Reckless drivers in the UAE now face on-the-spot arrests and hefty fines of up to Dh100,000 under newly revised traffic laws aimed at improving road safety, according to the Ministry of Interior.

The amended regulations, which came into effect in late March, grant broader authority to traffic enforcement officers, enabling them to detain motorists caught committing serious traffic violations. The measures also introduce stricter penalties for dangerous driving behaviours, reinforcing the government's commitment to reducing road accidents and fatalities. 

Spike in Reckless Driving Incidents

In 2024, UAE traffic departments recorded 4,291 violations for driving in a manner that posed a threat to public safety. Dubai accounted for the highest number of these violations with 2,765 cases, followed by incidents in Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and other emirates. Alarmingly, 96 of these violations involved heavy vehicles, prompting increased concern over public and driver safety.

To combat this trend, Abu Dhabi Police, in collaboration with the Monitoring and Control Center, launched the “Your Comment” awareness campaign, which shares real footage of reckless driving incidents to educate the public.

Six Offences That Can Lead to Immediate Arrest

Under the updated law, police officers are now authorized to detain drivers on the spot if they are involved in any of the following six offences:

1. Causing death or injury while driving

2. Causing major property damage due to reckless driving

3. Driving in a manner that endangers public safety

4. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs

5. Refusing to provide identification or supplying false information

6. Fleeing the scene of an accident or initiating a police chase

Tougher Penalties for Serious Violations

Motorists found guilty of causing death due to negligent or dangerous driving can now face imprisonment and/or fines starting from Dh50,000. In aggravated cases—such as running a red light, being under the influence, driving with a suspended license, or attempting to cross a flooded wadi—the punishment is even more severe: a minimum of one year in jail and a fine of at least Dh100,000.

Those involved in reckless driving incidents that cause injury or damage may also face a Dh2,000 fine, 23 black points, and vehicle impoundment for 60 days. If the vehicle release fee of Dh50,000 is not paid within three months, authorities may auction off the vehicle.

New Responsibilities for Drivers

The updated law outlines four key obligations for all motorists to ensure public safety:

1. Obey directions issued by traffic authorities, especially during emergencies like floods or heavy rain.

2. Slow down near schools, hospitals, and congested areas, and follow posted speed limits.

3. Reduce speed in poor visibility or when encountering road obstructions.

4. Come to a complete stop at pedestrian crossings and wait until pedestrians have fully crossed.

Severe Consequences for Hit-and-Run Offenders

New provisions also target hit-and-run cases. Drivers who flee the scene of an accident can face up to one year in prison and/or fines between Dh50,000 and Dh100,000 for:

• Failing to stop after causing an injury in a traffic accident

• Refusing to provide information needed for legal or insurance purposes

• Escaping from police or instigating a pursuit

• Deliberately colliding with law enforcement or military vehicles during official duties