The Federal Decree-Law No. (14) of 2024 on Traffic Regulation comes into effect today, Saturday.
This law introduces several key amendments.
Key Amendments on the UAE’s Traffic Regulation:
- The law sets the minimum age for obtaining a driver’s license at 17 years old.
- Strict penalties are imposed for driving without a valid license, including up to three months of imprisonment and a fine of up to AED 100,000.
- If a driver causes a fatal accident by running a red light, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or driving with a suspended or revoked license, the penalty is at least one year of imprisonment and a fine of no less than AED 100,000.
The Ministry of Interior stated that the law aligns with technological advancements in traffic, vehicles, and road systems.
While the executive regulations for the law are expected to be issued within six months to ensure optimal implementation of its provisions.
License Suspension or Revocation:
Article (12) specifies that a driver’s license may be suspended or revoked due to health-related reasons or for security and road safety concerns, aiming to minimize risks and ensure drivers can safely control their vehicles.
Vehicle Inspection and Modifications:
- Article (27) grants licensing authorities the right to summon and re-inspect any vehicle at any time.
If found unfit for use, the owner will be notified of necessary repairs.
Also the vehicle will be banned from use until it passes a technical inspection. - Article (26) states that any major modifications to a vehicle.
Such as structural changes, engine power enhancements, or color alterations, require official approval from the licensing authority.
Driving Without a License:
A fine ranging from AED 2,000 to AED 10,000 applies to individuals driving with a foreign license that is not recognized in the UAE for the first time.
Moreover, repeat offenders face imprisonment of at least three months and a fine between AED 5,000 and AED 50,000 or both.
While driving without a license or with a license not permitting the operation of a specific vehicle type carries a penalty of up to three months in prison.
In addition to a fine between AED 5,000 and AED 50,000.
In case of repeat offenses, the penalty increases to at least three months in prison and a fine between AED 20,000 and AED 100,000.
Involuntary Manslaughter (Fatal Accidents):
Article (40) sets penalties for causing the accidental death of a person while driving.
The punishment includes imprisonment and a fine of no less than AED 50,000 or both.
If the fatal accident results from running a red light, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, driving with a suspended or revoked license, or driving in a flooded valley, the penalty increases to at least one year of imprisonment and a fine of no less than AED 100,000.
Tawazun Council launched the “Eid Joy” initiative in collaboration with the Emirates Red Crescent, aiming to support needy families and bring joy to their hearts during Eid al-Fitr. This initiative falls within the framework of the Council’s commitment to social responsibility… pic.twitter.com/olojAN2l0U
— UAE Voice (@uae_voiceeng) March 28, 2025
Vehicle Seizure:
Article (32) grants traffic authorities the right to seize a vehicle if:
- It is unfit for use.
- It is driven by an unlicensed individual.
- It has undergone unauthorized modifications affecting its chassis, structure, or engine power.
- It is involved in a crime and needs to be retained as evidence.
- Any other conditions specified in the executive regulations.
Pedestrian Rules:
Pedestrians are prohibited from crossing roads where the speed limit exceeds 80 km/h.
Failure to comply results in civil or criminal liability for any consequences.
The amendments on traffic regulation will surely enhance road safety, regulate vehicle movement, and ensure compliance with safe driving standards.
