Under the UAE’s new Traffic Law (the Federal Decree-Law No. 14 of 2024 on Traffic Regulation), penalties for drunk driving in Dubai include fines, imprisonment, licence suspension, cancellation, and heavier consequences in the case of fatal accidents.
The legislation sets out severe penalties for drunk driving. Below, we answer the most important questions about driving under the influence of alcohol in Dubai in 2025.
Contact our expert lawyers in the UAE. Click the WhatsApp icon below.
Table of Contents
Drink and Drive Punishment in Dubai
Clause (1) of Article 35 of the Federal Decree-Law No. 14 of 2024 states that anyone who drives or attempts to drive a vehicle on the road while under the influence of alcohol shall be subject to imprisonment and a fine ranging from Dh20,000 to Dh100,000, or one of these two penalties.
What are the severe penalties for drunk driving under the new regulations in Dubai?
The severe penalties are:
- Imprisonment – Anyone found guilty may face jail time.
- Fines – A financial penalty between Dh20,000 and Dh100,000.
- First offence – Licence suspension for at least three months.
- Second offence – Licence suspension for six months.
- Third offence – Licence cancellation.
- Fatal accident – If drunk driving causes the death of a person, the penalty is a fine of not less than Dh100,000 and/or imprisonment for not less than one year.
How does Federal Decree-Law No. 14 of 2024 address violations involving alcohol and driving?
The law addresses violations as follows:
- Clause (1) of Article 35 – Driving or attempting to drive under the influence of alcohol leads to imprisonment and/or fines between Dh20,000 and Dh100,000.
- Licence penalties – Depending on whether it is the first, second, or third offence, a driver faces suspension (3 months or 6 months) or complete cancellation.
- Article 40 – If drunk driving causes the death of a person, the penalty is a fine of not less than Dh100,000 and/or imprisonment for not less than one year.
As a Dubai-based law firm, we assist clients facing charges related to drunk driving under Federal Decree-Law No. 14 of 2024. Our legal services include:
- Representation in Drunk Driving Cases – Defending clients charged under Article 35 and Article 40.
- Advice on Driving Licence Penalties – Supporting clients with suspension or cancellation matters.
- Case Mitigation and Appeals – Assisting in appeals or applications for reduced penalties where legally permitted.
- Our legal expertise ensures precise and accurate guidance in cases involving driving under the influence of alcohol in Dubai.
Learn more:
FAQs about Intoxicated Driving Penalties in Dubai
Contact our advocates in the UAE for professional help. Click the WhatsApp icon below.
UAE Advocator Editorial is a team of qualified legal graduates specializing in UAE law and regulations. They provide expert, clear, and up-to-date legal analysis, insights, and commentary tailored for legal professionals, businesses, and individuals navigating the UAE’s complex legal landscape. As a trusted source for accurate and reliable information, UAE Advocator helps readers stay informed on the UAE’s latest legal developments, legislation, and court rulings.