On Friday, the UAE Government introduced new traffic safety regulations, including strict penalties, effective March 29, 2025.
Under the new federal decree law, fines for serious violations, such as driving under the influence of narcotic or psychotropic substances, can reach Dh200,000, along with imprisonment and a mandatory fine of no less than Dh30,000. For first offenses, courts may suspend driving licenses for at least six months, extending to one year for a second offense, with the license canceled after a third. Violators under the influence of alcohol will face jail time and a fine between Dh20,000 and Dh100,000. Licenses will be suspended for no less than three months for first-time offenders, six months for a second offense, and canceled for a third offense.
Penalties for Jaywalking
Individuals crossing roads outside designated areas face imprisonment or a fine between Dh5,000 and Dh10,000 if jaywalking leads to an accident. In areas with speed limits of 80 km/h or more, penalties are more severe, including at least three months of imprisonment and a minimum fine of Dh10,000.
Driving with a Suspended or Unrecognized License
Those caught driving while their license is suspended will be subject to imprisonment of up to three months or a minimum fine of Dh10,000. Driving with an unrecognized foreign license in the UAE will incur a fine between Dh2,000 and Dh10,000 for the first offense. Repeat offenders could face imprisonment of at least one month and fines ranging from Dh5,000 to Dh50,000.
