In a significant move to boost road safety, the UAE Government has introduced Federal Decree Law No. 14 of 2024, setting tougher penalties for traffic violations. Coming into effect on March 29, 2025, the new law imposes severe fines and prison sentences on offenders, signaling the UAE’s commitment to reducing road accidents and ensuring public safety. Key offenses addressed include jaywalking, driving under the influence, and unlicensed driving, among others.

The law introduces stricter penalties for jaywalking, raising the fine from Dh400 to as much as Dh10,000, with potential jail time if the infraction leads to an accident. Jaywalking on roads with speed limits over 80 km/h without designated crossing areas could result in three months in prison or fines exceeding Dh10,000. This change emphasizes pedestrian safety and aims to instill caution among road users.

Driving under the influence has become one of the most heavily penalized offenses under the new regulations. The revised law mandates a minimum fine of Dh30,000 for drug-related violations and progressively higher fines for alcohol-related infractions, with penalties reaching Dh200,000. License suspensions range from six months for first-time offenders to permanent revocation upon a third offense. This zero-tolerance approach underscores the UAE’s dedication to deterring impaired driving through stringent sanctions.

Additional penalties address dangerous behaviors, such as hit-and-run offenses and unauthorized use of foreign or suspended licenses. Fleeing an accident scene or failing to assist in investigations now carries up to two years of imprisonment and fines up to Dh100,000. The penalties for unlicensed driving are also severe, with repeat offenders facing three-month jail terms or fines up to Dh100,000, further reinforcing accountability among drivers.

Through these comprehensive reforms, the UAE Government highlights the critical importance of road safety and driver responsibility. The enhanced penalties serve as a proactive measure, deterring risky behaviors and creating a safer environment for all road users. This holistic approach underlines the UAE’s ongoing efforts to align with global road safety standards, ensuring security and order on the nation’s roads.