Abu Dhabi Police has warned motorists in the United Arab Emirates of severe penalties due to their reckless driving behavior on the streets. Authorities announced strict penalties for actions that put lives at risk, including actions such as opening car doors while vehicles are in motion and filming social media videos on the road.
The warning is part of a larger campaign by the official to promote “smart road safety” with authorities stressing that such measures can lead to serious accidents and put not only drivers but also other road users at risk.
A clear violation of traffic laws
The police said that these behaviors are clear violations of traffic laws and constitute a direct threat to public safety. They urged motorists across the emirate to act responsibly towards their lives and the lives of others while also advising them to adhere to safe driving practices at all times. They explained that road safety is a shared responsibility and that the pursuit of fame online does not justify putting people’s lives at risk.
Penalties and fines
Under UAE traffic regulations, the penalty for endangering the lives of others includes a fine of 2,000 dirhams and 23 black points on the driving licence. It also includes impounding the vehicle for a period of 60 days with motorists having to pay 50,000 dirhams to release the impounded vehicle. The authorities stressed that they will take strict legal measures against violators of the law.
In January 2026, Abu Dhabi Police officials issued strict warnings and penalties for disturbing driving and noisy vehicles. They emphasized that loud, noisy engines and other forms of disruptive driving pose public safety concerns. Under Article 20 of the Traffic and Circulation Law, motorists who drive vehicles that cause excessive noise face a fine of 2,000 dirhams and having 12 black points deducted from their driving license, if they are found to have violated the law.
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