Driving Rules

Driving in the UAE can be smooth and enjoyable — if you follow the rules. The roads are modern, well-marked, and designed for safety. But to stay safe (and avoid fines), every driver needs to know and follow the driving laws.

Whether you are a local, a tourist, or an expat, safe driving in the UAE is a must. In this blog, we’ll explain the most important driving rules in the UAE in simple and easy language.

Let’s get started!

Always Wear Your Seatbelt

This is ruling number one for a reason.

In the UAE, seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers — not just the driver. That means everyone in the front and back seats must wear their seatbelt at all times.

• Not wearing a seatbelt can lead to a fine of AED 400.
• Children must also be safely seated in a child car seat if under 4 years old.

Why it matters: Seatbelts save lives in accidents. Always buckle up.

Don’t Use Your Phone While Driving

Using your mobile phone while driving is dangerous and illegal.

Even holding your phone in your hand — for calling, texting, or checking maps — can get you in trouble.

• Fine: AED 800
• Black points: 4

What to do instead: Use hands-free options like Bluetooth, or stop safely if you need to use your phone.

Stick to the Speed Limits

Speed limits in the UAE are clearly shown on road signs. Each road has its own limit, depending on the area and traffic type.

Here’s a general guide:

• Inside the city: 60 – 80 km/h
• Highways: 100 – 140 km/h
• School zones and residential areas: 20 – 40 km/h

Driving over the limit can lead to heavy fines — or worse, accidents. Always check the speed signs and stay within the limit.

No Tailgating

Tailgating means driving too close to the car in front of you. It’s very dangerous, especially at high speeds.

• Fine: AED 400
• Black points: 4

Safe distance tip: Keep a 2-3 second gap between your car and the vehicle ahead.

Tailgating is one of the top causes of road accidents in the UAE. Avoid it at all times.

Follow Lane Discipline

Changing lanes without warning or swerving between cars is risky — and illegal.

When you need to change lanes:

• Use your indicator
• Check your mirrors and blind spot
• Switch lanes smoothly and safely

Never change lanes suddenly or without signaling. Doing so can cause confusion and accidents.

Use Headlights Properly

Headlights are not just for nighttime. In low light or bad weather (fog, rain, sandstorm), you must turn on your headlights so others can see you.

But don’t use high beams when another car is close — it can blind the driver and lead to crashes.

Respect Pedestrian Crossings

In the UAE, pedestrians have the right of way at marked crossings.

If someone is crossing the road at a zebra crossing or a pedestrian sign, you must stop and let them pass.

• Not stopping for pedestrians: Fine AED 500 + 6 black points

Drive slowly near schools, malls, and residential areas where people may be walking.

Don’t Drink and Drive — Ever

Drinking and driving is one of the most serious offences in the UAE.

The law here is very clear:
Zero tolerance for alcohol behind the wheel.

• Fine: Up to AED 20,000
• Possible jail time
• Car can be impounded
• Driving license can be suspended or cancelled

If you plan to drink, book a safe ride with a designated driver or chauffeur service like Smart Safe Driver.

Always Carry Your Driving Documents

When you are driving in the UAE, keep these with you:

• Valid UAE driving license
• Emirates ID or passport
• Car registration (Mulkiya)
• Insurance papers

You may be asked to show these during a police check or accident.

Be Careful at Roundabouts

Roundabouts are common in many parts of the UAE, especially in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Sharjah.

Here’s how to drive safely through them:

• Slow down before entering
• Give way to traffic already in the roundabout
• Use your indicator when exiting

Never rush or cut through lanes at a roundabout. Take your time and be alert.

Use Indicators Before Turning

Always signal before making a turn or changing direction. It tells other drivers what you plan to do.

Not using indicators is illegal and dangerous — and can cause accidents.

Remember: Signal early and clearly.

No Blocking Emergency Vehicles

If you see an ambulance, fire truck, or police car with flashing lights behind you — move aside immediately.

Blocking an emergency vehicle is against the law and can cause serious delays.

• Fine: AED 3,000
• Vehicle may be seized for 30 days

Help emergency services do their job. Give way quickly and safely.

Watch Out for Cameras

The UAE uses high-tech road cameras to catch drivers breaking the rules — speeding, jumping red lights, using phones, and more.

Even if you don’t see a police car, you can still get a fine by camera.

So don’t take risks. Drive properly at all times.

Know the Black Points System

In the UAE, drivers get black points for breaking road rules. Each violation has a set number of points.

If you collect 24 black points, your license can be suspended.

Examples:

• Speeding: 4–12 points
• Jumping red light: 8 points
• Using phone: 4 points
• Not stopping for pedestrians: 6 points

Drive safely to keep your points low and your license safe.

Drive Calmly and Respect Others

Road rage, shouting, or rude hand signals can get you in serious trouble in the UAE.

Always stay calm — even if other drivers are impatient or rude. Aggressive driving is illegal and can result in police action.

Be polite, drive safe, and respect others on the road.

Consequences:

Driving in the UAE is easy and safe — if you follow the rules. These laws are made to protect everyone: drivers, passengers, and pedestrians.

Let’s quickly recap the key points:

✅ Wear your seatbelt
✅ Don’t use your phone
✅ Follow speed limits
✅ Keep a safe distance
✅ Use signals and headlights
✅ Respect road signs and people
✅ Never drink and drive
✅ Always stay calm and alert

At Smart Safe Driver, your safety is our top priority. Whether you’re booking a ride or driving your own car, we encourage safe and responsible driving at all times.

Need a Safe Ride in Dubai or Anywhere in the UAE?

Hire a professional driver from Smart Safe Driver and enjoy a smooth, safe journey — every time.