Motorists, take note of these new traffic laws

> Driving in residential areas Vehicles shall not be driven in residential areas and around educational institutions and hospitals in such a way that it disturbs or endangers the lives of others. The speed prescribed in the residential areas shall not be more than 40km/h. > Five-metre safety rule Drivers of all vehicles must stop at a minimum distance of five metres when public transport vehicles or schoolbuses stop at authorised places to let passengers or students embark and disembark > Renewal of licence The new driving licences issued for the first time will be valid for two years while the renewed licences shall be valid for 10 years for citizens and five years for expatriates > Granting driver’s licence For the granting or renewal of driving licences, the age requirement shall be met. Applicants may not have diseases that impede or affect his ability to drive as certified by competent health authorities. He/she should pass the driving test conducted by the licensing authority and must pay the specified fees > Unlicensed motorised vehicles It is not permitted to drive a motorised two- or three-wheelers unless they are registered and licensed by the licensing authority. No person may drive a motorised vehicle without obtaining a driving licence > Who are allowed to sit in the front? The driver shall allow a child over the age of 10 or 145cm length to sit in the front seats of the vehicle and provide protective seats for children aged four years or less. This prohibition shall not be effective when there is a health barrier certified by the competent medical authority > Traffic routes for buses The licensing authority is to coordinate with the authority concerned to regulate the transport in a particular emirate to allocate a bus route and determine the routes and times assigned for its operation. Other vehicles may not pass on the tracks designated for such buses, except civil defence, ambulance, rescue and police vehicles in the course of duty.