Starting from March 29, 2025, the UAE enforces stricter traffic laws with enhanced penalties aimed at improving road safety.
The new federal decree law introduces hefty fines and even imprisonment for various traffic violations, from jaywalking to driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
These changes are designed to ensure a safer environment for all road users — drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists alike.
Traffic violations and fines under new UAE traffic law
Here’s a comprehensive guide to the new traffic violations and their corresponding penalties.
1. Jaywalking
Penalty:
Fine of Dh5,000 to Dh10,000 if the offence results in a traffic accident.
Imprisonment for at least three months and a fine of Dh10,000 or more for crossing in areas with speed limits of 80 km/h or higher.
2. Driving Under the Influence (DUI) of Drugs or Alcohol
Penalty for Drugs or Narcotics:
Penalties up to Dh200,000.
Imprisonment and a fine of at least Dh30,000 for the first offence.
Driving licence suspension:
6 months for first-time offenders.
1 year for second-time offenders.
Cancellation after the third offence.
Penalty for Alcohol:
Imprisonment and a fine between Dh20,000 and Dh100,000.
Licence suspension:
3 months for the first offence.
6 months for the second.
Cancellation after the third offence.
3. Hit-and-Run or Failure to Provide Information After an Accident
Penalty:
Imprisonment for up to 2 years and a fine between Dh50,000 to Dh100,000 for:
Failing to stop after an accident causing injuries.
Failing to provide details about the accident or the responsible party.
Fleeing from police officers.
Deliberately colliding with traffic control, military, or security vehicles.
4. Driving with a Suspended or Unrecognised Licence
Penalty for Driving with Suspended Licence:
Imprisonment for up to 3 months and a fine of at least Dh10,000.
Penalty for Driving with an Unrecognised Foreign Licence:
Dh2,000 to Dh10,000 for the first offence.
Imprisonment and a fine of Dh5,000 to Dh50,000 for repeated offences.
5. Driving Without a Proper Licence
Penalty:
Imprisonment for up to 3 months and a fine between Dh5,000 and Dh50,000 for driving without a valid licence or using a licence for the wrong vehicle type (e.g., driving a motorcycle with a car licence).
For repeat offenders, penalties increase to imprisonment for at least 3 months and fines ranging from Dh20,000 to Dh100,000.
6. Causing Death Due to Negligence
Penalty:
Imprisonment and a fine of at least Dh50,000 for causing a death due to negligence.
Imprisonment for at least 1 year and a fine of at least Dh100,000 if the death was caused by:
Jumping a red light.
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Driving with a suspended or cancelled licence.
Driving in a valley during floods.
7. Misuse of Licence Plates
Penalty:
Imprisonment and/or a fine of at least Dh20,000 for:
Forging or using a forged licence plate.
Distorting, altering, or obliterating the data on a licence plate.
Allowing others to use a damaged or altered licence plate.
Transferring a licence plate from one vehicle to another without proper approval.
Stay safe, stay informed
The new UAE traffic laws are designed to significantly enhance road safety for all users.
Whether you’re a driver, pedestrian, or cyclist, it’s crucial to be aware of these regulations to avoid serious penalties. By following the rules, you can help make UAE roads safer for everyone.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
