On Tuesday, Dubai Police introduced more stringent regulations targeting distracted driving, tailgating, and sudden lane deviations, with offenders now facing vehicle impoundment for up to 30 days. The new measures have been met with approval from many residents in the emirate, who hope that the stricter rules will deter risky driving behaviors.
Dubai resident Nasreen praised the initiative, stating, "I believe this is a fantastic idea as I frequently observe people using their phones while driving. The traffic situation has become unpredictable recently, and this severe punishment might encourage people to rethink their actions." She recounted how her niece faced considerable difficulties after her car was impounded for inadvertently running a red light.
Abeer Faisal, a Sudanese resident, also welcomed the new laws, asserting that harsher penalties would make drivers more vigilant. "It's alarming how a minor distraction can lead to significant consequences," she noted, emphasizing that modern car technology should reduce the need for drivers to use their phones. "People need to be more patient on the roads—a few extra minutes won't harm anyone."
However, some residents, like Mohamed A., expressed concerns about the severity of the new penalties. "While I recognize the importance of addressing phone usage, I feel that 30 days is excessive. It's crucial to be cautious, but there needs to be a balance," he remarked.
Experts support the move, highlighting that distracted driving is a major contributor to traffic fatalities, accounting for 26% of such incidents. Thomas Edelmann, founder and managing director of Road Safety UAE, cited Ministry of Interior data from 2023, which ranked distracted driving as the leading cause of accidents. Edelmann explained, "Distracted driving, particularly due to mobile phone use, is the primary hazard on our roads." He also noted that international research indicates distracted drivers are four times more likely to be involved in a crash compared to focused drivers, with those texting while driving being 20 times more likely to crash.
Edelmann emphasized the dangers of using mobile phones while driving, stating, "It combines all four types of distractions—taking your eyes off the road, your hands off the wheel, your mind off driving, and auditory distractions. Each is dangerous on its own, but together, they exponentially increase the risk." He added that this behavior reflects a lack of consideration for other road users and that strict enforcement is essential for improving road safety. "Fines not only have a financial impact but also serve an educational purpose, reminding motorists of their responsibilities," he concluded.
In addition to the 30-day impoundment for major offenses, the amended law includes a range of other infractions that will result in a 14-day vehicle seizure. These include reversing dangerously, failing to maintain lane discipline, stopping the vehicle on the shoulder of the road in non-emergency situations, dangerous overtaking, and driving a vehicle without a license plate.
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