17 New Abu Dhabi Rules and Fines to Know in 2025
- Yes Pinoy Pro
- 3 days ago
- 4 min read
By Yes Pinoy PRO | October 27, 2025
Abu Dhabi welcomed 2025 with a modernized set of laws aimed at keeping the capital cleaner, greener, and more disciplined — with clear reminders that safety and civic order come first.
From new speed limits to stricter waste management rules, the emirate’s latest regulations are part of its mission to build a smarter, safer, and more sustainable city for residents and visitors alike.
Here’s a rundown of what’s new this year — and what you’ll want to avoid doing if you’d rather not part with your hard-earned dirhams.
1. Variable Speed Limits on Key Roads
Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Street now operates with a variable speed limit system. Introduced by Abu Dhabi Mobility, it allows the speed limit to change depending on road and weather conditions — meaning you’ll need to stay alert to the updated electronic signs before you hit the gas.
2. Dh50,000 Fine for Beating the Red Light
Running a red light now carries some of the toughest penalties in the country:
Dh50,000 fine
30-day vehicle impoundment
12 black points
Car auctioned after 3 months if unclaimed
If the violation causes a fatal accident, jail time applies. Moral of the story? Amber means slow down — not speed up.
3. Hit-and-Run Incidents Could Cost You Dh100,000
If you’re involved in an accident, you now have three hours to report it.
Failure to do so may result in:
Up to one year in jail
Fines ranging from Dh50,000 to Dh100,000
You’ll also need an official repair permit before fixing your car. Only medical emergencies or poor signal zones are considered valid excuses.
4. Pay Early, Save More
Drivers who settle their fines early can now enjoy big savings:
35% discount if paid within 60 days
25% discount if paid within a year
Payment can be done digitally or in installments — no queues required.
5. Appeal Certain Fines via TAMM
Got fined for waste disposal or property violations? You can now appeal through the TAMM app within 7 days — free of charge. But if inspectors find your “fix” isn’t real, expect your fine to double.
6. No More Unauthorized Flyers
Posting ads or sticking flyers on cars, walls, or lampposts without approval is now illegal.
Penalties:
Dh1,000 for first offence
Dh2,000 for second
Dh4,000 for repeat offences
Before promoting your event, secure a permit — or face the fine.
7. Rooftop Satellite Clutter Fines
Improper satellite dish installations are now penalized.
Fines range from Dh1,000 to Dh4,000 for repeat offences.
The rule aims to improve building safety and aesthetics — so no more DIY dish setups on balconies.
8. Protect Native Trees or Pay Dh10,000
Cutting or damaging Al Ghaf, Al Samar, or Al Sidr trees now carries a Dh10,000 fine. These protected species are part of the UAE’s heritage and biodiversity efforts — so pruning without approval is a pricey mistake.
9. Blocking Staircases Now Costs Dh10,000
Storing items or blocking stairwells in buildings violates Civil Defence rules.
Such obstructions can delay emergency evacuations — and now, they’ll cost you up to Dh10,000 per offence.
10. Littering Fines Get Stricter
Throwing garbage, cigarette butts, or food waste in public can now cost:
Dh500 for the first offence
Dh1,000 for the second
Dh2,000 for repeat violations
Improper dumping of general waste? That’s up to Dh4,000.
11. Don’t Block the Road After a Minor Accident
Drivers must move vehicles to the side after minor collisions. Failing to do so will result in a Dh1,000 fine and 6 black points.
Use the Saed app to report the incident within minutes — no need to call patrols for minor scrapes.
12. Minimum Speed Limit Removed on E311
Good news for cautious drivers: the 120km/h minimum speed rule on Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Road has been scrapped.
The goal is to make the highway safer and more accessible, especially for heavy vehicles.
13. Dh1,000 Fine for Stopping in the Road
Unnecessary stops in traffic now carry a Dh1,000 fine and 6 black points.
If your stop causes obstruction, add another Dh500. Always pull over safely instead of braking abruptly.
14. Speed Limits Reduced on Two Major Roads
Speed reductions now apply to:
Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed International Road (E11): 160 → 140 km/h
Abu Dhabi–Sweihan Road (E20): 120 → 100 km/h
These changes aim to reduce high-speed accidents and improve driver safety.
15. Laundry on Balconies Now Banned
Drying clothes or rugs on balconies facing public roads is prohibited.
Fines apply as follows:
Dh500 for first offence
Dh1,000 for second
Dh2,000 for third
It’s all part of maintaining the city’s clean and polished image.
16. New Traffic Law Updates
Teenagers can now obtain a driving licence at 17, with proper medical and driving tests.
However, tougher penalties now apply for:
Hit-and-run accidents
Driving under the influence
Unlicensed driving
Fines can reach Dh100,000, and jail time applies for serious cases.
17. Fines for Improper Liquid Waste Disposal
Dumping wastewater in public areas or allowing AC drainage onto sidewalks will now cost:
Dh1,000 (first offence)
Dh2,000 (second)
Dh4,000 (repeated)
The move helps keep Abu Dhabi clean, safe, and free from unpleasant roadside puddles.
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Final Word
Abu Dhabi’s 2025 rulebook is clear: safety, order, and sustainability come first. Whether you’re driving, promoting, gardening, or simply living your day-to-day, the message stays the same — respect the law, protect the city, and you’ll never pay a dirham more than you should.
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