Picture for illustrative purposes only. ARCHIVE

A new UAE federal decree law on traffic regulations will come into effect on March 29, imposing tougher penalties for violations, including fines of up to Dh200,000 and potential jail time for serious offenses. From stricter rules on jaywalking to severe penalties for driving under the influence, here’s what you need to know:

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: • Punishment: Minimum of three months in jail and/or a fine of at least Dh10,000.

Driving under the influence

The new law enforces much stricter penalties for those caught driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or psychotropic substances: • First offense: Minimum fine of Dh30,000 and a six-month driving license suspension. • Second offense: Minimum one-year license suspension. • Third offense: Permanent cancellation of the driver’s license. • For narcotics or psychotropic substances: Fines up to Dh200,000 and mandatory imprisonment.

Hit-and-run cases

Drivers involved in an accident who fail to stop or report the incident could face: • Punishment: 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.

Causing death due to reckless driving

Drivers responsible for fatal accidents will face: • Punishment: Imprisonment and a fine of at least Dh50,000. • Aggravating circumstances (red-light jumping, DUI, driving with a suspended license, or driving in flood zones): Minimum jail time of one year and fines of at least Dh100,000.

Driving with a suspended or unrecognized license

Anyone caught driving with a suspended license faces: • Punishment: Up to three months in jail and/or a minimum fine of Dh10,000. Foreign licenses that are not recognized in the UAE will also result in fines ranging from Dh2,000 to Dh10,000 for first-time offenders, and harsher penalties for repeat violations.

Driving without a valid license

Motorists caught driving without a valid UAE driver’s license or using a license for the wrong vehicle type (e.g., using a car license to ride a motorcycle) will face: • Punishment: Up to three months in jail and/or fines between Dh5,000 and Dh50,000. • For repeat offenders: Jail time of at least three months and a fine between Dh20,000 and Dh100,000.

Misusing or forging license plates

Those caught tampering with license plates, using fake plates, or transferring plates without authorization will face: • Punishment: Jail time and/or fines of at least Dh20,000. The UAE government has emphasized that the new traffic penalties under the federal traffic law 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. Authorities urge all residents to adhere to road safety regulations to avoid legal consequences and ensure safer streets across the UAE. ICA/Expat Media
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