UAE new traffic law: 10 key changes you must know
Stricter rules in force from today
DUBAI: Starting today, motorists across the UAE must adhere to a stricter set of traffic regulations under the newly implemented Federal Decree-Law No. (14) of 2024.
The revised rules introduce tougher penalties for reckless driving, stricter enforcement of licence-related violations, and harsher punishments for offences such as hit-and-run cases and driving under the influence.
Here’s a closer look at the major changes that drivers need to be aware of.
Stricter jaywalking penalties
Crossing roads from undesignated areas now carries heavier fines and even potential jail time. The standard Dh400 fine remains in place, but if jaywalking results in an accident, offenders could face imprisonment and fines ranging from Dh5,000 to Dh10,000.
For those crossing on roads with a speed limit of 80kmph or higher, penalties escalate to a minimum of three months in jail and a fine of at least Dh10,000.
Tougher laws on drunk driving
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs carries severe punishments, including imprisonment and fines of up to Dh200,000. Specifically:
Driving under the influence of alcohol: A fine ranging from Dh20,000 to Dh100,000 and possible imprisonment. Licence suspension applies as follows:
- First offence: Three-month suspension
- Second offence: Six-month suspension
- Third offence: Licence cancellation
Driving under the influence of narcotic or psychotropic substances: Imprisonment and a fine of at least Dh30,000, up to Dh200,000. Licence suspension periods apply as follows:
- First offence: Six-month suspension
- Second offence: One-year suspension
- Third offence: Licence cancellation If an intoxicated driver causes a fatal accident, they face at least one year of imprisonment and a minimum fine of Dh100,000.
Hit-and-run punishments
Motorists involved in accidents must stop and provide information. Those who flee the scene or fail to provide details face:
- Up to two years in prison
- Fines between Dh50,000 and Dh100,000 Additionally, failing to stop after an accident resulting in injuries can lead to immediate arrest. If a hit-and-run leads to death, imprisonment and fines of no less than Dh50,000 apply. Under aggravating circumstances such as reckless driving or ignoring traffic signals, the penalty increases to at least one year in jail and a minimum fine of Dh100,000.
Driving with an invalid or suspended licence
The penalties for driving with a suspended or unrecognised licence are now stricter:
Driving with a suspended UAE licence: Up to three months in jail and/or a minimum Dh10,000 fine.
Driving with an unrecognised foreign licence:
- First offence: A fine of Dh2,000 to Dh10,000.
- Repeat offence: Imprisonment for at least three months and/or a fine between Dh5,000 and Dh50,000.
Driving without a licence
Those caught driving without a valid licence or using one meant for a different category of vehicle face:
- Imprisonment for up to three months
- Fines ranging from Dh5,000 to Dh50,000 Repeat offenders will face stricter consequences, including a minimum of three months in jail and fines of Dh20,000 to Dh100,000.
Negligence leading to fatalities
Drivers who cause a fatal accident due to negligence will face strict penalties:
- A minimum fine of Dh50,000
- In cases involving reckless driving, jumping a red light, or driving under the influence, the penalty increases to at least one year in jail and a fine of Dh100,000 or more.
Forgery or misuse of licence plates
Tampering with licence plates is now a criminal offence. Actions such as forging, altering, or using defaced plates are punishable by imprisonment and/or a fine of at least Dh20,000.
Lower minimum driving age
In a significant update, the minimum age to obtain a UAE driving licence has been lowered to 17 years. Applicants must still meet the country’s driving test requirements to be eligible.
Failing to provide information to authorities
Under Article 41, drivers who refuse to provide their name, address, or give false information at a police stop face:
- Imprisonment for up to three months.
- A fine between Dh10,000 and Dh20,000, or both penalties.
Driving in dangerous conditions
Motorists who drive in hazardous conditions, such as flooded valleys, face penalties including:
- A fine of at least Dh50,000.
- A minimum of one year in prison if the act leads to a fatal accident.
These new regulations mark a major step in enhancing road safety across the UAE. Authorities have reiterated that the penalties outlined in the law do not override any harsher punishments stipulated in other legal provisions.