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Jaywalking in the UAE could be an expensive offence once the UAE imposes its updated federal decree law on traffic regulations starting March 29. The new UAE traffic law imposes stricter penalties, including Dh200,000 fines for DUI and up to Dh10,000 fines for jaywalking. Currently, jaywalking carries a fine of Dh400. However, under the new law, pedestrians crossing from undesignated areas could face a fine of up to Dh10,000 if their actions result in an accident. For crossings in areas with a speed limit of 80km/h or higher, the penalties become more severe. The punishment is a minimum of three months in jail and/or a fine of at least Dh10,000. The UAE government has emphasized that the new traffic penalties under Federal Decree-Law No. 14 of 2024 on Traffic Regulation aim to enhance road safety and deter reckless behavior. “These stricter laws will not only protect motorists but also pedestrians. It is a crucial step toward making UAE roads safer for all,” an official statement read.

Driving under the influence, hit-and-run cases

The new law enforces much stricter penalties for those caught driving under the influence of alcohol. On the first offense, the minimum fine is Dh30,000 and a six-month driving license suspension. On the second offense, the penalty is a minimum one-year license suspension. On the Third offense, the driver’s license is permanently cancelled. Those driving under the influence of narcotics or psychotropic substances, the fines go up to Dh200,000 plus mandatory imprisonment. Drivers involved in an accident who fail to stop or report the incident could face a punishment of up to two years in jail and a fine between Dh50,000 to Dh100,000. This includes those who flee the scene of an accident or fail to provide information about an accident they caused. With fines reaching up to Dh200,000, motorists and pedestrians alike are urged to be aware of the new traffic laws taking effect on March 29 and adhere to road safety regulations to avoid legal consequences and ensure safer streets across the UAE. ICA/Expat Media ALSO READ: Full list of UAE's updated traffic laws starting March 29
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