If there’s one thing the UAE takes seriously, it’s road safety. And its latest traffic law makes that crystal clear. Drivers found operating a vehicle while inebriated could face far more than just a traffic fine. And while motorists put their lives in danger, they’ll also face penalties ranging from imprisonment and six-figure fines to losing their licence altogether. Before you get behind the wheel when you clearly shouldn’t, have a read over what the law says and what every motorist should know.
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UAE Fines For Driving Under The Influence Of Alcohol
Under Clause (1) of Article 35 of the updated traffic law, anyone caught driving or attempting to drive a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol can face imprisonment and a fine ranging between AED 20,000 and AED 100,000. The court may impose either a prison sentence, a financial penalty, or both, depending on the circumstances of the case.
Licence Penalties For Alcohol-Related Offences
Apart from fines and possible jail time, motorists can also face restrictions on their driving privileges. The licence penalties increase with repeated offences:
- First offence: Licence suspension for at least three months.
- Second offence: Licence suspension for six months.
- Third offence: Licence cancellation.
Penalties For Driving Under The Influence Of Narcotic/ Psychotropic Substances
If you thought fines for drinking were bad, then this will shock you! The UAE law takes an even stricter approach when narcotic or psychotropic substances are involved. Motorists found driving or attempting to drive while under the influence of narcotic, psychotropic, or similar substances may face imprisonment and fines ranging from AED 30,000 to AED 200,000. Depending on the case, the court may impose one or both of these penalties.
Licence Penalties For Narcotic-Related Driving Offences
Drivers convicted of operating a vehicle under the influence of narcotic or psychotropic substances can also face longer licence suspensions or cancellation. The penalties include:
- First offence: Licence suspension for six months.
- Second offence: Licence suspension for one year.
- Third offence: Licence cancellation.
Driving With A Suspended Licence In The UAE Can Also Cost You!
Losing your licence does not mean you can continue driving. In fact, under the traffic law, anyone caught behind the wheel with a suspended licence could face additional penalties. The offence carries a possible term of imprisonment of up to three months and an AED 10,000 fine, or either penalty.
Fatal Accidents Linked To Impaired Driving
The consequences become even more severe if impaired driving results in a fatal accident. The traffic law states that motorists found responsible for causing someone’s death while driving under the influence of alcohol, narcotic substances, psychotropic substances, or similar substances may face:
- A fine of at least AED 100,000
- Imprisonment for a minimum of one year
- Or both penalties
The UAE’s updated and strict traffic regulations reinforce the importance of responsible driving. Moreover, it also highlights the serious legal consequences of dangerous behaviour on the roads. Staying informed about traffic rules could save you more than just a fine. It means saving lives. And as always, for more UAE updates and laws, don’t stop hitting that refresh button on the official Gulf Buzz website!
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