The UAE government has announced a new decree regulating traffic rules and penalties in the Emirates. Final decisions on legislative changes will be announced and implemented in March 2025. These changes aim to align regulations with modern global transportation industry standards.
Key changes are expected to affect driving license age requirements - currently, motorcycles can be driven from age 17, cars from 18, and heavy vehicles from 20. These age limits may be lowered, though specific changes haven't been announced yet. The amendments will also address pedestrian crossing on highways and vehicle stopping regulations. Additionally, there are plans to expand autonomous vehicle usage and streamline their inspection and licensing procedures.
Significant changes will also affect the traffic violation penalty system. In particular, stricter measures will be applied to drunk drivers. Those caught driving under the influence of alcohol will face fines ranging from AED 20K (USD 5.4K) to AED 100K (USD 27.2K) or even imprisonment. Driving under the influence of drugs or psychotropic substances will result in imprisonment and/or fines ranging from AED 30K (USD 8.2K) to AED 200K (USD 54.5K).
Driving with a suspended license will incur a minimum fine of AED 10K (USD 2.7K). In such cases, offenders may also face up to three months imprisonment.
Drivers involved in accidents who flee the scene or fail to provide necessary information to authorities will be penalized with fines ranging from AED 50K (USD 13.6K) to AED 100K (USD 27.2K) or imprisonment for up to one year. If a pedestrian causes a traffic accident, they must pay a fine between AED 5K-10K (USD 1.4K-2.7K) and may face imprisonment.
The new measures are expected to enhance road safety.