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Drunk driving, also known as Driving Under the Influence (DUI), is strictly prohibited in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. The country is known for its stringent laws and zero-tolerance policy towards driving under the influence of alcohol. The UAE follows Sharia law, under which consumption, possession, and sale of alcohol to Muslims is prohibited and non-Muslims require a license to consume alcohol.
Legal complications arising out of DUI charges can lead to severe penalties such as heavy fines, imprisonment, deportation, or even a criminal record. Therefore, you might need a lawyer who specializes in DUI cases to guide and represent you. They can help you understand the scope of your case, possible outcomes, and legal alternatives that may be available to you. A lawyer can provide you the right advice to navigate through these legal complications.
As per UAE’s federal traffic law, driving under the influence of alcohol is a crime. DUI violations can lead to penalties such as 23 black points on the driving license, confiscation of the vehicle for 60 days, and a fine of up to 20,000 AED. Perpetrators can also be sentenced to jail time and, in severe cases, the court may decide to deport the convict. The exact sentence depends on various factors such as the circumstances surrounding the incident, previous DUI charges, and the blood alcohol content of the offender at the time of arrest.
The UAE operates a zero-tolerance policy and as such, there is no legal blood-alcohol limit. Any evidence of consuming alcohol and getting behind the wheel can lead to a prosecution.
Deportation is usually applied to repeat offenders or those involved in severe cases. However, the power of decision lies solely with the courts.
Refusing to take a breathalyzer test is taken as an admission of guilt and can result in penalties equivalent to those for a DUI offence.
No, the laws are equally applicable to residents, tourists, and all persons driving within the UAE irrespective of nationality or visitor status.
If you’re involved in an accident while under the influence, the penalties generally become more severe, especially if there are injuries or property damage. This could include longer jail terms and higher fines.
You can consult the UAE’s Federal Traffic Law for more detailed insights on DUI and related penalties. The Abu Dhabi Police GHQ is a governmental body involved in maintaining traffic law compliance in Abu Dhabi.
If you need legal assistance with a DUI issue in Abu Dhabi, immediately contact a lawyer with expertise in UAE traffic laws. Seek an initial consultation, comprehend your charges and possible outcomes, and ensure that you are fully aware of your rights throughout the proceedings.
