Abu Dhabi police warn motorists that stopping in the middle of the road is a traffic offence that can result in a fine of Dh1,000 and six black points.
Abu Dhabi Police have issued a warning against stopping in the middle of the road without a valid reason, imposing a Dh1,000 fine and six black points on offending motorists. Additionally, drivers causing traffic obstruction may face an extra Dh500 fine. The warning aims to reduce accidents and traffic congestion caused by sudden stops. Motorists involved in minor accidents are advised to move to the nearest safe spot and use official apps to report incidents. Emergency stops should be made on the right shoulder with hazard signals activated. The campaign emphasizes safe driving practices to protect all road users.
Abu Dhabi Police have recently issued a strict warning to motorists that stopping in the middle of the road is a traffic offence, punishable by a Dh1,000 fine and six black points on the driver’s license. This move is part of the government’s ongoing road safety drive aiming to reduce serious accidents and fatalities caused by unsafe driving behavior.
Warning Issued on 30 August?
The official warning was disseminated on August 30, 2025, by the Directorate of Traffic and Security Patrols of Abu Dhabi Police. Authorities made this announcement through traditional media, social media, and direct communications, as part of their comprehensive “Safe Road” campaign.
Details of the Offence and Penalties
Under Article 56 of the UAE traffic code, any driver stopping in the middle of a road without valid justification faces a fine of Dh1,000 and accrues six black points on their driving record. Additionally, obstruction caused by such behavior may lead to a further Dh500 fine under Article 98 for impeding traffic flow. These penalties are intended to deter unsafe practices and encourage proper accident-response procedures.
Reason Behind the Warning
Abu Dhabi Police officials have highlighted that sudden stops in the middle of the road can catch other drivers off guard, leading to dangerous rear-end collisions, multi-vehicle pile-ups, and sometimes fatal injuries. Even in cases of minor accidents or vehicle malfunctions, stopping amidst traffic elevates risk for all road users.
Colonel Mahmoud Youssef Al-Balushi, Directorate of Traffic and Security Patrol in Abu Dhabi Police, emphasized that motorists should always move promptly to the nearest safe exit or shoulder when stopping is unavoidable, and activate hazard lights to warn others. The goal is to maintain traffic flow and maximize safety.
Procedures for Accidents or Emergencies
- Move vehicles involved in minor accidents or breakdowns to the nearest safe area away from traffic lanes.
- Use the right shoulder only in emergency cases, and always signal with hazard lights.
- When possible, use official apps or hotlines to report incidents and request roadside assistance.
- Maintain attentiveness, adhere to speed limits, and keep a safe following distance at all times to prevent mishaps.
Video Sources Illustrating Violations
Abu Dhabi Police have released several video clips demonstrating the consequences of stopping irresponsibly on highways:
- A widely shared campaign video shows a minivan stopping suddenly, with its occupants exiting directly into active lanes. The footage then captures a speeding car colliding with the van, leading to a dangerous situation and lane-blocking.
- Such video evidence is distributed via Abu Dhabi Police’s official social media channels and safety awareness platforms to educate and warn the public.
Conclusion
The Dh1,000 fine and six black points reflect the seriousness with which Abu Dhabi authorities view stopping in the middle of the road. By following approved procedures during emergencies, motorists can help keep roads safer for everyone and avoid costly penalties and license suspensions.
