Dubai: The UAE Government issued a new federal decree-law on traffic regulation, as part of the ongoing development of the UAE’s legislative and legal framework.
The decree-law aims to keep up with the rapid evolution of transportation around the world by updating vehicle classifications and implementing modern road technologies.
A particular focus is given to expanding the use of self-driving vehicles, electric cars, and various types of personal mobility devices, as well as to adopting transportation methods based on advanced tech solutions, leveraging the sophisticated road network of the UAE.
According to the federal decree-law, a cabinet resolution will determine the requirements and procedure of inspecting, licensing and renewing the licensing of self-driving cars, as well as mechanisms to be followed for new vehicle tech trials.
The decree-law allows the use of new technologies to achieve road safety, as well as to issue fines for violating vehicles or persons. The licensing authority will establish online and smart programs and applications for obtaining licenses and permits, which will be issued based on a decision from the Minister of Interior or the head of the relevant licensing authority in each emirate.
The decree-law also establishes a “Federal Traffic Council,” whose formation, responsibilities, and operating procedures will be determined by a Cabinet resolution based on a proposal from the Minister of Interior.
Pedestrian regulations
The decree-law sets out broad regulations for all vehicles, drivers, and pedestrians on the road. Among these are rules prohibiting pedestrians from crossing roads where the speed limit is 80 km/h or above, with pedestrians assuming civil or criminal liability for non-compliance.
Additionally, the law forbids stopping or parking vehicles on the road or curb for repairs and prohibits standing in the roadway.
Requirements for issuing a driving license
The decree-law sets the conditions for issuing a driving license, including reaching the age of (17) Gregorian years.
It also regulates the activities of driving trainers, who must hold a driving license that authorizes them to drive the vehicle on which they will conduct the training, and who must be authorized to train by the licensing authority.
Driving trainers may not allow the trainees to drive the vehicle on any road within populated areas unless the trainer is certain that the trainee is able to control and maintain control of the vehicle.
On the other hand, the licensing authority may suspend, cancel or reject to renew any driving license or permit if it is proven that the holder of the license or permit is not qualified or medically fit to drive the vehicles they are licensed or authorized to drive.
UAE Government issues Federal Decree-Law on traffic regulation, which aims to keep up with the rapid evolution of transportation worldwide#UAEGOV pic.twitter.com/AD8VgGgswn
— UAEGOV (@UAEmediaoffice) October 25, 2024
The decree-law prohibits significant alterations to a vehicle’s shape, chassis, body, engine power, or color unless authorized by the licensing authority, following its specified controls and procedures.
Additionally, it states that insurance companies cannot impose conditions in their policies that would limit or exclude coverage for full civil liability resulting from death, bodily injury, or property damage caused by the vehicle.
Imposing penalties
Misuse of license plates: Imprisonment and a fine of at least AED 20,000 ($5,445), or one of these two penalties.
Driving under the influence of alcohol: Imprisonment and a fine between AED 20,000 ($5,445) and AED 100,000 ($27,225), or one of these penalties.
Driving under the influence of Narcotics or Psychotropic substances : Imprisonment and a fine between AED 30,000 ($8,167) and AED 200,000 ($54,450), or one of these penalties.
Driving with a suspended license: Imprisonment for up to 3 months and a fine of at least AED 10,000 ($2,722), or one of these penalties.
Fleeing the scene of an accident: Imprisonment for up to 1 year and a fine between AED 50,000 ($13,612) and AED 100,000 ($27,225), or one of these penalties.
Causing death by negligence in vehicle
Imprisonment and a fine of at least AED 50,000 ($13,612), or one of these penalties. If occurring under aggravating conditions (e.g., driving in a flooded valley), the penalty includes imprisonment for a minimum of 1 year and a fine of at least AED 100,000 ($27,225), or one of these penalties.
Crossing roads improperly leading to a traffic accident
Imprisonment and a fine between AED 5,000 ($1,361) and AED 10,000 ($2,722), or one of these penalties.