Dubai is well-equipped with the best-in-class and modern transportation infrastructure in the world. Thus, the city has developed new traffic rules to control and streamline traffic flow on the roads.
The new traffic rules in Dubai were introduced to regulate traffic flow and make it easier for drivers to navigate the city. The new rules are as follows:
- Drivers in Dubai must use headlights during the daytime and at night
- Drivers must give way to pedestrians crossing at zebra crossings or if they are on footpaths or sidewalks and when they are waiting at bus stops or taxi stands.
- Vehicles with passengers can only overtake other cars if they have a green arrow signal, which means that it is safe enough for them to do so
- Drivers should allow emergency vehicles and cyclists to pass by at intersections
- Drivers must not use phones while driving
- No vehicle may cross a solid line on the road except when it is safe to do so and by using a traffic light.
The Dubai Police are responsible for enforcing traffic violations, and they have a dedicated department for the same.
The fines vary depending on the violation. For example, if caught running a red light while driving in Dubai, the penalty is AED 1000.
Eligibility to drive in Dubai
You must be at least 18 years old to drive your own car or rent a luxury car in Dubai and have a valid driver’s license and a vehicle registration card.
To apply for a driver’s license, you need to provide the following:
- A valid passport or residence visa -A letter of employment (if applicable)
- A letter from your sponsor (if applicable) -Two passport-size photographs
Driving licenses for foreigners in Dubai
Foreigners can apply for a driving license at the age of 18. However, they need to fulfil specific requirements to be eligible.
To get a driver’s license, foreigners need to go through the process of getting an International Driving Permit. If they do not have one, they can obtain a temporary permit. The permit is valid for one year from the date it was issued and needs to be renewed every year. They must also take a written and practical driving test to get their driver’s license.
Avoid fines in Dubai by following eight rules
No matter whether you are an expert driver or not, you can still commit mistakes while driving. Moving forward in this blog, we will discuss some Dubai traffic rules you should adhere to avoid fines.
Avoid over speeding
It is the most common mistake that any driver commits. As per new traffic rules in Dubai, over speeding is considered illegal. Hence, you should restrict your speed limit to 50 kmph; otherwise, be prepared to face a fine of AED 1000. To avoid this fine, better not to race with other vehicles on the road.
Do not stop your car in the middle of the road
This is one of the other traffic rules to avoid in Dubai. If you stop or park your car in the middle of the road, you will be fined AED 1000. Don’t worry, as it does not apply to cars or vehicles broken down in the middle of the road.
Change your habit of littering from the car
Don’t even think of littering a wrapper of candy from your car. If you are found guilty, then new traffic rules in Dubai have a provision to fine you AED 1000 and levy additional six black points.
Never crowd near the site of the accident
If you ever witness an accident on Dubai roads, avoid crowding near the site, and you should instead call the emergency number 999 for rescue. Crowding near the accident site is a punishable offence because it obstructs the medical and rescue teams’ services. Congestion near the accident site will delay the ambulance and emergency vehicles from reaching the spot. Hence, be vigilant when encountering such a situation; otherwise, you will be fined AED 1000 by Dubai police.
Never ignore a school bus stop sign
If a school bus has put up a “Stop” sign, you must halt your drive at once and that too at least five meters away from the crossing. It is done to ensure the safety and security of students while crossing the road. If you fail to adhere to this traffic rule in Dubai, you will be fined AED 1000 with additional ten black points.
Avoid jumping red light
Every driver has the instinct to pass a traffic signal right before it turns red. But mind it, if you are trying to do it in Dubai, you are at great risk. For this offence, you can face a fine of AED 1000 with additional 12 black points to your driving license. Furthermore, seizing your vehicle for 30 days is also a provision. If you want to release your vehicle before 30 days, you need to pay AED 3000. Apart from that, a motorist’s driving license can also be suspended for six months. Remember, if you fail to get the seized vehicle released before 30 days, it will be auctioned off.
Driving swerves are not encouraged
Unexpected vehicle deviation is one of the traffic rules to avoid in Dubai. Sudden deviations while driving can cause severe accidents and damage. It happens with distracted drivers who are less focused on their driving. For the “Sudden deviation of a vehicle” offence, Dubai traffic rules can levy a fine of AED 1000.
Never overtake from the “hard shoulder”
The yellow lines marked lanes to the extreme right, or left of the road are known as “hard shoulders’ in Dubai. These lanes are meant for emergency service vehicles, such as ambulances, police patrols etc., to reach the accident site swiftly. These lanes can also be used by cars breaking down while riding. If you use a hard shoulder to overtake any vehicle, you will be fined AED 1000.
Wrap up
If you are already in Dubai or planning to visit, the aforesaid traffic rules list will be helpful for you. Adhering to Dubai traffic rules will help you avoid fines and enjoy the city to its optimum.
