DUBAI – The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has announced a series of new traffic regulations that will come into effect on January 1, 2027, introducing various changes including driving licence validity and eyesight requirements.
According to the announced regulations, UAE and other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nationals will receive driving licences valid for 10 years.
Meanwhile, foreign residents, including Pakistani citizens, will be issued driving licences with a validity period of five years.
New Driving Licence and Eyesight Requirements
The updated rules will also introduce revised eyesight assessment standards for drivers. Applicants will be required to undergo vision tests before their driving licences can be renewed.
Different eyesight assessment criteria will apply depending on the category of vehicle a person is authorised to drive.
Daily Driving Hours to Be Restricted
The new regulations also address driving hours for professional drivers to improve road safety and reduce the risk of accidents.
Under the proposed restrictions, professional drivers will not be allowed to drive for more than nine hours within a 24-hour period.
The proposed daily driving limits will cover taxi, truck, bus and delivery drivers. Driving while experiencing fatigue or drowsiness will also be prohibited.
The Federal Traffic Council has been authorised to modify the prescribed nine-hour driving limit. Any changes made under this authority will apply to both private and professional drivers.
Child Car Seats Made Mandatory
Another important change concerns the safety of young passengers.
Under the new rules, children aged four years or younger must be secured in appropriate child safety seats while travelling in vehicles.
These seats must be installed in the rear of the vehicle and selected according to the child’s height and weight.
