The UAE government has announced a new federal decree-law concerning traffic regulations, allowing individuals aged 17 and above to apply for a driving license. This change underscores the government’s commitment to keeping pace with the rapid evolution of global transportation.
According to a statement on X, the federal decree-law is designed to align with the swift changes in transportation worldwide.
Key updates
- Vehicle classifications: Adjustments have been made to recognize the increase in self-driving, electric, and personal transportation vehicles.
- Self-driving vehicle standards: The Cabinet has also established new protocols for the inspection, registration, licensing, re-registration, and renewal of self-driving vehicles, along with guidelines for technology trials.
- Obligations for personal transport users: In addition, specific responsibilities for users of personal transport devices have been outlined through a Cabinet resolution.
- Minimum age for driving license: Furthermore, individuals 17 years and older can now apply for a driving license.
- Pedestrian regulations: Pedestrians are prohibited from crossing roads where speed limits exceed 80 km/h and may face civil or criminal liability for violations.
- Noise and alarm regulations: Moreover, the use of excessively loud vehicles and alarms in urban areas is restricted, with alarms permitted only for safety purposes.
- Transporting hazardous materials: In addition, a permit from the relevant authority is required for transporting hazardous materials or unusual loads.
- Strict penalties: Also, severe penalties are imposed for offenses such as causing death while driving under the influence, leaving the scene of an accident, improperly crossing roads, or driving through flood-prone areas during floods.
This decree further aims to enhance safety and align the UAE’s traffic laws with contemporary transportation trends.
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
Recent developments in Dubai
Earlier this month, Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority completed eight traffic enhancement projects in educational zones across the emirate, benefiting 37 schools. This initiative is part of RTA’s broader strategy to optimize the road network, especially around schools, in line with the city’s urban development goals. The improvements are further designed to support various road users, including educators, bus drivers, and students’ families, while prioritizing safety.
Key locations for improvements
The projects targeted several key areas, including:
- Kings’ School Dubai on Umm Suqeim Street
- The International School of Choueifat and Dubai College on Hessa Street
- Al Safa Schools Complex
- School of Research Science in Al Warqa 4
- Al Qusais Schools Complex
- Al Mizhar Schools Complex
- Nad Al Sheba Schools Complex
- Al Tawar Schools Complex 2
Major enhancements
Key improvements included:
- Widening streets leading to schools
- Adding parking spaces for staff and parents
- Enhancing school entrances and exits
- Implementing traffic diversions in surrounding areas
- Paving parking areas and designating safe drop-off and pick-up zones for students
In September 2024, Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority also completed traffic improvements on Umm Suqeim Street with the opening of a new roadway leading to Kings’ School. This 500-meter street further features two lanes in each direction, connecting the school’s entrances to a newly established detour, reducing traffic congestion by up to 40 percent during peak hours.
These enhancements are part of Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority’s 2024 rapid traffic improvement plan, which focuses on upgrading the road network, improving traffic flow, and increasing capacity to support Dubai’s sustainable development while enhancing safety for all road users.
Read more: Dubai traffic fine: Complete list 2024
Upcoming projects
In April 2024, Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority also awarded a contract for the Al Khaleej Street Tunnel Project, designed to support the ongoing development of the Al Shindagha Corridor in response to rapid population growth and urbanization.
Additionally, the new tunnel will extend from the Infinity Bridge ramp in Deira to the intersection of Al Khaleej and Cairo Streets, featuring six lanes over 1,650 meters, capable of accommodating up to 12,000 vehicles per hour in both directions.
This corridor also spans 13 kilometers along Sheikh Rashid Road, Al Mina Street, Al Khaleej Street, and Cairo Street, upgrading 15 intersections. The project is expected to benefit numerous residential and developmental communities, including Dubai Islands, Dubai Waterfront, Dubai Maritime City, and Mina Rashid, serving around one million residents and projected to reduce travel times from 104 minutes to just 16 minutes by 2030.
Types of traffic fines in Dubai
Dubai has established various traffic fines, each aimed at addressing specific violations to promote road safety and order. Here are the primary categories:
- Speeding fines: These fines are levied on drivers who exceed the designated speed limits on Dubai’s roads. Speeding is a significant contributor to accidents, and these penalties are intended to discourage reckless driving.
- Parking fines: Issued to drivers who park in prohibited zones or neglect to pay for parking, these fines help maintain smooth traffic flow and ensure accessibility.
- Traffic violation fines: This category encompasses a variety of offenses, including running red lights, failing to yield, and reckless driving. Such violations pose risks not only to the driver but also to other road users.
- Black point fines: Accumulating black points on your driving license can result in serious repercussions, including license suspension. These points are assigned for significant violations and act as a deterrent against repeated offenses.
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