UAE Unveils Major Traffic Law Overhaul for 2027: What Drivers Need to Know

Starting January 1, the UAE is set to implement significant changes to its traffic laws, aiming to reduce accident rates, alleviate congestion, enhance child passenger safety, and regulate driver hours. This comprehensive road legislation update is a cornerstone of the government's ongoing safety initiative, designed to accommodate the increasing demands on the nation's transport network due to sustained population growth. The revised federal traffic law regulations are anticipated to affect millions of daily road users across the UAE. Notably, new rules will cap driving time for professional drivers to nine hours per day. The National provides a detailed overview of these upcoming measures for all road users as authorities usher in the New Year with these changes.

Nine-Hour Driving Limit

The amended federal law establishes a maximum driving period of nine hours within any 24-hour period to combat driver fatigue. While it remains unclear if this rule applies to both private and professional drivers, it is expected to have substantial implications for taxi, bus, and delivery service operators and their employees. The National is seeking clarification from authorities regarding the practical implementation of this limit.

Minimum Age for E-Scooters Introduced

Under the updated legislation, the minimum age for operating an e-scooter has been set at 15. Permits for e-scooters, valid for three years, will also require users to be at least 15 years old. The new decision does not specify whether Dubai's existing age restriction of 16 will be amended or how these requirements will be reconciled. The traffic regulations will permit three types of permits issued by licensing authorities, covering e-bikes, e-scooters, and small-wheeled cycles (mopeds and scooters). These modes of transport are restricted to routes and roads designated by the licensing authority or the relevant traffic control authority in each emirate. A classification system for personal mobility devices, commonly used for 'last-mile' journeys, will be introduced. This system will encompass bicycles, e-bikes, e-scooters, small-wheeled cycles, skateboards, and mobility aids for the elderly and individuals with disabilities.

Technical Requirements for E-Scooters and E-Bikes

Article 4 of the updated law mandates that personal mobility transport, such as e-scooters and e-bikes, must be equipped with a front light for night visibility, a rear light with a red brake light, and an audible warning device on the handlebars. Additionally, each device must have at least one brake on the rear wheel, properly maintained and securely fitted tires, and intact wheel spokes under appropriate tension. All components must be in safe working condition.

Delivery Rider Safety Checks

A series of regulations are being introduced to ensure the safety of the UAE's significant number of delivery riders. They are prohibited from carrying passengers on their motorcycles during deliveries or using backpacks for order transport. Instead, they must utilize designated and approved equipment for carrying deliveries. This measure follows Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority's plans to deploy cameras and smart sensors to monitor the speed, location, and driving behavior of delivery motorcycle riders through a new system. The RTA stated that this initiative aims to identify dangerous riding practices, enhance compliance with traffic rules, and improve road safety.

Mandatory Child Seats

The new law requires drivers to provide appropriate safety seats for children aged four and under. These seats must be suitable for the child's weight and height, installed in the rear seats, and comply with national standards and specifications. Exceptions are allowed for children with medical conditions preventing the use of a protective seat, provided an official medical certificate is submitted and an accompanying adult is present in the rear seat. In vehicles without rear seats, a child safety seat may be placed in the front, facing backward, with the airbag deactivated.

Vehicle Ownership Cap Introduced

The UAE will now cap the number of vehicles one person can register to five. Individuals wishing to register or renew a third, fourth, or fifth vehicle will be subject to an additional fee. The regulation does not specify the amount of this additional fee or how the limit will apply to individuals who already own more than five registered vehicles. The standard fee for registering a new vehicle is Dh400, and the renewal fee is Dh350, with an extra Dh150 for inspection. This move is a response to the significant increase in the number of vehicles on UAE roads in recent years, prompting authorities to intensify efforts to ease congestion and improve traffic flow.

Two-Year Vehicle Registration Option

Owners of light vehicles will have the option to extend their current one-year registration validity to two years, subject to approval. This option is available for vehicles that are brand new at the time of initial registration and are no more than six years old from their manufacturing date.

First Aid Administration Permitted

The federal law now permits individuals to administer first aid to victims of traffic accidents, provided they hold an accredited certificate confirming completion of a first aid training course. The certificate must be valid if it carries an expiry date. Individuals offering assistance must also possess the physical capacity to appropriately respond to the injured person's condition.

Updated Driving Licence Rules

The regulation also introduces new driving licence validity periods based on age and nationality. Once temporary licence holders reach 21, or for those who obtained their first licence at 21 or older upon renewal, licences issued to UAE and GCC nationals will be valid for 10 years. Licences issued to expatriate residents will be valid for five years.

Eyesight Standards for Drivers

The new law establishes specific eyesight standards for different driver categories. Stricter requirements will apply to drivers of light and heavy buses, as well as operators of light and heavy machinery. Licensing authorities may also accept eyesight examination reports issued outside the UAE to facilitate the renewal of licences for drivers with expired documents.