Motorists in the UAE will be limited to nine hours behind the wheel in any 24-hour period from January 1, 2027, under new federal traffic regulations that also change how long driving licences stay valid for young drivers, citizens and expatriate residents.
The rules are set out in Cabinet Decision No. 174 of 2026, the executive regulations of Federal Decree-Law No. 14 of 2024 on traffic, according to Gulf News and The National. Both outlets reported the details on November 4.
What the nine-hour limit says
Under the regulations, drivers must keep their total driving time to nine hours within a 24-hour window. The Federal Traffic Council has the power to amend that limit later.
A separate provision bars anyone from driving while tired or exhausted to the point that it affects their ability to drive safely. Gulf News noted that this applies regardless of the clock, so a fatigued driver is expected to stop even before reaching nine hours.
Some practical questions remain open. The published reports do not set out required rest breaks, explain how driving hours will be monitored or name a specific penalty for exceeding the cap. Gulf News reported that the rule sits among the general obligations that apply to all drivers, while The National said it was unclear whether private motorists would be treated in the same way as taxi, bus, lorry and delivery drivers, and that it had asked the authorities for clarification.
Traffic safety expert Mustafa Aldah told The National the change was “the first step towards better regulation of this sector of the economy”, adding that it could help reduce serious crashes involving lorries and buses.
New licence validity periods
The regulations also restructure licence durations, according to Gulf News:
- Under 21: licences are treated as temporary, valid for one year and renewable for a further year.
- First-time applicants aged 21 or over: a two-year licence.
- UAE and GCC nationals: ten years, renewable for the same period, once a temporary holder turns 21 or an adult first licence is renewed.
- Expatriate residents: five years, renewable for the same period, on the same basis.
Minimum ages are also listed: 18 for a light vehicle, 20 for a heavy vehicle or mechanical equipment, 21 for buses, and 17 for the first motorcycle category. Applicants need a valid Emirates ID, a medical fitness report from an approved healthcare authority, passed driving tests and the prescribed fees.
Other rules drivers should know
The executive regulations cover a wide range of everyday behaviour on the road. Among the provisions reported:
- Speed limits on internal residential roads may not exceed 40km/h, and drivers must slow down near crossings, schools and hospitals.
- All passengers, in front and rear seats, must wear seat belts.
- Drivers must not pass between a stopped school or public bus and the pavement while passengers are boarding or leaving.
- Professional drivers must hold a valid permit and log into the approved system in their vehicle.
- Motorcycle delivery riders may not carry passengers, and backpacks are banned for carrying orders.
- Unlawful mobile phone use and driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol remain prohibited.
Earlier this week, Al Gulf News reported on related road rules: authorised doctors and essential workers allowed to exceed speed limits in emergencies.
What it means for residents and visitors
The new validity periods apply from January 1, 2027. Under them, licences held by expatriate residents are renewed every five years, and those of UAE and GCC nationals every ten years, once the holder has moved beyond the temporary or first-licence stage.
Tourists are not affected in the same way. Visitors on non-residence stays may continue to drive light vehicles and motorcycles using a valid foreign or international licence, provided they come from an eligible country or hold a recognised international permit. That exemption does not extend to residents.
Sources: Gulf News, Gulf News (licence rules), The National
