The UAE’s bustling roads serve as more than simply routes; they are a representation of the country’s quick development, aspirations, and modernity. Numerous residents and tourists traverse these roads every year, taking in the lively pulse of this dynamic country up close. Yet, with this growth and energy comes a critical responsibility: to maintain the highest standards of road safety and ensure that all drivers share a commitment to careful, lawful driving.
In a recent move to reinforce these standards, the Dubai Police issued Administrative Decree No. (1) of 2024, which introduces tougher penalties for certain traffic violations in UAE, particularly through vehicle impoundment. With these modifications, the UAE confirms its commitment to not just meeting but also surpassing international standards for road safety, fostering an atmosphere where residents as well as tourists may feel comfortable while navigating the lively metropolitan landscape of the country. Read on as we delve into the details of these new regulations to help ensure every journey is as safe and compliant as possible.
The Need for Stricter Measures
The rise in the number of road accidents over the years has made the authorities reconsider the existing laws, and a new order, issued by Commander-in-Chief Abdullah Khalifa Al-Marri, amending Decree No. 29/2015 on impounding vehicles, stipulates this. This move signifies a proactive approach to enhancing road safety and protecting both lives and property, and the increase in fines and the duration of vehicle impoundment for certain violations reflect the seriousness with which the UAE addresses these issues.
Key Points of the Administrative Decree
Understanding the Decree
The newly enacted decree outlines specific cases and durations of administrative vehicle impoundment. The intent is clear, to deter dangerous driving behaviours that compromise safety. Here are the critical elements to consider:
- Duration of Impoundment: Automobiles may be impounded for 14–30 days, depending on the seriousness of the violation.
- Types of Violations: The decree specifies various infractions that can lead to impoundment, each detailed with a corresponding duration.
- Enforcement Authority: The General Traffic Department, or its authorized representatives, hold the power to enforce these impoundments based on traffic control reports.
Specific Cases and Impoundment Durations
The decree categorizes violations and the corresponding impoundment durations as follows:
30-Day Impoundment Violations
- Sudden Deviation: Any abrupt movement that jeopardizes life or property.
- Failure to Maintain Safety Distance: Not keeping an adequate gap between vehicles.
- Distracted driving by mobile phones or other.
- Failure of a heavy vehicle to adhere to the mandatory traffic lane.
14-Day Impoundment Violations
- Entering Traffic without Ensuring Safety: A crucial error that can lead to accidents.
- Reversing Unsafely: Endangering others while reversing can have serious consequences.
- Failure of a Light Vehicle to Adhere to Traffic Lanes: Not following designated lanes leads to confusion and danger.
- Stopping Needlessly: It puts other drivers in danger when you stop in the middle of the road.
- Risky Overtaking: Using dangerous overtaking techniques puts all drivers on the road in danger.
- Insufficient Safety Features: Cars must meet all applicable safety regulations.
- Stopping on Road Shoulders: It is forbidden to stop on shoulders when there is no urgency.
- Driving Without Proper Registration: Penalties will be applied to vehicles that are not fully registered.
- Obstructing Traffic: Driving in a way that interferes with the flow of traffic is illegal.
- Unauthorized Vehicle Modifications: Impoundment may result from altering a vehicle’s color without authorization.
Implications for Drivers and Rental Services
These rules emphasize how crucial it is to followtraffic laws for tourists as well as locals. Drivers must continue to be diligent and obedient in order to avoid fines and the inconvenience of having their vehicles seized, since the penalties have become more severe.
Hertz: Your Partner in Responsible Driving
Hertz, one of the top vehicle rental companies in the UAE, is committed to encouraging its clients to drive responsibly. Some of the most common traffic fines in the UAE, based on Hertz data, include:
- Exceeding the speed limit
- Failure to pay for parking
- Poor lane discipline
- Ignoring traffic signals
- Failure to wear seat belts
- Using a phone while driving
Any associated fees will be charged to the customer, along with a 12% administration fee for managing these transactions, even if Hertz is willing to help with the administrative aspects of any penalties received during the rental term. There may occasionally be a delay between the date of the infraction and the customer’s notification since fines are invoiced when they are posted by the appropriate authorities.
Please note that Hertz is not liable for any delays in invoicing or for the accuracy of fines due to variations in information received from government systems. We encourage all renters to drive responsibly, ensuring their journey is compliant with Dubai road traffic rules.
As we adapt to these updated regulations, let’s prioritize safety on every journey. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor exploring the UAE’s dynamic landscape, we can all play a part in creating safer roads for everyone. With Hertz Flexible Monthly Rentals from Hertz UAE, you can enjoy the freedom of a reliable, well-maintained vehicle and a trusted partner committed to safety and compliance, giving you peace of mind on the road.