In the UAE, drivers must know how many passengers can legally ride in private cars. The country has strict traffic rules to keep everyone safe on the roads. The number of passengers allowed depends on the type of vehicle and how many seats it has. Following these rules helps drivers stay within the law and ensures the safety of everyone in the car.
In this article, we will look at the specific limits for passengers, what happens if you exceed them, and other important things drivers should know when driving in the UAE.
Driver’s License and Passenger Limits: An Important Distinction
While the number of passengers a vehicle can hold sets a fundamental limit, your driver’s license can also affect how many people you can transport. Here’s what you need to know:
1. Unrestricted License
With this license type, you can carry as many passengers as your vehicle can safely fit as long as everyone has a seat belt.
2. Standard License
This is the most common type of license in the UAE. It usually limits you to carrying up to five passengers, not counting the driver.
Understanding Vehicle Capacity
In the UAE, most cars are made to hold either five or seven people. To find out how many passengers your car can carry, check the car’s manual or the information from the manufacturer. Remember, exceeding the allowed number of passengers is against the law and can result in a fine.
Specific for Different Vehicle Types
Here are simpler terms for those vehicle categories:
- Sedans and Hatchbacks: Small cars
- SUVs and Crossovers: Sporty big cars
- Minivans and MPVs: Family vans
- Pick-up Trucks: Trucks with open backs
- Buses and Coaches: Large buses
- Electric and Hybrid Vehicles: Cars that run on electricity or a mix of gas and electricity
- Luxury SUVs: Fancy big cars
1. Sedans and Hatchbacks
Most sedans and hatchbacks in the UAE are made to hold a maximum of five people, including the driver. This limit is based on how many seat belts are in the car.
| Vehicle Type | Maximum Passengers (including driver) |
| Sedan | 5 |
| Hatchback | 5 |
2. SUVs and Crossovers
SUVs and crossovers usually have more space and can carry more passengers. Depending on the model, they can hold between 5 and 8 people.
| SUV/Crossover | Maximum Passengers |
| 5-seater | 5 |
| 7-seater | 7 |
| 8-seater | 8 |
3. Minivans and MPVs
Minivans and Multi-Purpose Vehicles (MPVs) are built for larger groups. They can typically fit between 7 and 9 passengers, including the driver.
| Minivan/MPV Type | Maximum Passengers (including driver) |
| Standard | 7-8 |
| Extended | 9 |
4. Pick-up Trucks
Pick-up trucks have special rules for how many passengers they can carry, as they are mainly meant for carrying cargo. In the UAE, people usually cannot ride in the open cargo area of pick-up trucks.
| Pick-up Truck Type | Maximum Passengers (including driver) |
| Single Cab | 2-3 |
| Double Cab | 5 |
5. Buses and Coaches
Buses and coaches can carry different numbers of passengers based on their size and purpose. These vehicles have specific rules and may need special permits to operate.
| Bus/Coach Type | Maximum Passengers (including driver) |
| Minibus | 15-30 |
| Standard Bus | 30-50 |
| Large Coach | 50-70 |
6. Electric and Hybrid Vehicles
Electric and hybrid cars have the same passenger limits as regular cars based on size and design. The number of passengers depends on the available seat belts.
7. Luxury SUVs
Some luxury SUVs can carry up to 8 passengers. However, these vehicles mustn’t exceed the manufacturer’s recommended capacity.
Read More: Car Passenger Limits UAE
Exceptions and Exemptions
The rules about passenger limits in vehicles in the UAE primarily apply to private cars, but there are some exceptions. For instance, individuals can modify their vehicles to accommodate more passengers by adding special seating, but they must obtain approval from the relevant authorities, such as the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), before making these changes.
Taxis also have different regulations. When riding in a taxi, all passengers must wear their seat belts if one is available in the back seat. However, if a seat belt is installed, the driver is not required to have one. The RTA ensures that these safety measures are enforced for the well-being of all passengers.
Impairment Consequences on Passenger Limits
Riding with more passengers than allowed in the UAE can lead to serious legal problems. Here’s what could happen if you don’t follow the rules:
1. Legal Issues
Having too many passengers is against UAE traffic laws. This can result in fines and points added to your driving license. Your license could be suspended or taken away if you get too many points. In some cases, you might even have to go to court. You could face larger fines or even jail time, depending on how serious the violation is.
2. Insurance Effects
Going over the passenger limit can also affect your insurance. If you have an accident with too many passengers, the insurance company may investigate your claim and deny it. Even if they do pay a claim, breaking the law could lower the amount you receive, leaving you to cover the extra costs yourself.
Fines for Breaking Passenger Capacity Limits
Not following the UAE passenger limits rules can lead to hefty fines. Here’s a breakdown of the possible penalties for breaking these laws:
1. Over-Carrying Passengers
If you transport more passengers than allowed, you could be fined up to AED 3,00.
Unfastened Seatbelt
It’s important to wear a seatbelt. If you or a passenger don’t wear one, you could face a fine of AED 400 and get four black points on your driving record.
2. Driving without Valid Documents
If you drive without the necessary documents, you could receive a fine of AED 500 and get four black points on your record.
3. Disregarding Traffic Regulations
Serious traffic violations can lead to a fine of AED 1,000 and 12 black points. Additionally, your car may be impounded for 30 days.
4. Running a Business Without a Permit
If you transport passengers for money without a proper permit, you could face a fine of AED 3,000, receive 24 black points, and possibly face legal action.
These fines are meant to help keep the roads safe and ensure that everyone follows the laws in the UAE.
Note: In the UAE, knowing the legal limits for passengers in private cars is crucial for all drivers. These rules help maintain road safety and compliance with traffic laws. The allowed number of passengers varies based on the vehicle type, and adhering to these limits ensures the safety of everyone in the car.
For expatriates living in Dubai, having a valid driving license is essential. If you hold a foreign license and wish to avoid fines, consider translating your license. Q Links Translation Company offers Driving License Translation in Dubai, helping you navigate the legal requirements smoothly.
Additional Considerations
Here is an additional consideration.
1. COVID-19 Regulations
Because of health guidelines related to COVID-19, there may be special rules about how many passengers can be in a car in the UAE. These rules can change based on the current health situation. It’s important to check for any restrictions that might limit the number of people in a vehicle to help keep everyone safe.
Common Questions About Passenger Limits in the UAE
Here are some FAQs:
What is the passenger limit for sedans in the UAE?
Most sedans can carry a maximum of 5 passengers, including the driver.
Can children be counted as passengers in the car’s limit?
Yes, infants and children count as passengers and must be in child safety seats.
What is the maximum passenger capacity for SUVs in the UAE?
SUVs can usually hold between 5 and 8 passengers depending on the model.
Is it legal to carry passengers in the back of a pick-up truck?
No, UAE law prohibits passengers from riding in the back of open pick-up trucks.
What are the penalties for exceeding the passenger limit in private vehicles?
Fines for carrying too many passengers can reach up to AED 3,000, depending on the severe violation.
Are seatbelts mandatory for all passengers in a car?
Yes, everyone in the vehicle must wear a seatbelt. If not, there is a fine of AED 400.
Can families exceed the standard passenger limit in a single car?
Yes, families traveling together can exceed the usual passenger limits as long as everyone is related.
What are the consequences of violating passenger limits on insurance claims?
If you exceed the passenger limit and have an accident, your insurance might deny your claim or pay less.
Are there temporary passenger restrictions due to COVID-19 in 2024?
As of April 2024, most COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted. However, it’s a good idea to check for any updates.
