Daijiworld Media Network – Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi, Oct 29: Abu Dhabi Police have announced a comprehensive framework to manage traffic black points, licence suspensions, and rehabilitation options for motorists, with stricter regulations now in place for drivers under 21 holding probationary licences.
Lieutenant Colonel Saeed Khalfan Al Kaabi, from the Traffic Points Program Section at the Police Follow-up and Aftercare Department, explained the updated framework during the ‘Amn wa Aman’ (Safety and Security) programme broadcast by Abu Dhabi Police and reported by Emarat Al Youm. The initiative aims to strengthen awareness, enhance road discipline, and promote safer driving habits across the emirate.
Understanding the traffic black points system
The UAE’s Federal Traffic Law introduces the black points system to deter unsafe driving. Each violation carries a specific number of points depending on its severity — for example, running a red light adds 12 points, while endangering lives adds 23 points. A maximum of 24 points is allowed within a year, after which the driver’s licence may be suspended or revoked.
These points stay on record for one year and are automatically cleared if no new violations occur. Al Kaabi stressed that the purpose is not punishment but to encourage responsible driving and reduce accident rates.
Stricter measures for probationary drivers under 21
For drivers below 21 holding probationary licences, the law enforces tougher action. Upon reaching 24 points, such drivers must either:
• Accept a six-month licence suspension, or
• Enrol in the Traffic Points Programme by paying AED 2,400 and attending a one-day qualification course.
If they again accumulate 24 points during the probation period, their licence is cancelled entirely, and they are barred from reapplying for one year. Al Kaabi said the move is designed to curb repeated violations and protect public safety.
Rules for Permanent Licence Holders (21 and above)
Motorists aged 21 or above with permanent licences face different penalties. On first reaching 24 points, they can either accept a three-month suspension or undergo the AED 2,400 rehabilitation course. A repeat offence within a year leads to a six-month suspension and compulsory re-attendance of the rehabilitation course.
Rehabilitation and reduction programmes
Abu Dhabi Police have also introduced voluntary courses for drivers who have between 8 and 23 black points, allowing them to reduce their total by eight points. Participants must visit an authorised service centre, register for the course, and pay AED 800.
The programme includes awareness sessions, case studies, and interactive discussions on safe driving.
Two major initiatives are now available:
1. Points reduction programme: For drivers with fewer than 24 points, enabling an eight-point deduction.
2. Licence reinstatement programme: For those whose licences are suspended or revoked, requiring AED 2,400 and completion of an intensive awareness course.
Where and when to register
Drivers can apply at any of the following Abu Dhabi Police centres:
• Traffic Points Programmes Department, Musaffah
• Traffic Points Programme Branch, Al Ain
• Traffic Points Programme Branch, Zayed City (Al Dhafra)
Registration runs from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. A special month-long initiative is also active from October 20 to November 20, 2025, at Mushrif Mall Centre (first floor, Police platform), open daily from 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Motorists can visit the centre to reduce their points or reinstate a suspended licence after paying the respective fees (AED 800 for reduction or AED 2,400 for reinstatement). Attendance is mandatory and conducted in person to ensure full participation in awareness workshops.
A call for shared road safety
Concluding his remarks, Lieutenant Colonel Saeed Khalfan Al Kaabi urged all motorists to act as responsible partners in ensuring road safety. “Safety is everyone’s responsibility,” he said, stressing that the black points system is meant to reform, not penalise.
He called on drivers to follow traffic laws strictly, avoid reckless behaviour, and help create a culture of responsibility and awareness on Abu Dhabi’s roads.