The UAE has introduced a new Federal Traffic Law imposing stricter penalties for motorists convicted of serious offences, including longer licence suspensions and tougher enforcement measures.

Under the updated law, courts can suspend a driver’s licence for up to three years for crimes such as driving under the influence, reckless driving, or endangering others.

Motorists found driving with a suspended licence face up to three months in jail, a minimum fine of Dh10,000, or both.

The law also allows courts to deny licence renewal for up to two years after suspension or prevent unlicensed individuals from applying for a licence for three years. Any licence obtained in violation of these restrictions will be considered void.

Drivers disqualified from obtaining a licence may apply to lift the restriction six months after conviction.

Additionally, traffic officers are empowered to arrest offenders involved in severe incidents, including causing death or injury, refusing to show identification, or attempting to flee police.

Authorities said the reforms reinforce the UAE’s ongoing efforts to improve road safety, accountability, and public protection.

Dubai has expanded its Golden Visa programme, opening the long-term residency permit to a new group of eligible applicants. The Golden Visa allows holders to live, work, and study in the UAE for up to 10 years without the need for a sponsor.

Under a new agreement between the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs Dubai (GDRFA) and the Endowments and Minors Affairs Foundation (Awqaf), Waqf (Islamic endowment) donors can now qualify for a Golden Visa as financial supporters of humanitarian work.

The new category is open to both residents and non-residents. Eligible donors will be nominated by Awqaf, and GDRFA Dubai will issue residency permits based on approved recommendations. A joint committee will oversee the process to ensure the new rules achieve their intended social objectives.

Who Else Qualifies for a Golden Visa?
Across the UAE, golden visas are already available to investors, entrepreneurs, scientists, professionals, and outstanding students. Dubai has recently broadened eligibility to include teachers, content creators, gaming professionals, and nurses.

Additionally, Golden Visa holders now enjoy the same emergency consular benefits as Emirati nationals when travelling abroad, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

This latest move reflects Dubai’s commitment to recognising social contributions and supporting long-term residents who make an impact on the community.

Dubai Police have issued a strong warning to parents after a new social media challenge encouraging children to set “evil dolls” on fire began circulating online. The viral trend, known as the “Burning Evil Dolls Challenge”, mimics scenes from horror movies — but police say it can easily spiral into real-life danger.

The challenge, which urges children to burn dolls both indoors and outdoors, has been flagged as highly hazardous. Many of these toys are made from flammable materials such as plastic and synthetic fabrics that can quickly ignite and release toxic fumes, posing a serious fire and health risk.

Authorities have cautioned that such acts could lead to fires, burns, injuries, or even fatalities, particularly when attempted without supervision.

Dubai Police stressed the importance of parental vigilance, urging families to keep a close eye on their children’s online activities. Parents are encouraged to discuss the dangers of imitating unsafe internet stunts, especially those designed purely to attract views and engagement.

The police also reminded the public that sharing, reposting, or promoting content that encourages harmful or illegal activities is a punishable offence under UAE law. Such actions may result in prosecution for endangering lives or property.

As part of Cybersecurity Awareness Month, Dubai Police are ramping up digital safety campaigns to help parents and young users spot and report harmful online content. The force encouraged residents to report any such videos or posts through official police channels or social media platforms.

Their message is clear: Don’t copy, report. Online trends can entertain, but when they turn dangerous, they must be stopped before they cause harm.