Abu Dhabi Police confirmed that stopping on the road shoulder due to emergencies or unavoidable breakdowns does not result in a traffic fine, resolving widespread confusion among drivers about the legality of this action.

Brigadier Mahmoud Yousuf Al Balushi emphasized that despite the exemption, stopping on the shoulder remains highly dangerous, as many severe rear-end collisions occur when vehicles stop in this critical lane.

He explained that the road shoulder is strictly designated for emergency vehicles such as police and ambulances, as well as brief emergency stopping situations, and must not be used for overtaking or waiting.

In case of a vehicle malfunction or tire blowout, drivers are urged to immediately move to the nearest safe location away from the main road instead of remaining on the shoulder.

Keeping the lane clear is essential to ensure rapid response for emergency services, improving road safety and maintaining smooth traffic flow.

The authority warned that using the shoulder to bypass traffic will result in a fine of AED 1000 and six traffic points, as part of strict enforcement against this hazardous behavior.

Al Balushi highlighted a common misconception among drivers who treat the shoulder as an extra lane during congestion, stressing that this practice is illegal and punishable.

He noted that some motorists stop on the shoulder for waiting purposes, which significantly increases the risk of serious accidents for both them and other road users.

Drivers were advised to act responsibly during breakdowns by seeking the nearest exit or a fully safe area away from traffic lanes to ensure maximum safety.

These clarifications follow strong public engagement with recent videos shared by Abu Dhabi Police, showing real-life accidents involving vehicles stopped on the shoulder, reinforcing the dangers of such actions.