Reported: 5 November 2026
Dubai, 4 November 2026: UAE executive regulations for the Federal Traffic Law stress that drivers must not operate vehicles while fatigued or exhausted in a way that affects safe control and decision-making.
As outlined in the report, the rules prohibit driving when fatigue or exhaustion could impair a driver’s ability to drive safely, and they set a limit of no more than nine hours of driving within any 24-hour period (subject to possible adjustment by the Federal Traffic Council).
The report links the tightening of the rules to accident trends attributed to drowsiness, falling asleep and exhaustion, particularly during long overland travel without rest.
It also highlights broader obligations for safe driving, including requirements not to be distracted by using mobile phones or other electronic devices where prohibited, and to comply with seat-belt rules for drivers and passengers in front and back seats.
For drivers who feel signs of fatigue, the report says the regulations and safety messaging emphasise stopping, resting and resuming only when refreshed. It also refers to the availability of fully equipped rest areas along highways to support breaks and reduce the risk of exhaustion.
Source: Emirates247.