Dh3,000 fine, 6 black points for not giving way to emergency vehicles, warns Abu Dhabi Police

Abu Dhabi: The Abu Dhabi Police have reiterated the importance of giving way to emergency, ambulance, police, and official convoy vehicles, warning that violators will face a fine of Dh3,000, 30 days of vehicle impoundment, and six black points on their driving licence.

The announcement comes as part of the police’s latest awareness initiative, “Don’t Hesitate… Give Way Immediately,” launched in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority, Department of Health, and the Department of Municipalities and Transport, represented by the Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility).

The campaign aims to foster a culture of swift and responsible reaction among drivers when emergency vehicles are approaching. It emphasises the critical role timely responses play in saving lives, minimising damage, and reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s standing as the world’s safest city.

“Every second matters in emergencies,” the campaign highlights. “Whether it’s an accident, a fire, or a life-threatening medical issue, sirens represent hope. For the people waiting for help, they could mean the difference between life and death.”

Authorities warned that even brief delays caused by drivers failing to yield could worsen critical situations. Delays can hinder rescue and firefighting efforts and put emergency personnel — who already operate in dangerous conditions — at greater risk.

The campaign calls on all motorists to act decisively and responsibly. Giving way is not only a legal obligation but a moral one. Public cooperation can significantly improve the response times of emergency services and reduce the long-term impact of incidents.

The initiative also includes widespread awareness efforts through media campaigns, digital platforms, on-ground events, and educational sessions targeting drivers and various community segments. These efforts are focused on explaining traffic laws related to emergency vehicle priority and promoting community responsibility toward public safety.

Legal consequences for non-compliance

Under UAE traffic law, failing to give priority and right of way to emergency vehicles carries a fine of Dh3,000, 30-day vehicle impoundment, and six black points on the offender’s license. Abu Dhabi Police emphasized that these penalties reflect the seriousness of the offense and its potential consequences.

Six key guidelines for drivers

To ensure compliance, the Abu Dhabi Police outlined six essential guidelines that all drivers must follow:

1. On main roads: Emergency vehicles use the leftmost lane. Upon hearing a siren or seeing flashing lights, drivers must immediately shift to the right lane.

2. In traffic congestion: Do not drive on the road shoulder; it is exclusively reserved for emergency vehicles.

3. On internal roads without shoulders: Drivers must move left or right as needed to create a clear path for the emergency vehicle.

4. At intersections: Vehicles on side roads with green signals must stop completely and allow emergency vehicles — who may cautiously cross on red — to pass.

5. In roundabouts: Emergency vehicles have the right of way. Other drivers should not enter the roundabout and must give priority. Those already inside should move right at the first safe opportunity.

6. On single-lane roads with two-way traffic: Emergency vehicles travel through the center. Oncoming vehicles must move as far to the right as possible without using the shoulder to ensure a clear passage.