Avoid These Common Mistakes to Prevent Traffic Fines in Dubai

Dubai offers an unparalleled driving experience —state-of-the-art infrastructure, swoon worthy expansive highways, and cutting edge technology for monitoring road safety. That being said, the government is also very strict with the adherence of traffic rules for everyone and violating them would result in hefty traffic fines.

So, whether you're a resident or a visitor, understanding the nuances of Dubai's traffic rules is key to a hassle-free driving experience. For this reason alone, we have created this guide that dives deep into:

• Common driving mistakes

• Details of fines imposed by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA)

Driving in Dubai: What Sets It Apart?

Dubai's road accommodates a diverse population, which means you will encounter drivers with varying habits and styles influenced by global cultures. Here are two significant things that set these roads apart: 

• The speed limit is the number mentioned on round red-bordered signage. This is the general speed limit. In the Emirates, outside Abu Dhabi, the general speed limit has an additional buffer of 20 km/hr. This means if the speed limit is 100 km/hr, the drivers can drive up to 120 km/hr without facing the risk of penalties. In Abu Dhabi, this rule is not applicable and going above the enforceable limit will activate radar cameras.

• Fines are not only monetary but also include black points. Accumulation of these black points can lead to license suspension and vehicle impoundment. 

Common Driving Mistakes To Avoid 

1. Over-speeding

Speeding remains one of the most common violations in Dubai. The radar systems are placed strategically across the city to make it nearly impossible to get away with exceeding speeding limits. The urban roads typically allow a speed limit ranging from 6-80 kms/hrs whereas the highways allow a range of 100-120 kms/hr.  

Exceeding these limits can result in fines, anywhere from AED 300 to AED 3000, depending on how severe your offence is. 

2. Using a Phone While Driving 

Using phones while driving is a big no in Dubai. However, there's an exception to this rule in the form of hands-free devices. So whether you want to make a call, drop a text, or do anything else, restrain yourself, or you may face fines of AED 800 and 4 black points. 

3. Running Red Lights 

No matter how late you're running, you cannot afford to run over a red light. Why? This could result in heavy fines (AED 1,000), penalty points (12 black points), and even vehicle impoundment at times. 

4. Lane Discipline

Erratic lane changes or drifting can cause unforeseen accidents on the road and pose a risk to everyone on the roads. Consequently, drivers must use indicators before changing lanes and avoid cutting off other vehicles. Not doing this can result in fines of AED 400 or more. 

5. Drunk Driving 

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs can lead to severe consequences. Besides putting your life at risk and others as well, drunk driving can result in AED 20,000 fine, 23 black points, and a 60-day vehicle confiscation period. Unlike other countries, the legal blood alcohol limit is zero here, making it the strictest in the world. 

6. Tailgating 

Driving too close to the vehicle ahead reduces the reaction time in case of sudden slowdown or stops. This may lead to accidents. As a result, the RTA has employed cameras to monitor tailgating on roads as well as highways. This means there is no escape from a penalty if you break the rule. 

A good rule of thumb is to maintain a 2-3 seconds safety gap and increase this distance while driving at high speeds. Failure to do so may lead to a AED 400 fine, 4 black points, and even a vehicle confiscation period.

7. Driving Without Seat Belts 

Dubai driving regulations take safety a notch higher. It requires not just the driver but everyone in the vehicle to wear a seatbelt. This can result in an AED 400 fine and 4 black points. 

8. Illegal Parking 

Don't be in a hurry to park your car anywhere without checking for a parking or a no-parking signage. A small mistake like this can slap you with a fine ranging from AED 200 to AED 1,000. Remember, Dubai has designated spots for special needs which require a permit.

9. Not Giving Way to Pedestrians 

Dubai is a smart city with dedicated crossings for pedestrians. This is also done keeping in mind the speed at which the vehicles run on the wide, well-maintained roads. Your failure to give way to the pedestrians can result in AED 500. You may also face black points in some cases. A good point to note here is that pedestrians themselves need to follow certain rules to avoid penalties.  

10. Driving Without a Valid License or Insurance 

Before you take your vehicle to the road, it is important to ensure that you have all the required documents and insurances in place. For those in the city for short-term visits, a valid driver's license from home may be valid. However, if you are going to stick around for more time, then you need to apply for a UAE driver's license. Violation of these rules can result in AED 500 fine and 4 black points.

11. Other Violations

Some of the other violations include:

• Driving with expired tyres resulted in a fine of AED 500, 4 black points, and a 7-day vehicle confiscation period.

• Tinted windows, which leads to an AED 1500 fine. 

• Vehicles that make noise. For this, you will have to pay an AED 2,000 fine. You also earn 12 black points. 

• Driving with children under the age of 4 who are not in their children's seats. It can lead to a fine of AED 400. 

How to Check for Your Fines

Dubai allows you to check your fines conveniently to help you stay updated. Here's how you can check them:

• By visiting the Dubai Police website and entering your license plate or traffic file number

• Via the Dubai Police app or the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) app

• By using self-service kiosks at the RTA centers, which use your license plate number or traffic file number

Conclusion

Driving in Dubai is an enjoyable experience if you follow all the rules and regulations to avoid these common mistakes and the heavy penalties that come with them. Remember, at no cost should you cross 24 black points within a year. That's because going over will lead to license suspension. This period can vary, and regaining your license may require you to complete a traffic safety course. So be mindful before and during your drives in Dubai.