The UAE will introduce several changes to its traffic laws from January 1. The new regulations will affect drivers, passengers, delivery riders and other road users.
The changes aim to improve road safety and reduce traffic accidents. They also seek to ease congestion and strengthen child passenger protection. Another key objective is reducing driver fatigue through updated driving limits.
The new rules come as the UAE experiences growing pressure on its transport network. Authorities are introducing measures to improve road conditions and regulate different types of vehicles.
Here are the major changes motorists and road users should understand.
1. Nine-Hour Driving Limit
The updated federal law introduces a maximum driving limit of nine hours within 24 hours. This measure aims to reduce accidents caused by tired drivers.
However, authorities have not clarified whether the restriction applies to private and professional drivers. The rule could affect taxi, bus and delivery service operators.
2. Minimum Age for E-Scooter Permits
The minimum age for obtaining an e-scooter permit will be 15 years. Each permit will remain valid for three years.
However, questions remain about Dubai’s existing minimum age requirement of 16. Authorities have not explained whether the emirate will change its current rule.
The updated regulations also introduce three permit categories. These cover e-bikes, e-scooters and small-wheeled cycles, including mopeds and scooters.
Riders can only use these vehicles on approved routes. Licensing and traffic authorities in each emirate will designate permitted roads.
3. New Safety Requirements for E-Scooters and E-Bikes
The new law introduces mandatory technical requirements for personal mobility devices. These include e-scooters and electric bicycles.
Vehicles must have front lights for visibility during nighttime travel. They must also feature rear lights and red brake lights.
An audible warning device, such as a bell or horn, will also be necessary. Each vehicle must have at least one rear-wheel brake.
The rules also require properly maintained tyres and intact wheel spokes. All vehicle components must remain in safe working condition.
4. Additional Rules for Delivery Riders
The UAE will introduce stricter safety requirements for motorcycle delivery riders. Riders will not be allowed to carry passengers during deliveries.
They will also be prohibited from using backpacks to transport orders. Instead, they must use approved delivery equipment.
Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority is also planning additional monitoring measures. These include cameras and smart sensors to track delivery riders.
The system will monitor speed, location and driving behaviour. It aims to identify dangerous riding and improve compliance with traffic rules.
5. Mandatory Safety Seats for Young Children
Drivers must provide suitable safety seats for children aged four and under. These seats must match the child’s height and weight.
The seats must be installed in the rear passenger area. They must also meet national safety standards.
Certain medical exceptions will be allowed under specific conditions. Guardians must provide an official medical certificate for the exemption.
Another person must also accompany the child in the rear seat. Vehicles without rear seats may use a front-facing installation arrangement.
However, the child seat must face backward. The vehicle’s airbag must also remain deactivated.
6. Limit on Vehicle Ownership
The new legislation sets a maximum limit of five registered vehicles per person. Owners registering or renewing their third, fourth or fifth vehicle will face additional fees.
However, authorities have not announced the additional charges. The regulations also do not clarify how existing owners with more than five vehicles will be affected.
The standard new vehicle registration fee is Dh400. Renewal costs Dh350, while the inspection fee is Dh150.
7. Two-Year Vehicle Registration Option
Vehicle owners will receive an option for two-year registration. This facility will apply to eligible light vehicles.
The vehicle must have been new when initially registered. It must also be no more than six years old from its manufacturing date.
Owners will need approval to receive the extended registration period. This option will provide an alternative to annual registration.
8. First Aid at Accident Scenes
The updated law will allow trained individuals to provide first aid at traffic accident scenes. However, they must hold a valid and accredited first aid certificate.
They must also have the physical ability to assist injured people. The measure aims to support emergency assistance following road accidents.
9. Updated Driving Licence Validity
The new regulations will introduce different licence validity periods. These will depend on the driver’s nationality and age.
UAE and GCC nationals will receive licences valid for 10 years. Expatriate residents will receive licences valid for five years.
These periods will apply after temporary licence holders reach 21. They will also apply when eligible drivers renew their licences.
10. New Eyesight Standards for Drivers
The updated law will establish eyesight requirements for different vehicle categories. Stricter standards will apply to drivers of light and heavy buses.
Operators of light and heavy machinery will also face specific vision requirements. Licensing authorities may accept eyesight reports from outside the UAE.
These reports may be used during driving licence renewal applications.
Overall, the UAE’s updated traffic regulations introduce several changes for road users. The measures cover driving limits, vehicle safety, child protection and licensing requirements.
In other related news also read UAE Tightens Scrutiny of Pakistani Travellers
The new rules also address delivery services and personal mobility devices. Motorists should review the applicable requirements before the changes take effect on January 1.
