New UAE Traffic Law: Key Changes, Penalties, and Licence Suspension Rules
The UAE introduced a new federal traffic law to improve road safety and penalize violations. This law enforces stricter fines, new safety measures, and enhanced enforcement to prevent accidents.
Suspension of Driving Licence
Authorities can suspend or cancel a licence if the driver is unqualified or medically unfit. Traffic control authorities can also suspend a licence based on security and safety requirements. Executive regulations outline the procedures for licence suspension and re-evaluation.
Categories Exempted from Holding a Driving Licence
Military, security, and police personnel can drive military vehicles with special permits. Foreign tourists with recognized international licences can temporarily drive foreign-registered vehicles. Non-residents with valid foreign or international licences can drive under UAE regulations.
Strict Penalties for Driving Without a Valid Licence
Driving with an unrecognized foreign licence results in a fine of Dh2,000 to Dh10,000. Repeated offences lead to imprisonment of at least three months and a fine up to Dh50,000. Driving with a suspended licence carries a fine of Dh10,000 or three months imprisonment.
Vehicle Inspection and Modification Restrictions
Authorities can recall and inspect vehicles to ensure roadworthiness and compliance with regulations. Vehicle modifications require prior approval from the licensing authority. Repair centers cannot fix accident-damaged vehicles without an official permit. No vehicle repair centre must repair any vehicle that has signs of accident or damage without a vehicle repair permit issued by the traffic control authority or whoever it authorises to do so.
Requirements for Obtaining a Driving Licence
Applicants must be at least 17 years old and pass a medical examination. They must comply with executive regulations and meet any additional licensing authority requirements.
Severe Punishments for Licence Plate Violations
Forgery, imitation, or alteration of licence plates results in imprisonment and a fine of at least Dh20,000. Transferring a plate without approval also leads to strict penalties.
The new UAE traffic law ensures safer roads through strict enforcement and heavy penalties for violations.