Pedestrian safety rules in Dubai
The UAE government takes proactive steps to ensure the safety of all residents and visitors. Along with well-defined regulations for motorists to ensure road safety, there are pedestrian safety rules in Dubai. Disregarding pedestrian traffic rules and regulations in Dubai for even a brief moment in busy, congested areas can increase the risk of accidents.
PEDESTRIAN SAFETY RULES IN DUBAI
Rules regarding road safety, signs and signals are outlined by the government to reduce the risk of accidents. Detailed data analysis and scientific research are conducted before any changes are suggested. The idea is to minimise the risks for both drivers and pedestrians and make the city safer.
Here is a look at the rules and regulations about pedestrian safety in Dubai.
PEDESTRIAN TRAFFIC RULES AND REGULATIONS IN DUBAI
There are some rules that pedestrians have to follow while walking on the roads of Dubai.
SAFE CROSSING AREAS
Accidents generally occur when pedestrians cross the road carelessly and ignore the designated crosswalks or intersections. Some people risk their lives by jaywalking in Dubai, which is a punishable offence with a fine of AED 400. There are designated crossing points such as pedestrian bridges, underpasses, zebra crossings etc. which should be used at all times. You have to wait for the pedestrian signal light to turn green at crossings before moving forward.
Motorists recognise the crossing points and reduce the vehicle speed, hence chances of an accident are reduced significantly.
USE SIDEWALKS
Using the sidewalks even when the traffic is light can save you from unfortunate incidents. If there is no sidewalk, one should always walk on the left side of the road. You should always watch for cars entering or exiting driveways or backing up in parking lots. Stop and make sure it is safe to move before crossing the street.
AVOID USING THE MOBILE PHONE
‘Eyes on the road at all times’ is the golden rule one has to follow. This also means no use of mobile phones. Even if you are using earphones, there are chances that you could be distracted. So make sure to avoid using your phone and even if you are listening to music, reduce the volume so you can be warned of any incoming traffic.
CHILD SAFETY
As an adult, it is your responsibility to ensure the safety of any accompanying child. Always hold their hand firmly, so you can lead them or stop them from getting into harm’s way.
PARKING SPACES
Parking spaces can be particularly dangerous, given that a driver’s view can be obstructed. Hence, when moving around in a parking lot, it’s important to be extra vigilant.
RULES FOR MOTORISTS PERTAINING TO PEDESTRIAN CROSSINGS
ZEBRA CROSSING
If any motorist fails to give way to pedestrians on a zebra crossing, the fine is AED 500. Offenders will also receive six black points for such instances. There are some zebra crossings in Dubai without the general traffic signal as well. So as a driver, you have to be careful and follow the rules at designated pedestrian crossings.
Recently, Dubai Police has installed solar-powered smart devices at designated road crossing spots. These smart sensors have been installed on both sides of the roads. Hence, when any pedestrian crosses the road, a red indicator lights up, which means all motorists have to give way. Any violation is recorded and sent to the Dubai Police’s server and will lead to a fine.
TRAFFIC SIGNAL
Jumping a traffic signal could get you a fine of AED 1,000 and 4 black points. Often just after the traffic signal, there is a zebra crossing. Hence, being reckless might cause a serious accident. You must always slow down and be prepared to apply brakes when entering a crosswalk as pedestrians can move into your path.
MOBILE USAGE
It can be tempting to peek into your mobile phone while driving. But, this can divert your attention and lead to extreme consequences. Even when your vehicle is not moving at a signal, it is best not to use your mobile. In fact, it is illegal to use a mobile while you drive. It leads to a fine of AED 800 and 4 black points.
CHILD ZONES
It’s mandatory to slow down when a school, a playground and other such spots are close by. You also need to lower speeds in a neighbourhood that has parks and walkways. Kids are energetic and require constant supervision when playing and walking near traffic, so drivers have to be responsible.
FAQS ABOUT PEDESTRIAN SAFETY RULES IN DUBAI
WHAT IS THE FINE FOR JAYWALKING IN DUBAI?
As discussed, jaywalking in Dubai can result in a fine of AED 400.
HOW MUCH IS THE FINE FOR PEDESTRIAN CROSSING IN DUBAI?
You will have to pay a fine of AED 400 for crossing the road in a dangerous and illegal manner.
WHICH AUTHORITY OVERSEES PEDESTRIAN CROSSING RULES IN DUBAI?
The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is the body that oversees pedestrian crossing rules in Dubai.
HOW TO PAY PEDESTRIAN CROSSING FINE IN DUBAI?
You can pay pedestrian crossing fine in Dubai via the RTA, the Dubai Police and DubaiNow website. Dubai pedestrian crossing fine can also be paid by the apps of aforementioned government services.
HOW TO PAY PEDESTRIAN FINE IN DUBAI?
Besides paying online, you can pay Dubai pedestrian fines at Dubai Police Stations. There are multiple ways for pedestrian crossing fine payment in Dubai.
IS DUBAI PEDESTRIAN FRIENDLY?
Yes, most areas are pedestrian friendly with dedicated under and overpasses for pedestrians. They also have the right of way in the emirate.
Pedestrian safety in Dubai is a priority for the government. However, the government can only enforce laws. Eventually, the general public has to be cautious in their approach and follow all the rules. Before you start driving, it is your duty to be aware of all the updated traffic laws in Dubai.
Pedestrian crossing in Dubai has become safer because the government has taken a number of measures to create awareness about rules and regulations. Plus, pedestrian road crossing fine in Dubai has been enforced strictly.
Always follow the speed limit and never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. As a parent or teacher, you need to teach safety tips for crossing the street and things to remember when walking with children. Dubai public transport fines are also imposed to protect people.
