Dubai Police Warn Against Slow Fast-lane Driving

Dangerous Slow Driving in Inner Lanes – Dubai Police Issue Warning

The Dubai police have once again highlighted a traffic rule that many tend to ignore: driving below the minimum speed limit in the fast lane is prohibited. Authorities state that vehicles moving unreasonably slowly not only impede traffic but also pose a significant accident risk.

Why is slow driving in the inner lane problematic?

The inner (left) lane is reserved on UAE roads for vehicles that move faster or intend to overtake. When someone drives below the minimum speed in this lane, it:

disrupts the natural flow of traffic,

forces drivers behind to brake suddenly or change lanes,

increases the likelihood of rear-end collisions or serious accidents.

According to a driver who regularly commutes between Dubai and Abu Dhabi, slow cars often provoke anger in drivers who wish to move faster. These overly slow vehicles not only hinder the vehicles directly behind them but can also delay entire rows of vehicles, especially on busy major roads.

What does the law say?

According to federal traffic law, driving below the minimum allowed speed in the fast lane incurs a fine of 400 dirhams. Additionally, it is considered an offense if a vehicle does not give way to faster-moving vehicles behind.

Traffic rules are clearly set:

right lanes are designated for slower vehicles,

left lanes are solely for overtaking or faster travel.

Statistics Highlight the Reality

According to the Ministry of Interior’s data, over 300,000 drivers were fined on UAE roads for slow driving in 2023. Statistics suggest these cases have contributed to numerous accidents, highlighting that this rule violation is not just an inconvenience but a serious traffic safety issue.

Why is lane discipline important?

Proper use of traffic lanes enhances road safety and efficiency. The Dubai police emphasize that following lane discipline is not just about respect for fellow drivers but is also in our collective interest to prevent accidents.

Experts say unnecessary staying in the fast lane can lead to frustration, aggressive behavior, and abrupt maneuvers. These impulsive reactions can easily lead to crashes – particularly when high-speed vehicles are involved.

What do authorities advise?

The Dubai police and traffic safety experts advise the following:

Always adhere to lane usage rules: use the far left lane only if you intend to overtake or travel at a higher speed.

Be mindful of traffic behind you: if someone wishes to go faster, let them pass.

Maintain the minimum speed limit, especially on highways and major roads.

Slower vehicles should use the right lanes and not obstruct faster-moving vehicles.

Summary

The warning from the Dubai police is no coincidence: adhering to the minimum speed limit in the fast lane is a fundamental traffic rule that all drivers must take seriously. Violating this rule can result not only in fines but also in loss of lives if a sudden maneuver or abrupt braking turns fatal.

(Source of the article: Dubai Police statement.)