Dubai updates laws for traffic violations

Dubai drivers using mobile phones while operating a vehicle or tailgating may have their vehicle impounded for 30 days, the Official Gazette published on Tuesday.

Previously, using a mobile phone while driving was only punishable with a AED 800 fine and four traffic point.

The new legislation also includes several other offences that may result in vehicle impoundment for 14 to 30 days:

1. Sudden movement of the vehicle that poses a danger to lives or property - 30 days.
2. Entering a road without ensuring it is safe to do so -14 days.
3. Reversing the vehicle in a manner that poses a threat to lives or property -14 days.
4. Light vehicles not adhering to assigned lanes - 14 days.
5. Heavy vehicles failing to adhere to assigned lanes - 30 days.
6. Stopping in the middle of a road without justification - 14 days.
7. Overtaking in a dangerous manner - 14 days.
8. Vehicles that lack proper safety conditions -  14 days.
9. Stopping a vehicle on the shoulder of a road during non-emergency situations or overtaking other vehicles through the shoulder – 14 days.
10. Driving without a license place or with one license plate – 14 days.
11. Driving in a manner that causes traffic – 14 days.
12. Changing the colour of the vehicle without permission – 14 days.

Dubai Police have been stressing the importance of road safety, most recently surrounding using mobile phones while driving.

Earlier this month, Major General Saif Muhair Al Mazroui, Director of the General Department of Traffic at Dubai Police, said, “Using a phone while behind the wheel not only diverts a driver's attention but also significantly increases the likelihood of accidents. A momentary lapse in concentration while checking social media or texting can have devastating consequences.”

He added 99 accidents have been while drivers were using their device over the last eight months, leading to six deaths and 58 injuries.

The Dubai Police General Department of Traffic said the main causes of fatal accidents are sudden swerves, failure to maintain a safe distance, and failure to give priority to other road users.