Breaking the law on the road could cost you far more than just a ticket
If you’re hitting the UAE roads anytime soon, some major traffic law changes are coming your way.
Starting 29 March 2025, Federal Decree-Law No. (14) of 2024 will roll out, bringing stricter rules, tougher penalties, and even a lower minimum age to get your driver’s license.
Here’s what you need to know to avoid major headaches on the road.
Lowered minimum driving age
Exciting news for teens eager to drive – the minimum age for obtaining a driving license is now 17 instead of 18.
However, before you jump behind the wheel, there are still requirements: passing a medical exam, completing a driving test, and fulfilling specific criteria for different license categories.
Licence suspensions: What could get you banned
Authorities can now suspend, cancel, or refuse to renew a driving license if you’re medically unfit, deemed a danger to road safety, or fail to meet reassessment and rehabilitation standards.
Road safety is paramount in the UAE. In hit-and-run cases involving injury, drivers could face up to two years in prison and fines reaching AED 100,000.
If you’re caught driving recklessly or under the influence, expect automatic arrest, sky-high fines, and potentially jail time.
Drivers who cause fatalities, serious injuries, or significant damage will face severe legal action, and refusing to cooperate with police could land you in jail immediately.
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Using an unrecognised foreign license could result in fines ranging from AED 2,000 to AED 10,000.
If you’re caught repeatedly driving without a valid license, you could face three months in jail and fines of up to AED 50,000.
For operating a vehicle outside your license category, penalties are even harsher: first-time offenders may face up to three months in jail, and fines between AED 5,000 and AED 50,000.
Stay safe and informed
With these new traffic laws now in effect, it’s time to double-check your license, brush up on the rules, and drive responsibly.
Breaking the law could cost you far more than just a ticket – so keep these changes in mind and stay safe on the road.
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