New UAE Traffic Rules, Fines, and Penalties Set to Take Effect in March

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) government has announced a new federal decree law aimed at modernizing the country's traffic regulations. This initiative, revealed in a release from the UAE government media office on Friday, is a response to the rapid evolution of transportation methods around the world.

The new traffic regulations are set to be thoroughly discussed and finalized within the next six months, with the official details and final decisions slated for public release on March 29.

Key Focus Areas of the New Law

One of the significant aspects of the new traffic law will be the expansion of autonomous and electric vehicles in the UAE. The decree will outline specific regulations concerning the inspection and licensing processes for self-driving cars, highlighting the UAE's commitment to embracing cutting-edge technology in transportation.

Additionally, the establishment of a Federal Traffic Council is part of the new law, which will be responsible for overseeing traffic regulations. The council’s roles and responsibilities will be determined through a cabinet resolution, ensuring a structured approach to traffic management.

Pedestrian and Vehicle Regulations

The new legislation will address critical issues concerning pedestrian safety, particularly regarding crossings on high-speed roads. Provisions related to stopping and standing vehicles on the road will also be revisited, emphasizing safety and efficient traffic flow.

Current regulations in the UAE dictate that individuals can obtain motorbike licenses at the age of 17, car and light vehicle licenses at 18, and tractor and heavy vehicle licenses at 20. The new decree will consider possible adjustments to these minimum age limits, though specifics on which vehicles may be affected remain unclear.

Further discussions will also encompass regulations for driving instructors, detailing the locations where they can conduct training sessions, as well as stipulations regarding vehicle modifications, including changes to the chassis, body, or engine.

Fines and Penalties Under the New Law

The decree law specifies that a cabinet resolution will establish the fines, penalties, and administrative measures applicable to violations of the new traffic rules. Notably, stringent punishments are being proposed for various traffic infractions:

• Misuse of License Plates: Offenders may face imprisonment and/or fines starting at Dh20,000.
• Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol: Individuals caught driving, or attempting to drive, while intoxicated could be sentenced to imprisonment and/or fined between Dh20,000 and Dh100,000.
• Driving Under the Influence of Narcotics or Psychotropic Substances: Offenders may receive imprisonment and/or fines ranging from Dh30,000 to Dh200,000.
• Driving with a Suspended License: This violation could lead to imprisonment for up to three months and/or a fine of at least Dh10,000.
• Fleeing the Scene of an Accident: Those who leave an accident site without reporting will be subject to imprisonment for up to one year and/or fines between Dh50,000 and Dh100,000.
• Negligently Causing Death with a Vehicle: This serious offense may incur imprisonment and/or a minimum fine of Dh50,000. If the incident occurs under aggravating conditions, such as during a flood, the minimum prison sentence will be one year, with fines starting at Dh100,000.
• Jaywalking and Causing an Accident: Jaywalkers who are involved in accidents could face imprisonment and fines ranging from Dh5,000 to Dh10,000.

Currently, penalties for more severe traffic violations are determined by the courts on a case-by-case basis. The new regulations aim to standardize and strengthen the enforcement of traffic laws across the UAE, enhancing road safety for all users.

As the discussions progress, the government is committed to updating the public with the finalized details of the new traffic rules, reflecting the UAE's dedication to evolving its transportation landscape to meet modern needs.