UAE Announces Major Changes to Traffic Laws From January 1

Notably, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will introduce a number of changes to its traffic laws from January 1, introducing new requirements for drivers, passengers and other road users.

Key points

• Here's How Punjab Intends to Reduce Road Accidents Nov 5, 2026 5: 50 pm.
• Isuzu D-Max to Obtain New Safety Features Nov 5, 2026 5: 53 pm.
• Ghandhara Industries to Assemble Zhongtong Buses in Pakistan Nov 5, 2026 5: 48 pm.
• The changes follow intends by Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority to introduce cameras and smart sensors to monitor delivery riders' speed, location and driving behavior.
• Once temporary licence holders reach 21, or when drivers who obtained their first licence at 21 or older renew it, the after validity periods will apply.

In practice, the changes form part of the government's broader efforts to improve road safety as the country's growing population places increasing pressure on its transport network. Here are the key changes motorists and other road users need to know. Here's How Punjab Intends to Reduce Road Accidents. 1. Nine-Hour Driving Limit.

Notably, the amended federal law introduces a maximum driving limit of nine hours within any 24-hour period to reduce driver fatigue.

Nevertheless, authorities have not clarified whether the restriction will apply to both private and professional drivers. The rule could have significant implications for taxi, bus and delivery service operators and their employees. 2. Minimum Age for E-Scooters.

In practice, the minimum age for obtaining an e-scooter permit will be 15. The permit will remain valid for three years. Nevertheless, it remains unclear whether Dubai's existing minimum age requirement of 16 will change or how authorities will reconcile the two requirements.

For context, the updated regulations allow licensing authorities to matter three types of permits covering e-bikes, e-scooters and small-wheeled cycles, including mopeds and scooters. Riders may employ these vehicles only on routes and roads designated by the licensing or traffic control authorities in each emirate.

Notably, the law will additionally introduce a classification system for personal mobility devices, including bicycles, e-bikes, e-scooters, small-wheeled cycles, skateboards and mobility aids for elderly residents and individuals with disabilities. 3. New Technical Requirements for E-Scooters and E-Bikes.

Article 4 of the updated law introduces mandatory safety requirements for personal mobility devices, including e-scooters and e-bikes.

These vehicles must have a front light for nighttime visibility, a rear light with a red brake light and an audible warning device, such as a bell or horn, fitted to the handlebars.

Each vehicle must additionally have at least one rear-wheel brake, properly maintained tires and intact wheel spokes under appropriate tension. All components must remain in safe working condition. Isuzu D-Max to Obtain New Safety Features. 4. New Rules for Delivery Riders.

Notably, the UAE will introduce extra safety requirements for motorcycle delivery riders. Under the new rules, delivery riders cannot carry passengers while completing deliveries. They additionally cannot apply backpacks to transport orders and must instead employ approved delivery equipment.

Notably, the changes follow intends by Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority to introduce cameras and smart sensors to monitor delivery riders' speed, location and driving behavior.

Notably, the monitoring system intends to identify dangerous riding, improve compliance with traffic regulations and produce roads safer. 5. Mandatory Child Safety Seats.

Drivers will be required to provide appropriate safety seats for children aged four and under. The seats must match the child's height and weight, remain installed in the rear passenger seats and meet national safety standards.

Meanwhile, the law allows exceptions for children with medical conditions that prevent them from using protective seats, provided their guardians submit an official medical certificate and another person accompanies them in the rear seat.

In vehicles without rear seats, drivers may install a child safety seat in the front, provided it faces backward and the airbag remains deactivated. Ghandhara Industries to Assemble Zhongtong Buses in Pakistan. 6. Maximum Vehicle Ownership Limit.

Meanwhile, the new legislation sets a maximum limit of five vehicles that one person can register. Anyone registering or renewing a third, fourth or fifth vehicle will have to pay an extra fee.

Nevertheless, the regulations do not specify the further charges or explain how the limit will affect individuals who already have more than five vehicles registered in their names. While renewal costs Dh350, with an extra Dh150 inspection fee, the standard fee for registering a new vehicle is Dh400. 7. Two-Year Vehicle Registration Option.

In practice, the new rules will allow owners of eligible light vehicles to apply for a two-year registration period instead of the existing one-year validity.

This option will apply to vehicles that were new when initially registered and are no more than six years old from their manufacturing date. Owners will need approval to benefit from the extended registration period. 8. First Aid at Traffic Accident Scenes.

Notably, the updated federal law will allow individuals to provide first aid to individuals injured in traffic accidents, provided they hold a valid, accredited certificate confirming completion of first aid training.

Anyone offering assistance must additionally have the physical ability to respond appropriately to the injured person's condition. Punjab's E-Challan System Challenged in Lahore High Court. 9. New Driving Licence Validity Periods.

Meanwhile, the regulations introduce different driving licence validity periods based on the holder's age and nationality.

Once temporary licence holders reach 21, or when drivers who obtained their first licence at 21 or older renew it, the after validity periods will apply. UAE and GCC nationals: 10 years. Expatriate residents: Five years. 10. New Eyesight Requirements for Drivers.

Meanwhile, the updated law additionally establishes eyesight standards for drivers operating different categories of vehicles. Stricter vision requirements will apply to drivers of light and heavy buses as well as operators of light and heavy machinery.

Licensing authorities may additionally accept eyesight examination reports issued outside the UAE when drivers apply to renew their licences. Stay Connected with ProPakistani.

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Taken together, the developments around UAE Announces Major Changes to Traffic Laws From January 1 point to a situation that is still moving, and the coming days should bring more clarity.