The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has taken a big step to curb pedestrian accidents by enforcing the UAE jaywalking laws. Moreover, the authorities have updated the road-use regulations to protect pedestrians and motorists because nearly 44,000 jaywalkers were caught by Dubai RTA in January 2024 alone, and eight tragic run-over fatalities occurred.
The new Federal Decree-Law No. 14 of 2024, effective from March 29, highlights safe crossing practices and introduces harsher criminal and civil liabilities for violations. Today, we will introduce you to the new rules, penalties, and essential safety guidelines every UAE resident must follow.
Understanding the New UAE Jaywalking Laws
Harsher Penalties for Unsafe Crossing
Previously, pedestrians caught crossing from non-designated areas were fined Dh400. Moreover, consequences have escalated significantly, especially when jaywalking results in an accident. According to the new decree, crossing from the undesignated areas leading to a traffic accident might result in imprisonment and Dh5,000 to Dh 10,000.
Jaywalking on roads with an 80 km/h speed limit or higher may result in the following punishments:
- A minimum of 3 months in jail
- A fine of at least Dh10,000
- Or both criminal and civil liability
Article 7: Clear Restrictions for Pedestrians
Article 7 highlights strict toad-use rules for pedestrians, cyclists, escooter users, and personal mobility device users. Moreover, the law states that no person is allowed to perform the following:
- Stop in the middle of the road
- Cross from undesignated or unsafe areas
These methods were introduced to address the increasing number of accidents caused by careless road-crossing behaviour.
Why the UAE Enforced Stricter Regulations
It is true that jaywalking might seem convenient. However, it has proven fatal in many cases. Moreover, high-speed zones are dangerous, as drivers often cannot react in time when pedestrians suddenly appear on the road. Hence, the new law has the following aims:
- improve overall road safety
- Reduce pedestrian fatalities
- Encourage responsible use of public infrastructure
- Support the UAE’s long-term smart mobility initiatives
How to Avoid Jaywalking Penalties
The following are examples of jaywalking:
- Crossing from a non-designated area
- Crossing when the pedestrian signal is red
- Failing to follow traffic signal instructions
- Not using available pedestrian infrastructure
Pedestrians are allowed to ensure the signal is green and traffic is completely stopped, even at a zebra crossing.
Safe Crossing Options Provided Across the UAE
The following are the safe crossing options that residents can use to avoid penalties and fines:
- Footbridges
- Underpasses / subways
- Smart pedestrian crossings
- Signal-controlled zebra crossings
These facilities are designed to support safe, convenient, and accessible crossings for all.
RTA’s Key Safety Tips for Pedestrians
Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has released the following guidelines to help residents stay safe on the UAE roads:
Do’s
- ✔ Look and listen in all directions before crossing
- ✔ Make eye contact with drivers
- ✔ Wear reflective clothing at night
- ✔ Walk facing oncoming traffic if no pavement exists
Don’ts
- ✘ Don’t use your phone at crossings
- ✘ Don’t wear headphones—stay alert
- ✘ Don’t cross when the pedestrian light is red
- ✘ Don’t assume vehicles will stop automatically
It is important to follow these rules to avoid fines and protect your precious life.
Key Takeaways
The new UAE jaywalking laws send a strong message that pedestrian responsibility is a shared responsibility. Moreover, the government aims to dramatically reduce road accidents through stricter penalties, increased awareness campaigns,
On the other side, residents have the option to protect themselves by using designated crossing areas, obeying pedestrian signals, and staying alert at all times. Remember, every small step is important for safety.
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