Picture for illustrative purposes only. ARCHIVE

A new federal decree law on traffic regulations was announced by the UAE Government on Friday (October 25), which will come into effect on March 29, 2025. 17-year-olds can now obtain a driving licence, according to the new law. Previously, individuals had to be at least 18 to drive cars and light vehicles. The country will also ban noisy vehicles and limit car horn use within cities, allowing it only when necessary to prevent danger or accidents. The new regulations also prohibit pedestrians from crossing roads with speed limits over 80 kilometres per hour. Authorities stated that those who fail to comply will bear civil or criminal liability. They also warned of "deterrent penalties" in severe cases, such as driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, hit-and-run incidents, jaywalking, or driving in valleys during floods. Transporting hazardous materials or unusual loads now also requires a permit from the relevant authority. The regulations also involve updating vehicle classifications to support the increasing use of self-driving and electric vehicles. According to the government, the amendments to the traffic law aim to "keep up with the rapid evolution of transportation worldwide." The government will also set conditions and procedures for inspecting, registering, licensing, re-registering, and renewing self-driving vehicles. It will also establish ways to test new technologies in the vehicle industry. FLE/Expat Media
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