The UAE Government has announced a new set of measures to enhance road safety, effective from March 29, 2025. Under the law on traffic regulations, a range of serious penalties, including imprisonment and fines will be imposed on various traffic offenses. These deterrent measures aim to significantly reduce accidents and promote safer driving habits across the country.
Hefty Penalties for Critical Offenses
Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol or Drugs
Driving under the influence is now met with severe consequences. Offenders caught driving under the influence of narcotic or psychotropic substances may face fines up to Dh200,000, imprisonment, and a mandatory driving license suspension. For alcohol-related offenses, penalties include imprisonment, fines ranging from Dh20,000 to Dh100,000, and license suspensions [three months for the first offense, six months for the second, and cancellation upon a third violation].
Jaywalking and Pedestrian Safety
Crossing from undesignated areas, especially on roads with speed limits of 80kmph or higher, can now lead to imprisonment for a minimum of three months and fines starting from Dh10,000. If a jaywalking incident results in a traffic accident, penalties may escalate dramatically to imprisonment coupled with fines between Dh5,000 and Dh10,000.
Hit-and-Run and Failure to Provide Information
Serious consequences await those involved in hit-and-run incidents or failing to provide essential information following an accident. Such offenses, which may include fleeing from police or deliberately colliding with emergency vehicles, carry penalties of up to two years imprisonment and fines between Dh50,000 and Dh100,000.
Driving with a Suspended or Unrecognised Licence
Driving with a suspended license is now punishable by up to three months of imprisonment and a minimum fine of Dh10,000. Also, operating a vehicle on UAE roads with a foreign driving license that is not recognized in the country will incur a fine ranging from Dh2,000 to Dh10,000 for the first offense. Repeat offenses can lead to even harsher punishments, including longer jail terms and higher fines.
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Driving Without a Proper Licence
Individuals caught driving without the appropriate license or using a license meant for a different type of vehicle will face imprisonment of up to three months and fines starting from Dh5,000. For repeated violations, the law mandates imprisonment of at least three months and fines that can escalate to Dh100,000.
Causing Death Due to Negligence
In cases where negligence on the road leads to a fatality, the law imposes strict penalties. The offender will face a minimum fine of Dh50,000, with imprisonment set at no less than one year and fines starting from Dh100,000 if aggravating circumstances are present—such as running a red light, driving under the influence, or operating a vehicle with a suspended license.
Misusing Licence Plates
The misuse of license plates—whether by forging, altering, or using a defaced plate—will also attract significant penalties. Offenders can expect imprisonment and fines of at least Dh20,000, depending on the nature of the offense.
The UAE Government’s new traffic regulations are designed not only to penalize offenders but also to serve as a strong deterrent against reckless behaviour on the roads. By imposing these measures, the authorities aim to foster a safer driving environment and reduce the number of traffic-related incidents.
The updated law reinforces the message that safety on the road is paramount, and any actions that compromise the well-being of others will not be tolerated. As these regulations come into effect, all road users are urged to strictly follow to the new guidelines, ensuring a safer and more responsible driving culture across the UAE.