Own a car and drive in the UAE? Pay close attention to the new traffic laws that the UAE just announced, because these fines are no joke. UAE’s new traffic laws introduce stricter penalties and tighter safety regulations, by making sure that only qualified and responsible drivers are behind the wheel. Under the new laws, authorities can suspend, cancel, or refuse to renew driving licences under specific conditions, with fines reaching up to AED 100,000! Keep reading, and I’ll break down everything you need to know.
Also read: Dubai Residents Can Now Pay Fines & Renew Driving Licences In 4-Month Instalments
Three Reasons Your Licence Could Be Suspended
Authorities now have the power to suspend or cancel a driving licence in specific cases, including:
- Medical or Skill Concerns – If a driver is deemed medically unfit or is found unqualified to operate the vehicle they are licenced for, their licence can be revoked.
- Traffic Safety Risks – If keeping a licence active poses a security or road safety risk, traffic authorities can put it on hold or cancel it.
- Legal & Regulatory Compliance – The law has detailed regulations on when and how a licence can be suspended or reinstated. Drivers may need to go through an assessment or retraining before getting back on the road.
What Are The Penalties For Driving Without A Valid Licence?
- First-time offenders: Fines range from AED 2,000 to AED 10,000 for driving with an unapproved foreign licence.
- Repeat offenders: Can face up to three months in jail and fines between AED 5,000 and AED 50,000.
- Driving with a suspended licence: Can result in a minimum AED 10,000 fine or imprisonment of up to three months.
- Using the wrong type of licence*: If a driver is caught using a licence meant for a different vehicle category, they could face up to three months in jail or fines from AED 5,000 to AED 50,000.
- Repeat violations – More severe penalties, including a fine of up to AED 100,000 or longer jail time.
* Tourists/visitors are also allowed to drive in UAE, so long as they hold a valid international or foreign licence. However, once they become residents, they must apply for a UAE licence under the correct category.
Vehicle Inspections & Modification Restrictions
Authorities have the right to recall and inspect any vehicle to check if it meets safety standards. If a vehicle is deemed unsafe, it must be repaired and pass inspection before being allowed back on the road.
- Vehicle modifications are restricted – Changing a car’s body, engine power, or color without approval is illegal.
- Repair rules – No auto shop can repair an accident-damaged car without an official repair permit from the traffic control authority.
So, as you can see these new traffic laws are designed to prioritise safety and accountability on the roads. Residents or visitors alike, knowing the rules can help you avoid heavy fines, a suspended licence, or even jail time! Stay informed, drive responsibly, and let’s keep UAE roads safe for everyone!
