Driving slow in the fast lane? Dubai Police warn against going below speed limit
Dubai Police have urged drivers to maintain speeds above the minimum limit in fast lanes, warning that slow driving in these lanes can cause confusion and increase the risk of collisions. The reminder, posted on X, comes as many motorists express frustration over vehicles blocking fast lanes and disrupting the flow of traffic.
In their statement, the authority emphasised that staying above the minimum speed helps keep traffic moving safely. Slow driving in fast lanes not only slows down other vehicles but can also lead to dangerous situations where drivers have to brake suddenly or change lanes unexpectedly.
Many motorists agree with this assessment. Ahmed Mustafa, a regular driver between Dubai and Abu Dhabi, shared how slow vehicles in fast lanes sometimes trigger road rage. 'I usually travel with cruise control set at the speed limit, but when I approach a car driving slowly in the fast lane and they don't move over, it really frustrates me,' he said.
In 2023, 300,147 motorists were fined by traffic departments for driving below the minimum speed limit on UAE roads. This slow driving contributed to various accidents, as per statistics from the Ministry of Interior on traffic accidents.
According to federal traffic law, a fine of Dh400 is imposed for driving a vehicle below the minimum speed limit and failing to prioritise vehicles coming from behind or from the overtaking lane. The right lanes were for slower vehicles, while the left lanes were for faster and overtaking vehicles.
Ahmed said these slow-moving vehicles disrupt not only his trip but also others on the road, forcing faster drivers to brake or change lanes abruptly, increasing the risk of collisions.
"Especially in Dubai-Abu Dhabi route, when there's a line of cars behind you, a simple mistake could lead to a disaster."
Another driver, Salma M, highlighted the importance of lane discipline and keeping slower traffic in the right-most lanes. 'If you're driving slow, you can stay on the far right lane,' she said. 'There's no need to be in the leftmost lane where faster cars want to overtake. You never know what the person behind you is dealing with or why they might be driving fast, so it's safer to give them space."
Salma also noted that some drivers might be rushing due to emergencies or time constraints, so blocking the fast lane can cause serious safety issues.
Driving instructor Abdullah Mahor explained why lane discipline is important for road safety: 'Fast lanes are intended for overtaking and maintaining higher speeds. When slower vehicles remain in these lanes, it forces others to brake suddenly or change lanes unexpectedly, which increases the chance of accidents."
Mahor stressed the need for drivers to understand the role of each lane. 'Drivers should stay aware of their surroundings and respect lane rules. This helps traffic flow smoothly and reduces road rage incidents and collisions."
Dubai Police's reminder serves to highlight a common issue on UAE roads, where slow driving in fast lanes continues to frustrate many drivers and create potential hazards. Authorities encourage motorists to observe proper lane usage and maintain speeds appropriate to the lane they are in.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Gulf Business
3 hours ago
- Gulf Business
Dubai drivers alert: Here's how to deduct 4 black points easily
Image credit: RTA _ X/Twitter As schools across the UAE prepare to reopen after the summer break, the Read- The campaign, launched in coordination with police departments nationwide, aims to promote safe driving habits and reduce road accidents on one of the busiest days on UAE roads. The announcement was made on the Ministry's official X (formerly Twitter) account. — وزارة الداخلية (@moiuae) In a move to encourage compliance, the ministry has introduced a special incentive: motorists who pledge to drive safely on August 25 and successfully avoid traffic violations on that day will receive a deduction of four black points from their driving licence. To be eligible, drivers must visit the official MOI website and submit a pledge form before the day. If no violations are recorded, the black point deduction will be processed automatically by September 15, with no need to visit service centres. This streamlined, fully digital reward system reinforces the ministry's commitment to both safety and convenience. AI surveillance and penalties in Dubai Meanwhile, earlier this year, Dubai Police provided a comprehensive update on traffic violations captured by AI-enabled smart radars and technical surveillance systems. The announcement was made in March 2025 by the General Department of Traffic, highlighting the rising role of AI in enforcing road laws, The violations carry heavy penalties, both financial and in black points, for reckless or careless driving. For example: Exceeding the speed limit by more than 80 km/h incurs a fine of Dhs3,000, 60-day vehicle impoundment, and 23 black points. Exceeding by over 60 km/h results in a Dhs2,000 fine, 20-day impoundment, and 12 black points. Lower levels of speeding incur smaller fines: Over 50 km/hr: Dhs1,000 Over 40 km/hr: Dhs700 Over 30 km/hr: Dhs600 Over 20 km/hr: Dhs300 Violations that cost you more than money In addition to speeding, Dubai Police listed numerous other offences being closely monitored: Running a red light: Dhs1,000, 30-day impoundment, 12 black points Driving against traffic: Dhs600, 7-day impoundment, 4 black points Using a mobile while driving: Dhs800, 4 black points Not wearing a seatbelt: Dhs400, 4 black points Failing to give way to pedestrians: Dhs500, 6 black points Illegal window tinting: Dhs1,500 Improper lane usage: Light vehicles: Dhs400 Heavy vehicles: Dhs1,500, 12 black points Unsafe vehicle stopping: Dhs1,000, 6 black points Not maintaining safe distance: Dhs400, 4 black points Excessive noise: Dhs2,000, 12 black points Turning in non-designated areas: Dhs500, 4 black points Driving with an expired licence: Dhs500, 4 black points Heavy vehicles entering restricted zones: Dhs1,000, 4 black points Blocking other vehicles: Dhs500 These figures underline the UAE's zero-tolerance stance on dangerous driving and the increasing reliance on technology to keep roads safe. Call to action for motorists With the academic year restarting, roads will see an influx of parents, school buses, and commuters. The Ministry's message is clear: be vigilant, be responsible, and make a conscious effort to avoid accidents, not just to stay penalty-free, but to protect lives. Participating in 'A Day Without Accidents' offers motorists more than just point deductions. It's a symbolic commitment to safer roads, responsible driving, and community well-being. By aligning the campaign with back-to-school season, authorities hope to build long-term driving discipline starting with one important day.
The National
3 hours ago
- The National
UAE's nuclear contribution to electricity, from zero to 23%
As the world records higher temperatures every year, the attempt to switch or reduce the complete energy dependence on fossil fuels has become a priority. Out of all of the options available, nuclear energy stands out. In August 2020, the first unit of the Barakah Nuclear Plant started generating electricity, contributing to 1.1 per cent of the electricity production. In 2024, with three more operating units, the share was 22.9 per cent. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) says 31 countries worldwide operate more than 400 nuclear reactors for electricity generation, and some of those countries rely on them for more than 50 per cent of their electricity production, with France the most reliant. It took the UAE four years to achieve this milestone, a growth rate distinguishable from other countries with a longer history of generating electricity from nuclear energy, such as the US and the UK. Development background The Bakarah Nuclear Plant started life in December 2009, when the Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation awarded a $20 billion bid to the Korea Electric Power Corporation to build the first nuclear power plant in the UAE. The nuclear plant consists of four units equipped with the APR-1400 reactor, one of the most advanced in the world, with a design life of 60 years. Coming into operation, it will prevent the release of 22.4 million tons of carbon emissions every year, equivalent to removing 4.8 million cars from the roads.
Khaleej Times
5 hours ago
- Khaleej Times
Black point reduction: UAE drivers to hit 'reset button' on road habits for ‘Accident-Free Day'
UAE drivers are rushing to register for the Ministry of Interior's 'Accident-Free Day' pledge, which offers the chance to have four black points removed from their traffic records by committing to safe driving on August 25, 2025. The initiative coincides with the first day of the new school year and aims to raise awareness about road safety while reducing traffic violations, especially in school zones where children's safety is a priority. Recommended For You For 29-year-old Ahmed Salim, the campaign comes at a crucial time. 'I already have 12 black points, mostly from speeding fines,' he said. 'Getting four points deducted is a relief. This pledge is a good reminder to be more disciplined and focused on the road. I plan to treat that day as a challenge to keep calm and follow every rule strictly.' Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels. Motorists across the emirates welcomed the initiative 'Everyone who knew me, especially my closest friend, called me to register for the pledge. He told me, 'I hope you learn from this one'.' This campaign is part of a series of traffic safety initiatives launched by the UAE over the past several years. These programmes have focused on encouraging responsible driving behaviour and rewarding those who adhere to traffic laws, helping to foster a culture of safety on the roads. Long-time driver Khaled Mansour, 41, has spent nearly two decades navigating the UAE's roads. As a Jordanian expat who frequently commutes between Abu Dhabi and Al Ain for work, he views the initiative as a positive mental exercise. 'It's a nice challenge to be consciously aware of my driving all day,' he said. 'I'll keep an eye on my speed, avoid distractions like using my phone, and always give way to others. It feels like hitting a reset button on my driving habits.' The initiative aims to reward those who commit to the pledge and adhere to traffic laws and regulations, particularly wearing seat belts, not exceeding speed limits and maintaining a safe distance. Motorists must also respect pedestrian priority and safety, avoid distractions like phone use, and give way to emergency vehicles, ambulances, police, and official convoys. Fatima Ali, a 29-year-old Sharjah resident, hopes the campaign will help her reduce her current six black points. 'I'm motivated to drive more carefully, especially with schools reopening soon,' she said. Fatima admitted that driving can sometimes be distracting, especially with traffic. When she has to wait for long periods, she tends to drive without paying full attention to some road safety rules. The pledge is available online through the Ministry of Interior's official portal. Drivers who successfully complete the day without committing any violations will have their points deducted electronically on September 15, 2025, without needing to visit any service centres. 'Our goal is to create a safer environment for all road users by encouraging adherence to traffic regulations,' said Brigadier Engineer Hussain Ahmed Al Harthi, Chairman of the Federal Traffic Council. 'These campaigns help save lives and protect property by promoting responsible driving across the UAE.' As the new school year approaches, the 'Accident-Free Day' pledge offers drivers both a practical incentive and a timely reminder to prioritise safety on the roads. waad@ Waad Barakat is a Special Correspondent covering security topics, from law enforcement to local courts. With a keen eye for human interest stories, she hopes to blend it all with unique Gen Z-inspired content.
