This new legislation, effective from March 29, 2025, introduces stricter penalties, revised rules, and a focus on enhancing road safety across the emirates. Whether you’re a resident, a tourist, or a business operator, understanding these changes is essential to avoid hefty fines, imprisonment, or even licence suspension. Below, we outline the key offences and their updated penalties under the new UAE traffic laws.
Stricter Penalties for Driving Under the Influence
Driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol, narcotics, or psychotropic substances remains a top priority for enforcement under the new laws. The UAE maintains a zero-tolerance policy, and the updated penalties are among the harshest yet:
Alcohol-Related Offences: A first offence can result in imprisonment and/or fines between Dh20,000 and Dh100,000. Licence suspension starts at three months for the first offence, extends to six months for a second offence, and leads to permanent revocation on the third offence.
Narcotics or Psychotropic Substances: Penalties are even steeper, with imprisonment and fines ranging from Dh30,000 to Dh200,000. Suspension periods begin at six months for a first offence, with harsher measures for repeat violations.
Fine for Hit-and-Run in Dubai
The new traffic law cracks down on hit-and-run incidents and other serious violations that endanger lives or property. Drivers who flee the scene of an accident they caused face imprisonment for up to one year and fines between Dh50,000 and Dh100,000, or one of these penalties. If the incident involves concealing information or failing to provide identification, the punishment escalates.
Other grave offences, such as causing death or injury through negligent driving, carry imprisonment and a minimum fine of Dh50,000. In aggravating circumstances—like driving through a flooded valley—the penalty increases to a minimum of one year in jail and a fine of at least Dh100,000. Reckless driving, defined as operating a vehicle in a way that poses a danger to the public, can also lead to immediate arrest and potential licence suspension, on top of existing fines like Dh3,000 and 23 black points for exceeding the speed limit by 80 kmph.
Fine for Jaywalking and Pedestrian Safety
Pedestrians aren’t exempt from the updated regulations. Jaywalking—crossing roads outside designated areas—now incurs fines between Dh5,000 and Dh10,000 and possible jail time if it results in a traffic accident. Additionally, crossing roads with speed limits exceeding 80 km/h is strictly prohibited, with violators facing civil or criminal liability. These rules aim to reduce pedestrian-related accidents and promote safer road-sharing practices.
Fine for Vehicle and Noise Regulations
The new law also targets vehicle compliance and noise pollution:
Excessive Noise: Vehicles producing excessive noise are banned, with fines imposed to maintain quieter urban environments.
Horn Usage: Within city limits, horns can only be used in emergencies or to prevent imminent danger, with misuse leading to penalties.
Technical Standards: Driving a vehicle with safety defects, expired tires, or without valid insurance and registration is illegal, attracting fines and potential impoundment.
Additional Offences and Penalties
Several other violations carry updated penalties under the 2025 traffic law:
Driving with a Suspended Licence: Up to three months imprisonment and/or a fine of at least Dh10,000.
Using Mobile Phones While Driving: Previously fined between Dh400 and Dh1,000 with four black points, this offence now also risks a 30-day vehicle impoundment in Dubai.
Tailgating and Sudden Deviation: Failing to maintain a safe distance or making abrupt, dangerous movements can lead to fines and a 30-day impoundment in Dubai.
Illegal Road Races: Participating in unauthorized races incurs fines up to Dh50,000 and impoundment.
Repeat offenders face doubled impoundment periods (up to 90 days) and release fees capped at Dh200,000 if the same offence is committed within a year. Non-citizen heavy vehicle drivers caught running red lights may also face administrative deportation.
For drivers, staying informed is critical. The Dubai Police and other emirate authorities have launched awareness campaigns to educate the public about these changes. Compliance not only avoids penalties but also contributes to the UAE’s vision of safer, more sustainable roads.
As of April 2, 2025, the new UAE traffic laws are in full effect, bringing stricter enforcement and higher stakes for violations. From lowered driving ages to severe DUI penalties and pedestrian regulations, these updates demand attention from all road users. Whether you’re navigating the bustling streets of Dubai or the highways of Abu Dhabi, understanding and adhering to these rules is essential to stay safe and legal in 2025.
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