A broad overhaul of the UAE traffic law has come into force, officially implemented on March 29 with the federal decree-law number 14 of 2024. Updated law introduces strict provisions for eligibility, license suspension, vehicle impulse and driver arrest-all aims to improve road safety and support the country’s smart transport vision.
Low driving age, strict oversight
One of the most notable changes is reduced by up to 17 minimum driving age. Applicants should still meet medical and fitness standards, and licensed authorities now have broader powers to suspend, cancel or renew a license if a driver is considered unfit – either physical, mentally, or on public safety basis.Driving instructions are also under tight control. Only certified trainers with valid permits can train others, and should not allow trainees to drive in populated areas until they are convinced of the trainee’s ability to safely operate the vehicle.
Arrest powers expanded
Article 31 of the new law has a framework of six scenarios where traffic officers can arrest the driver on the spot. This includes:
- Causes of death or injury while driving
- Property damaged
- Driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs or similar substances
- Careless or dangerous driving
- Refusal to provide accurate personal details or submit false documents
- To remove the order of the police to run away from the scene of an accident
The purpose of these provisions is to address serious violations of traffic safety and ensure immediate legal accountability.
When vehicles can be installed
Article 32 gives traffic officers the right to implement vehicles in specific situations, including:
- Vehicle is disqualified for road use due to missing facilities like brakes, lights, number plates, or silencer
- A person is caught driving without a valid license on two occasions
- A person with an unlicensed person is driving until the discount
- The vehicle has to undergo unauthorized amendments without approval from the licensing authority
- The vehicle is associated with an ongoing criminal investigation and is required as evidence
- Any other situation specified by the executive rules of law
In cases of technical defects, the vehicle can only be transported to the repair facility by the TO truck or authorized carrier.
License suspension and medical fitness
The law strengthens the link between road safety and driver health. Licensing officers have now been empowered to work on medical reports or behavior assessments to suspend or reject the license. Drivers may also face revaluation or compulsory rehabilitation programs.‘Drive to Drive’ is broadly defined and may include physical coordination, mental stability, or conditions affecting previous criminal conduct that pose risk for public safety.
Supporting a smart transport system
The new legal structure is not just about punishment. It also modernizes the rules in line with technological progress, including provisions to integrate revised vehicle classification and intelligent transport systems. These changes support UAE’s widespread objectives of building safe, skilled and forward -looking road networks.Hope to tighten the enforcement and update the old rules, to reduce the UAE accidents, encourage responsible driving and maintain their speed as a global leader in transport innovation.
