Following the fines for dirty cars introduced recently, there are a few more traffic laws coming into effect in Abu Dhabi!
According to Decree-Law No. (14) of 2024 on Traffic Regulation, these will come into effect on March 29, bringing tougher penalties, stricter rules and updates to driving licence eligibility.
Minimum driving age
Teenagers can now get their driving licences at 17 instead of 18. Applicants must pass a medical examination and a driving test set by the Licensing Authority, with further conditions outlined for different licence categories.
Licence suspensions
Authorities can now suspend, cancel, or refuse to renew a driving licence if the driver is found to be medically unfit, poses a danger to traffic safety, or fails to meet reassessment and rehabilitation requirements.
New fines
Hit-and-run cases leading to injury can now lead to up to two years in jail and fines of up to AED 100,000.
Drunk driving or reckless behaviour behind the wheel will also result in severe penalties, including automatic arrest, hefty fines and possible imprisonment.
Drivers who cause death, serious injury, or significant property damage will face strict legal action while refusing to cooperate with police could result in immediate arrest.
Using an unrecognised foreign licence could land you a fine between AED 2,000 and AED 10,000, with repeat offenders facing at least three months in jail and fines of up to AED 50,000.
Driving without a valid licence or operating a vehicle outside your permitted category carries even harsher penalties.
First-time offenders could face up to three months in jail or a fine between AED 5,000 and AED 50,000, while repeat offences could result in a minimum of three months behind bars and a fine of up to AED 100,000.
With these new traffic laws in place, time for Abu Dhabi to take note of them all and drive safe!