Penalty for drinking and driving in Dubai

Federal Law No. 21 of 1995 "Concerning traffic" as amended in the law, which governs traffic and regulates vehicles. The law also stipulates the sanctions for traffic crimes and procedures related thereto. It's strictly prohibited for the driver of any vehicle to drive under the influence of an alcoholic or narcotic substance, even if it's legal.

According to UAE legal practice, there is zero tolerance to drink while driving. By virtue of the Article No. 10.6 of the Traffic Law driver of any vehicle shall abstain from driving under the effect of the alcoholic or narcotic substance.

Punishment in the UAE: 

The driver who violates this requirement shall be the subject of criminal sanctions - imprisonment and/or a minimum fine of twenty-five thousand Dhs (AED 25,000) as per Article No. 49.6 of the Traffic Law. The penalty may be imposed for both driving drunk and under the influence of alcohol or narcotic substances. The person driving a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or any other narcotic may be arrested (refer to the Article No. 59.3 of the Law).

Also, the court may impose additional measures: to take away the driving license for a specific period, not less than three months and not more than two years and deprive the driver of the right to obtain a new license for a future period after the expiry date.