UAE traffic law: Reckless drivers to be arrested on the spot, fines increased
UAE introdocues new measures to combat reckless driving and enhance road safety
Abu Dhabi: Reckless drivers can now be arrested on the spot and will face hefty fine of up to Dh100,000, according to the revised traffic regulations in the UAE.
Recent updates to the UAE’s traffic laws are designed to address the growing concerns about road safety, with specific emphasis on curbing reckless driving, according to the Ministry of Interior.
The new measures, which came into effect at the end of March, grant traffic enforcement officers greater authority, including the power to arrest drivers caught in the act of committing dangerous offences. These amendments also introduced harsher penalties for violators, reinforcing the government’s commitment to reducing road-related injuries and fatalities.
Major amendments
According to recent statistics from the Ministry of Interior, UAE traffic departments recorded 4,291 violations in 2024 for “driving in a manner that endangers life and safety.” These violations were spread across the country, with the highest number of incidents in Dubai (2,765 violations), followed by significant occurrences in Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and other emirates.
Disturbing trend
The statistics also revealed a disturbing trend of reckless driving involving heavy vehicles, with 96 violations reported for actions that endangered both driver and public safety. To tackle these dangerous behaviours, Abu Dhabi Police, in collaboration with the Monitoring and Control Center, launched a new initiative called “Your Comment,” sharing footage of traffic incidents caused by reckless driving to raise awareness.
Six key offences
Under the newly amended traffic law, traffic enforcement officers and police are authorised to arrest drivers on the spot for any of the following six offences:
Causing death or injury while driving
Causing significant property damage due to reckless driving
Engaging in reckless driving that endangers public safety
Driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or any impairing substance
Refusing to provide identification or providing false information
Fleeing the scene of an accident, disobeying an officer’s order, or initiating a police pursuit
Stricter penalties
As part of the reform, drivers found guilty of causing death due to negligent driving now face severe penalties, including imprisonment and/or a fine of no less than Dh50,000. If the fatal incident was caused by running a red light, driving under the influence, driving with a revoked license, or crossing a flooded wadi, the penalties are even more stringent: a minimum of one year in prison and a fine of at least Dh100,000.
In addition, violators who engage in reckless driving that leads to accidents or harm will face fines of up to Dh2,000, along with 23 black points, and the impoundment of their vehicle for 60 days. If the impoundment release fee of Dh50,000 is not paid within three months, the vehicle may be auctioned off.
Four essential obligations for drivers
The new law also outlines four primary duties that all drivers must adhere to in order to ensure public safety.
Follow the instructions of traffic authorities, especially during emergencies, such as heavy rainfall or flooding.
Slow down near schools, hospitals, and busy areas, and adhere to speed limits indicated by traffic signs.
Reduce speed in areas with limited visibility, or when the road is obstructed by physical barriers or animals.
Stop completely at pedestrian crossings until pedestrians have safely crossed.
Penalties for fleeing the scene of an accident
A crucial update in the law stipulates severe consequences for those who flee the scene of an accident.
Offenders can face up to one year in prison and/or a fine between Dh50,000 and Dh100,000 for the following offences:
Failing to stop after a traffic accident-causing injury
Refusing to provide identifying information to help resolve the accident
Fleeing from police officers or causing a pursuit
Colliding intentionally with enforcement, military, or security vehicles during official duties
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