UAE: Abu Dhabi Records Over 300,000 Motorists Fined for Slow Driving Last Year

Abu Dhabi’s Battle Against Slow Driving: Over 300,000 Motorists Fined Last Year

Abu Dhabi has taken bold steps to confront the menace of slow driving on its roads, with recent data revealing that over 300,000 motorists faced fines for driving below the minimum speed limit in the emirate last year. This alarming revelation underscores the pressing need to address the issue of slow driving, which poses significant risks to road safety and traffic efficiency.

According to federal traffic laws, drivers found operating vehicles below the minimum speed limit and failing to yield to faster-moving traffic face fines of Dh400. These penalties are aimed at promoting responsible driving behavior and ensuring the smooth flow of traffic across UAE roads. The legislation mandates that slower vehicles should occupy the right lanes, while the left lanes are reserved for faster-moving and overtaking vehicles.

In a proactive move to combat slow driving and improve traffic flow, Abu Dhabi authorities introduced a minimum speed limit of 120kph on the first two lanes of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Road in both directions. This initiative, implemented in May 2023, seeks to reduce traffic accidents and enhance overall road safety. Despite this measure, the maximum speed limit on this major highway remains at 140kph, with slower vehicles encouraged to use the third lane, where no minimum speed limit is enforced.

Additionally, tailgating, or the failure to maintain a safe distance between vehicles, is considered a serious offense under Abu Dhabi’s traffic regulations. Drivers caught tailgating face fines of Dh400, with an additional penalty of four black points on their driving record for the trailing vehicle. Advanced tailgating detection systems in Abu Dhabi can identify and penalize both the vehicle in front and the one trailing behind if they are occupying the fast lane.

These stringent measures reflect Abu Dhabi’s unwavering commitment to enhancing road safety and protecting the well-being of all road users. By addressing issues such as slow driving and tailgating, authorities aim to create safer road environments and reduce the incidence of traffic accidents. Through proactive enforcement strategies and comprehensive public awareness campaigns, Abu Dhabi continues to strive towards realizing its vision of safer and more efficient transportation infrastructure for residents and visitors alike.