Dubai's Harsh Penalties for Drugged Driving

Dubai's Transportation Rules Harshly Penalize Drugged Driving

Dubai authorities have once again demonstrated their zero-tolerance policy towards traffic violations, particularly in severe incidents where a driver under the influence of drugs or mind-altering substances endangers others. In a recent case, a driver was not only fined 10,000 dirhams but also had their license revoked for three months and was banned from transferring money on behalf of others for two years, even through intermediaries, without prior approval from the UAE Central Bank. This case highlights the complex consequences of breaking the rules in Dubai.

Summary of the Case

The incident took place in February in the Al Qusais district, where police received a report of a vehicle accident. Officers arriving on the scene discovered that a car had crashed into a beauty salon, damaging five other properly parked vehicles. The driver was disoriented, speaking rapidly and incoherently, but there was no smell of alcohol detected. Suspicion immediately arose that other mind-altering substances might be involved.

The man was immediately arrested, and samples were sent to a forensic laboratory. Tests revealed that the man had methamphetamine, amphetamine, and pregabalin in his system — substances listed in the UAE's federal law as prohibited psychotropic substances.

The Court's Verdict

The Dubai Misdemeanours and Violations Court clearly held the driver accountable for the incident. The decision emphasized that the man did not maintain a safe following distance, ignored traffic conditions, and drove under the influence of psychotropic substances — collectively leading to the accident, damage to private and public property, and endangerment of public safety.

The verdict imposed not only a financial penalty but also significant long-term consequences: a three-month suspension of the driver's license and a two-year prohibition on conducting financial transactions on behalf of others, either directly or through intermediaries — only with the approval of the Central Bank and Ministry of Interior in the future.

Why Are Dubai's Rules So Strict?

Dubai and the entire UAE place a strong emphasis on preventing traffic accidents and maintaining social order. Drug use, particularly while driving, poses significant risks not only to the driver but also to passengers, pedestrians, and other motorists. The ruling sets a precedent and serves as a warning to all road users that public safety is not to be taken lightly.

Authorities also stress that the consequences of drug use extend beyond road accidents: they can significantly impact financial transactions, job opportunities, visa status, and even the retention of residency permits.

Drug Regulations in the UAE

The UAE strictly regulates the possession, use, and trafficking of drugs. Under Federal Law 14, all psychotropic substances — including pregabalin, often used as medication — can only be used with a prescription and under the supervision of specific medical institutions.

Methamphetamine and amphetamine are particularly dangerous substances, and even small amounts can have serious consequences. Those who use these drugs while driving endanger not only their lives but also others'.

The Broader Implications of Accidents

The beauty center involved and the owners of the five damaged vehicles suffered significant material losses. Beyond repair costs, business revenue losses, insurance procedures, and potential lawsuits can have long-lasting consequences.

Police and judicial authorities emphasize that in such cases, crimes can be pursued not only through criminal but also civil law, especially if they disrupt a company's operations.

What Can We Learn from the Case?

This case clearly illustrates the stringent traffic regulations in Dubai, particularly when drug use is involved. The consequences manifest not only in the form of fines but can also severely restrict personal and financial freedom.

The court's decision is also a warning: adherence to traffic discipline is not an optional choice but a fundamental requirement. Driving is a responsibility, and those who fail to act accordingly endanger not only their lives but others’ — and UAE authorities take this seriously.

(Source of the article: Dubai Court of Misdemeanours and Violations press release.)