New Measures Against Drink Driving in the UAE

The United Arab Emirates is intensifying its stance against drink driving with a series of upcoming laws aimed at enhancing road safety. Dubai, like the rest of the UAE, has a strict zero-tolerance policy for driving under the influence of alcohol. Unlike countries such as the UK, India, and the Philippines, where a small permissible limit exists, the UAE enforces a complete ban on any level of alcohol in the bloodstream.

Under the current regulations, individuals found driving even slightly over the legal limit can face severe penalties, including imprisonment. In October, the UAE government revealed new federal traffic laws that will take effect starting March next year. These new regulations include hefty fines, reaching up to Dhs100,000 for those caught driving under the influence. Moreover, Dubai has robust enforcement measures in place, resulting in substantial black points being added to the offender’s driving record.

Better Alternatives for Getting Home Safely in Dubai

Fortunately, Dubai offers a plethora of options for safely returning home after a night out. If you prefer a direct ride to your doorstep, hailing a taxi is incredibly simple, thanks to numerous ride-hailing apps that can arrange your transportation with just a few taps on your smartphone.

The Top Ride-Hailing Apps in Dubai

• Blacklane – A premium chauffeur and ride-hailing service, offering a fleet of luxury vehicles for a sophisticated travel experience.
• Careem – Dubbed the “everything app,” Careem provides various options, including the more budget-friendly Hala taxi service.
• Dubai Taxi Company – The largest taxi service in Dubai, with an app that allows you to hail rides conveniently.
• Uber – A globally recognized ride-hailing app, it’s widely used by tourists and residents alike.
• XXRIDE – Offers affordable rides across five different vehicle categories, ensuring a suitable option for everyone.
• Yango – This app allows you to book luxury vehicles, such as the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, for a stylish return home.

If you’ve driven to your destination and are concerned about leaving your car overnight, there are safe-driving apps available that can provide a designated driver to take you home in your own vehicle, often at a lower cost than a round-trip taxi fare.

Recommended Safe-Driving Apps in Dubai

• Safe Driver UAE – This service can be booked online, via phone, or through WhatsApp and includes an after-party pickup to ensure you get home safely.
• Zofeur – The most popular safe-driving service, allowing you to hire a professional and trained driver to transport you and your vehicle home.

(Credit: RTA) Additionally, Dubai boasts an extensive public transport network that covers most areas of the city. The Metro operates until midnight from Monday to Thursday and Saturday to Sunday, extending its hours to 1 AM on Fridays. While the Metro is the most efficient and economical mode of transportation, bus and tram services are available until 1 AM daily, with buses spanning a broader area of the city.

Consequences of Drink Driving in Dubai

The UAE government has introduced new penalties effective from March 29, 2025, designed to deter dangerous driving behaviors. According to the new federal decree law, individuals caught driving or attempting to drive under the influence of alcohol will face imprisonment and fines ranging from Dhs20,000 to Dhs100,000, or both. This update revises the previously existing Federal Law No. 21 of 1995, which stipulated similar penalties for driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs.

In Dubai, the total fine imposed will be determined by the court. Offenders will receive 23 black points on their driving record and face a 60-day vehicle confiscation by law enforcement. It is crucial to note that drivers can maintain their licenses as long as their total black points do not exceed 23; surpassing this threshold results in the suspension of their driving privileges.

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