UAE traffic violation: Over 409,300 motorists fined Dh400 for slow driving, 99% in Abu Dhabi

Dubai: More than 409,000 drivers were fined across the UAE last year for driving too slowly, especially on fast-moving highways, according to the latest figures from the Ministry of Interior.

The violations included failing to meet the minimum speed limit and not giving way to faster vehicles approaching from behind, particularly in overtaking lanes.

This kind of behaviour, officials said, not only disrupts traffic but also increases the risk of accidents.

In total, 409,305 fines were issued – a significant jump from 300,147 in 2023. The majority of these violations – more than 99 per cent – occurred in Abu Dhabi, which recorded 409,059 fines alone.

192 fines in Dubai
The number of drivers fined in other emirates were: Dubai (192), Sharjah (41), Ras Al Khaimah (6), Umm Al Quwain (4), and Ajman (3). No fines were issued in Fujairah.

Under federal traffic law, motorists caught driving below the minimum speed limit face a fine of Dh400. This rule aims to ensure that slower vehicles keep to the right-hand lanes, leaving the left lanes clear for overtaking. On March 29, the UAE began enforcing updates to the traffic law, designed to improve road safety. Executive regulations are expected within six months to provide clearer enforcement measures, including lane-specific speed guidelines.

‘It’s dangerous’

Many drivers say slow vehicles in fast lanes are a real hazard.

“It creates confusion for faster drivers and forces them to make risky overtaking moves,” said Ali Al Naqbi, who often drives on the Sharjah-Khor Fakkan highway. “This is how accidents happen.”

Abdul Rahman Al Hamadi echoed the concern and called for better public awareness.

“Slow drivers not only block traffic but also cause others to take dangerous actions like sudden lane changes.”

Some motorists have called for the executive regulations to introduce clearer minimum speed limits, especially for the left and middle lanes, and to hold slow drivers accountable when accidents occur.

Awareness drive

Abu Dhabi Police have stepped up their digital awareness campaigns, reminding drivers of key safety rules. These include staying in the right-hand lanes when driving slowly, always giving way to faster vehicles approaching from behind, and avoiding slow driving in the far-left lane, which is designated for overtaking.

Police warned against tailgating or pressuring slower drivers in the overtaking lane, emphasising that aggressive driving can quickly escalate and lead to serious accidents. They urged all drivers to maintain safe distances and respect others on the road.

Authorities, meanwhile, said the goal is simple: “Keep traffic flowing smoothly and reduce accidents caused by slow drivers in fast lanes.”