UAE: No more speeding fines for ‘emergency doctors’

Abu Dhabi: The UAE Ministry of Interior has recognised 13 critical medical specialities eligible for the ‘Bin Wariqa Service’, a pioneering initiative that allows emergency doctors to bypass traffic rules during urgent hospital calls.

The initiative aims to accelerate life-saving responses in the country.

Launched in July 2020 under the directive of Lieutenant General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, the ‘Bin Wariqa’ service grants registered doctors special road privileges including the ability to exceed speed limits by up to 40km/h, use hard road shoulders, and receive real-time assistance from traffic patrols.

The initiative aligns with the UAE’s vision to lead in proactive government services, prioritising citizen well-being and enhancing emergency medical response times.

The ‘Bin Wariqa Service’ is tailored for doctors summoned to handle life-threatening emergencies. With prior approval and proper training, these frontline professionals can use their private vehicles under special exemptions, reducing response times and ensuring safe passage through traffic congestion.

Speaking on the Ministry of Interior’s official podcast, Colonel Dr. Saeed Mohammed Al Dhahouri, Director of Service Development, emphasised that the program helps doctors overcome on-road delays during emergencies, a key factor in saving lives.

“While it might seem like the doctor is the beneficiary, it’s truly the patient in need of urgent care who benefits most from this service,” Al Dhahouri stated.

To be eligible, doctors must:

Once an emergency call is received, the doctor activates the service via the Ministry’s smart app (moiuae). Their trip is monitored by the operations room, which coordinates with traffic patrols to ensure seamless passage. A triangular green device, known as a “lawah”, is displayed on their vehicle, signalling their emergency status to other road users.

Ministerial Resolution No. 248 of 2020 outlines the legal framework for this initiative, ensuring the safe use of road shoulders, bus lanes, and controlled speeding for registered doctors. Real-time guidance from the operations room further enhances road safety for both doctors and the public.

The service has achieved a 97% registration rate among eligible doctors, with ongoing efforts to expand its scope and reduce emergency response times by up to 30%.

Bin Wariqa Service has been named after Saeed bin Wariqa Al Amri, a historic figure and companion of Sheikh Zayed the First known for his contributions to traditional medicine, the service is a modern homage to the UAE’s long-standing respect for medical practitioners.