UAE announces new traffic laws

UAE government announces new traffic laws with updates on lowering age limits for drivers, pedestrians and more

Good news for those who want to get a driver’s license! The UAE Government has announced a new federal decree on traffic regulations to lower the driving age limit.

The change will come into force on March 29, 2025, and those who are 17 years old at that time will be allowed to obtain a driver’s license in the UAE.

UAE Government issues Federal Decree on traffic regulation aimed at keeping pace with the rapid development of transport worldwide#BAEGOV pic.twitter.com/AD8VgGgswn

— UAEGOV (@UAEmediaoffice) October 25, 2024

Previously, the minimum age limit for applying for cars and light vehicles was 18.

In addition, the country will ban the use of vehicles that make too much noise, including disallowing the use of car horns in cities except to prevent danger or accidents.

The new regulations also prevent pedestrians from crossing roads where the speed limit exceeds 80 kilometers per hour. Authorities announced that those who do not comply will be held responsible for all legal and criminal liability.

They were also warned of ‘deterrent penalties’ for serious violations that could lead to fatal accidents. These include driving under the influence of alcohol or any narcotic substance; hit-and-run cases; jaywalking; or driving in a valley during flooding.

It will now be necessary to obtain permission from the relevant authority for the transportation of dangerous goods or unusual loads.

New traffic laws were announced on Friday and reflect some changes to accommodate the growing use of driverless and electric vehicles. It establishes the conditions and procedures for the inspection, registration, licensing, re-registration and renewal of driverless vehicles, as well as mechanisms for testing new technologies in the automotive industry.

Be safe!

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Image credit Jeandy Soriano