UAE Introduces Stricter Traffic Regulations to Reduce Road Accidents, Experts Call for More Than Financial Sanctions
As the Eid Al Fitr holidays come to an end, residents in the UAE are returning to their daily routines, but with a renewed focus on road safety. The UAE government has enacted updated federal traffic laws, aiming to reduce the number of road accidents and fatalities.
The new laws, introduced on March 29, come with stricter penalties for serious violations. Fines for driving under the influence can reach up to Dh200,000, with severe penalties for repeat offenders, including license suspension and imprisonment. Causing fatalities due to negligence will result in fines of at least Dh50,000, with higher penalties for offenses involving alcohol, drugs, or other aggravating circumstances. Jaywalking fines range from Dh400 to up to Dh10,000 and imprisonment for accidents in high-speed zones.
However, the success of these new laws depends on a broader cultural shift towards responsible driving. Experts argue that this shift involves a critical change in perception about road safety, supported by data-driven approaches to optimize operations and improve road safety outcomes.
Thomas Edelmann, founder of RoadSafetyUAE, emphasizes the importance of fostering a culture of safety that involves all road users. He advocates for greater police presence and stricter enforcement to deter unsafe driving habits. Edelmann also highlights the need for better infrastructure to improve pedestrian safety, including dedicated lanes, improved crossings, and converting existing walkways into multi-use paths.
Technology plays a key role in enhancing road safety. The use of modern security cameras and radars is essential in detecting mobile phone use behind the wheel, a major contributor to road accidents. Phil Clarke, director of road safety and enforcement at 4E Road Safety and Transport Consultants, emphasizes the importance of ongoing education and awareness campaigns.
Experts agree that a multifaceted approach, including stricter enforcement, better infrastructure, educational initiatives, and technological tools, is needed to truly tackle the root causes of dangerous driving behaviors and make the roads safer for all users. They argue that while severe penalties may have an immediate effect, they will not be enough if drivers perceive the risk of being caught as low.
The UAE still performs better than many other countries in terms of road fatalities, according to Dr. Mustafa Aldah, an Emirati road safety expert. However, the latest figures from the Ministry of Interior (MoI) show that road fatalities have seen a slight uptick. In 2024, 384 people died in road accidents, a 9% increase from 2023.
To create a sustainable responsible driving culture, experts suggest using data analytics not only for operational efficiency but also for enhancing road safety strategies. They promote responsible driving as a shared social responsibility and encourage a mindset change among road users to prioritize safety consciously. Integrating these values into broader societal norms and policies is crucial to ensure long-term impact.
These advancements are expected to play a significant role in reducing violations like distracted driving. By working together, the UAE can strive to make its roads safer and reduce the number of road accidents and fatalities.
- The UAE government's enforcement of updated traffic laws with stricter penalties for road accidents and unsafe driving habits is a commendable step, but it needs to be complemented by a broader cultural shift towards road safety.
- Technology, such as the use of modern security cameras and radars, can aid in detecting unsafe driving behaviors and enhancing road safety, but a multifaceted approach that includes better infrastructure, education, and a shared social responsibility towards road safety is essential for long-term impact.
- Integrating values of responsible driving into broader societal norms and policies, and using data analytics for both operational efficiency and road safety strategies, can help create a sustainable responsible driving culture in the UAE, leading to a reduction in road accidents and fatalities.
