Dubai : Motorists in the UAE are being warned to switch on their vehicle headlights after sunset, or face heavy penalties. Authorities have stressed that using headlights during nighttime is not just a matter of safety, but a legal requirement under UAE traffic laws.
Drivers who fail to turn on headlights between sunset and sunrise, or during low visibility conditions such as heavy rain or fog, may face strict consequences. The penalty for driving without headlights at night is a fine of AED 500 and four black points on the driver’s license.If a vehicle has faulty or non-functioning headlights, the fine is slightly reduced to AED 400, but the driver will incur six black points. Authorities have launched strict enforcement campaigns across the country to curb such violations.
“Driving without headlights not only endangers the driver but also poses a serious risk to other road users,” officials stated. “Proper lighting enhances visibility and significantly reduces the risk of accidents, especially in poorly lit or dark areas.”The misuse of high beam lights is also under scrutiny. While high beams help improve long-distance visibility, improper use can blind oncoming drivers and create hazardous driving conditions.According to Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) Light Motor Vehicle Handbook, high beam lights should only be used in two specific scenarios:
On Unlit Highways: High beams may be used on highways without street lighting to improve visibility. However, they must be turned off when approaching a well-lit area or another vehicle.
Low Visibility Conditions: In dark or unclear driving conditions where visibility is significantly reduced, high beams may be used to drive safely.Drivers are advised to switch to low beams when another vehicle approaches, as high beams can obstruct the vision of other motorists.Authorities continue to remind the public that following these rules is crucial for ensuring road safety and avoiding penalties.
