UAE to Enforce Stricter Traffic Penalties in 2025

The UAE has announced new traffic regulations under Federal Decree-Law No. 14 of 2024, set to take effect on March 29, 2025, aiming to enhance road safety and deter serious traffic violations. The new law introduces significant penalties, including fines reaching up to Dh200,000 and potential jail terms.

One of the changes is in jaywalking penalties. Individuals caught crossing from non-designated areas in high-speed zones (80 km/h or more) may face fines from Dh5,000 to Dh10,000 and imprisonment if their actions lead to an accident. Repeat offenders face a minimum three-month jail term and a fine of at least Dh10,000.

Strict Penalties for DUI Offenses

Under the new rules, those caught driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol could face fines ranging from Dh20,000 to Dh200,000. Jail terms may also be imposed, starting from three months for the first offense, along with license suspensions that increase with repeated violations.

Hit and Run and Failure to Cooperate

The law also addresses hit-and-run incidents and failure to assist at accident scenes. Offenders may face up to two years in prison and fines ranging from Dh50,000 to Dh100,000 for leaving the scene of an accident involving injuries or for refusing to provide relevant information to authorities.

Consequences for Driving with Suspended or Invalid Licenses

Individuals caught driving with suspended or foreign licenses not recognized in the UAE face a fine of Dh2,000 to Dh10,000 for the first offense, with increased penalties and potential imprisonment for repeated violations. The new regulations also impose jail terms of up to three months and fines up to Dh50,000 for driving without the correct type of license.

Negligent Driving Leading to Fatalities

Drivers found responsible for fatal accidents due to negligence will face severe repercussions, including at least one year in prison and fines of no less than Dh50,000. Penalties may increase if aggravating factors, such as running a red light or driving under the influence, are involved.

Misuse of License Plates

The new law includes penalties for tampering with or misusing license plates. Offenses such as forging plates, transferring plates without permission, or altering plate information will lead to fines starting from Dh20,000 and possible imprisonment.

Implementation and Compliance

The UAE Government emphasized that these penalties do not override any stricter punishments outlined in other laws. The new decree underscores the UAE's commitment to road safety, setting clear expectations for compliance and responsibility among drivers.