The UAE is adopting a significant revision of the traffic regulations from March 29, 2025, to enhance road safety and rein in reckless driving. From higher fines to a change in the legal driving age, below are eight key changes every driver must know.

Legal Driving Age Lowered to 17

Teens aged 17 and above are now eligible to get a UAE driving license. Applicants must clear theoretical and practical tests in addition to meeting all the usual conditions for licensing.

Tougher Penalties for Driving without a License

Offences of driving without a license have tougher penalties:

• Driving with a suspended license: Imprisonment up to 3 months and/or a minimum Dh10,000 fine.
• Driving with no license: Dh5,000–Dh50,000 fines, with repeat offenders fined up to Dh100,000 and 3+ months jail.
• Driving using an unapproved foreign license: Dh2,000–Dh10,000 fine for the first offense; more for repeats.

3. Jail for Hit-and-Run Incidents

Drivers who flee an accident scene that has resulted in injuries can be jailed for up to 2 years and fined Dh50,000 to Dh100,000.

4. Jaywalking Is a Serious Risk

Crossing from undesignated areas can now cost pedestrians Dh5,000 to Dh10,000 — or even jail time if it leads to a road accident. Roads with speed limits above 80 km/h have the most stringent penalties.

5. Fatal Accidents = Minimum One Year Jail

Causing a fatality through reckless driving — such as speeding through red lights or driving while intoxicated — will lead to a minimum of one year in jail and fines of at least Dh100,000.

6. Providing False Information at Checkpoints = Jail or Dh20,000 Fine

Failing to show your ID or providing false information to the authorities can lead to a maximum of 3 months in jail and/or fines of between Dh10,000 and Dh20,000.

7. Covering Number Plates? That’s Dh20,000

Anyone caught hiding or altering their license plates is fined Dh20,000 or more and can be jailed.

8. Driving Under the Influence: No Tolerance

Irrespective of being under the influence of alcohol or drugs, DUI offenses are heavily penalized:

• Alcohol: Dh20,000–Dh100,000 fine + possible jail
• Narcotics or psychotropics: Dh30,000–Dh200,000 fine + jail

Repeated offenders may also have their license canceled.

Why It Matters

These extensive updates reflect the UAE’s focus on safer roads, increased accountability, and zero tolerance for dangerous behavior on the roads. All residents and motorists are encouraged to stay informed and compliant.