List of Stricter Traffic Penalties in the UAE Aimed to Enhance Road Safety
Beginning March 29, 2025, the UAE Government will impose harsher traffic fines meant to improve road safety and lower accident counts.
UAE Traffic Penalties
severe penalties, including jail terms and fines up to Dh200,000 for several offences including jaywalking, intoxicated driving, and hit-and-run events, the new federal decree, Traffic Regulation Law No. 14 of 2024, adds The aim is to guarantee more responsibility and care among all road users, therefore fostering a safer surroundings on UAE roadways.
Penalties for Jaywalking
Under the revised rules, jaywalking—that is, crossing the road from unmarked areas—will carry harsher fines, Jaywalking draws a Dh400 punishment right now, but under the new rule it will pay between Dh5,000 and Dh10,000. Furthermore, jaywalking events that cause mishaps could result in jail time, therefore highlighting the law's emphasis on avoiding dangerous activity. Particularly crossing roads with a speed limit of 80 km/h or more without using designated pedestrian spaces might result in a minimum jail term of three months or fines starting at Dh10,000.
Stiff fines and licence suspensions
Reflecting UAE's zero-tolerance attitude to impaired driving, the amended traffic legislation penalizes driving under the influence (DUI) of drugs, alcohol, or other substances highly. Drug-addled offenders will be subject to obligatory prison term and fines minimum of Dh30,000. First-time alcohol-related offenders will get a three-month license suspension and a minimum fine of Dh20,000, which rises to Dh100,000 for repeated violations. Third DUI offenses will cause the driver's license to be permanently revoked, therefore underlining the law's focus on repeat deterrent.
Hit-and-run
Drivers who leave the scene after inflicting an injury or failing to stop at the site of an accident may risk fines ranging from Dh50,000 to Dh100,000 and up to two years in jail. Furthermore punished similarly will be those who refuse to provide vital information on a traffic accident or escape law enforcement. Any collisions with official vehicles while they are on duty will also draw harsh penalties, which emphasizes the need of cooperative behavior both during and after incidents.
Unlicensed, Unregistered, or Suspended Driving
Driving on a suspended license could potentially land three months in jail or fines beginning at Dh10,000. A first offense for foreign licenses not accepted in the UAE results in a fine between Dh2,000 and Dh10,000; further violations may result in up to three months in jail or a Dh50,000 fine. Similarly, unlicensed driving or driving without a license suitable for the vehicle type—such as a car driver running a motorcycle—will carry fines between Dh5,000 and Dh50,000 for a first violation, with repeat crimes resulting to enhanced penalties.
Deaths from Negligence
Running a red light or reckless driving—negligence that results in deaths—will land at least one year in prison and fines of Dh100,000 or more. These fines could be more severe when aggravating factors like intoxication or using a suspended license. These clauses seek to deter careless driving, especially during high risk events like floods.
Editing License Plates
Changing or misusing license plates today has serious consequences; fines start at Dh20,000. This covers forging, changing, or moving plates without permission, which could potentially land the offender or anyone deliberately engaged in jail time. This rigorous approach supports the UAE's view on vehicle identification integrity as component of its whole safety plan.
Road safety
These enhanced fines represent the UAE Government's will to increase road safety and discourage risky behavior. Although this order imposes heavy fines, they complement other national traffic rules so that, if necessary, stronger laws will take front stage. The UAE's updated traffic rules reflect its strong will to provide safer roadways in line with more general objectives of public welfare and security for all people and guests.