cars are not about catching criminals at 400 km/h; they are about capturing the world's imagination. They are about building bridges with the community, marketing the city of Dubai on a global stage, and creating a police force that is as modern, ambitious, and forward-thinking as the city it serves.
For the car enthusiast in the GCC, the fleet is a source of immense pride, reflecting the region's deep-seated passion for automotive excellence. It’s a reminder that in Dubai, even the guardians of the law have impeccable taste in cars.
