A comprehensive overhaul of the UAE’s traffic legislation has come into force, with Federal Decree-Law No. 14 of 2024 officially enacted on March 29. The updated law introduces stricter provisions for driving eligibility, licence suspension, vehicle impoundment, and driver arrest—all aimed at improving road safety and supporting the country’s smart transport vision.
Lower Driving Age, Stricter Oversight
One of the most notable changes is the reduction of the minimum driving age to 17. Applicants must still meet medical and fitness standards, and licensing authorities now have broader powers to suspend, revoke, or deny renewal of a licence if a driver is deemed unfit—either physically, mentally, or on grounds of public safety.Driving instruction is also under tighter control. Only certified instructors with valid permits may train others, and they must not allow trainees to drive in populated areas unless they are confident of the trainee’s ability to operate the vehicle safely.
Arrest Powers Expanded
Article 31 of the new law outlines six scenarios where traffic officers can arrest a driver on the spot. These include:
- Causing death or injury while driving
- Causing major damage to property
- Driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or similar substances
- Reckless or dangerous driving
- Refusal to provide accurate personal details or submitting false documents
- Fleeing the scene of an accident or evading a police order to stop
These provisions are intended to address serious breaches of traffic safety and ensure immediate legal accountability.
When Vehicles Can Be Impounded
Article 32 grants traffic authorities the right to impound vehicles in specific situations, including:
- The vehicle is unfit for road use due to missing essential features such as brakes, lights, number plates, or silencers
- A person is caught driving without a valid licence on two occasions
- An unlicensed person is driving the vehicle, unless exempt
- The vehicle has undergone unauthorised modifications without approval from the licensing authority
- The vehicle is linked to an ongoing criminal investigation and required as evidence
- Any other situation specified by the executive regulations of the law
In cases of technical defects, the vehicle may only be transported to a repair facility by tow truck or authorised carrier.
Licence Suspension and Medical Fitness
The law strengthens the link between road safety and driver health. Licensing authorities are now empowered to act on medical reports or behavioural assessments to suspend or deny licences. Drivers may also face reassessment or mandatory rehabilitation programmes.‘Unfitness to drive’ is broadly defined and may include conditions affecting physical coordination, mental stability, or past criminal conduct that poses a risk to public safety.
Supporting a Smarter Transport System
The new legal framework is not just about penalties. It also modernises regulations in line with technological advancements, including revised vehicle classifications and provisions for integrating intelligent transport systems. These changes support the UAE’s broader objective of building a safe, efficient, and forward-looking road network.By tightening enforcement and updating outdated rules, the UAE hopes to reduce accidents, encourage responsible driving, and maintain its momentum as a global leader in transport innovation.
