Ministry of Interior outlines strict rules for school bus operators, parents, and drivers, warning of heavy fines for stop-arm violations
ABU DHABI — September 1, 2026 : The UAE Ministry of Interior, via the Federal Traffic Council, has rolled out a comprehensive nationwide traffic safety drive aimed at safeguarding students during daily school commutes, warning motorists that ignoring school bus stop signs carries strict penalties.
The fourth-quarter initiative, themed “Safe Road for Our Students,” coincides with the start of the new academic term. The campaign focuses on tightening safety protocols around school zones, boarding points, and transit corridors across all seven emirates. Educational and awareness materials are being distributed in Arabic, English, and Urdu across major social networks and local media channels in partnership with strategic traffic safety authorities.
Federal traffic regulations place explicit legal obligations on regular motorists and school transport operators. Under Article 91 of the UAE Federal Traffic Law, motorists driving in either direction must come to a complete halt whenever a school bus extends its mechanical “Stop” sign arm. Failing to stop carries a mandatory Dh1,000 fine and 10 black traffic points.
Bus drivers face legal liability as well. Under Article 90, school bus drivers who fail to deploy the “Stop” sign arm while picking up or dropping off students face a Dh500 fine along with six black traffic points.
The Ministry outlined operational mandates for bus drivers, requiring thorough daily mechanical inspections, strictly designated curbside stopping locations, and complete vehicle standstill until every child is safely seated with seatbelts fastened.
Transport supervisors must track daily attendance, record unauthorized absences, oversee orderly boarding, and monitor student discipline throughout transit.
Safety guidelines issued to families advise students to arrive at designated bus stops at least five minutes prior to pickup. Upon disembarking, children must take at least 10 steps away from the vehicle to remain clearly visible within the driver’s direct line of sight. Parents have been advised to accompany young children directly to pickup points and ensure an authorized guardian receives them after school.
