Minimum Driving Age Lowered to 17 Under New Traffic Law

In a landmark move, the government has unveiled a comprehensive update to its traffic laws, effective from March 29th, 2025, including a reduced minimum driving age of 17.

This decision marks a shift from the previous 18-year requirement, making the UAE one of the few nations globally to adopt a lower driving age. The amendment aims to expand access to transportation for young people while instilling road safety awareness and responsible driving practices early on.

Additionally, the new law introduces measures to enhance road safety and minimize disruptions, which include noise pollution regulations that restrict the use of excessively loud vehicles.

Besides updated pedestrian regulations, the revised law takes a strong stance on traffic violations with "deterrent penalties" for severe offenses that pose significant public risk. Instances such as driving under the influence of alcohol or narcotics, hit-and-run cases, and jaywalking carry serious repercussions under the updated rules.

Finally, anticipating advancements in automotive technology, the law incorporates regulatory standards for self-driving and electric vehicles. These amendments cover inspections, registration, and licensing procedures tailored for autonomous vehicles, setting up frameworks for the integration of emerging automotive innovations.