All About UAE’s New Traffic Law Coming Into Effect From March 29

The UAE’s new traffic law will come into effect from March 29 onwards. A significant change includes the reduction in the minimum age for obtaining a driving license in the country. Any citizen who is 17 years old can now apply for a driving license in the UAE.

From hefty fines to potential jail time, here are a few key rules you need to be aware of before hitting the road.

Read also: Qatar’s Eid Treat: Special ATMs Installed For Eidiya Withdrawals

Regulations for obtaining driving license:

• The applicant must be at least 17 years old.

• The applicant must pass a medical examination or submit an approved medical report.

• Moreover, the Executive Regulations will define the different types of driving licenses, their validity periods, specific conditions, and the age groups eligible for each type of license.

Another major change is the penalty imposed on pedestrians. Any pedestrian caught crossing a road where the speed limit is 80 km/h or higher will face both civil and criminal liabilities.

Additionally, they may not be able to file a complaint against the driver involved in the accident. The penalties include a minimum prison sentence of three months and a fine of at least Dhs 10,000.

Stricter laws have also been introduced prohibiting the unnecessary use of horns within city limits, except to prevent danger or accidents.

Authorities are now empowered to suspend, cancel, or refuse to renew driving licenses if a driver is deemed unfit or poses a risk to road safety. Drunk driving or reckless behavior behind the wheel will result in severe penalties. Offenders will face automatic arrest, fines of up to Dhs 100,000, and license suspension. Moreover, if a driver’s actions result in serious injury or property damage, they will face a fine of no less than Dhs 50,000 along with further legal action.

Read also: Pay Fines, Traffic Fees As Installments In Dubai Using Tabby Across All Digital Platforms

Fleeing the scene of an accident without providing relevant information will lead to imprisonment for up to one year and a fine of no less than Dhs 50,000. If the accident occurs due to negligence, the offender will face imprisonment and a fine of no less than Dhs 50,000.

Driving with an invalid license will result in a fine ranging between Dhs 2,000 and Dhs 10,000. Repeat offenders risk at least three months in jail and a fine of up to Dhs 50,000.