Certain emergency doctors in the UAE will be allowed priority road access when responding to urgent medical calls. Emirates 24|7 says a new ministerial decree permits authorised responders to exceed speed limits by up to 40km/h on external roads under strict conditions. They must still stop at red lights and obey restrictions near schools, hospitals and residential areas.

The details

The UAE has introduced a ministerial resolution establishing special road-priority arrangements for eligible doctors responding to medical emergencies.

Emirates 24|7 reported the provisions on 4 November 2026.

Ministerial Resolution No. 481 of 2026 concerns vehicles providing essential services, including certain medical responders working with hospitals and accredited health authorities.

Eligible doctors responding to urgent calls may receive limited exemptions from normal road restrictions.

These include permission to exceed posted speed limits on external roads by no more than 40km/h above the applicable limit.

Other permitted measures may include using designated emergency lanes, road shoulders and bus lanes when traffic conditions require them.

The exemptions are subject to authorisation and operational procedures.

Doctors must meet the relevant professional and training requirements, including holding a valid UAE medical licence and obtaining the required approval.

The regulation also places clear limits on these permissions.

Authorised responders cannot ignore red traffic signals. They must observe speed restrictions around schools, hospitals and residential districts.

They must also give way to emergency vehicles such as ambulances, police vehicles and fire engines when required.

The provisions do not exempt authorised drivers from criminal, civil or traffic liability arising from their actions.

For other motorists, the announcement does not create a general right to exceed speed limits during personal emergencies.