How Dubai issues 119,000 driving licences in six months
Dubai: Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) issued 119,188 driving licences in the first half of 2026, reflecting continued demand for driving services as the emirate’s population and economic activity grow. The total included 96,400 new driving licences, while 22,788 licences were issued to motorists exchanging licences from countries approved for conversion to a UAE driving licence. Get…
Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) issued a total of 119,188 driving licences in the first half of 2026, showcasing the city's growing demand for driving services and its efficient driver training system. Of these, 96,400 were brand new licences, while 22,788 were issued to motorists converting licences from foreign countries approved for conversion to a UAE driving licence.
The RTA attributes the impressive figures to the effectiveness of Dubai's driver training and testing system, which increasingly employs smart technologies and artificial intelligence for improved assessment quality and accuracy. The authority continuously updates its training programmes and road-safety education, with a focus on defensive and preventive driving.
Learners are trained to anticipate hazards, respond to sudden changes, and make safer decisions while driving, using advanced driving simulators to practice various road scenarios.
AI technology is employed in driving tests, with smart testing systems using cameras and smart sensors at testing yards to assess learner performance against standardised criteria. This ensures objective and transparent assessments, helping drivers meet the required safety standards before obtaining their licences.
Road-safety awareness is a crucial component of the licensing process. Theory lessons cover traffic laws, speed limits, safe following distances, pedestrian rights, and the risks of distracted driving, particularly mobile phone use. Learners are also taught about correct lane discipline, traffic signals, and road signs.
Dubai's licensing journey begins with opening a traffic file and passing an eye test. Learners then proceed to theory classes and the knowledge test, followed by practical training covering essential driving skills, defensive driving, emergency manoeuvres, and internal assessments. The final step is the RTA road test, after which learners receive their Dubai driving licence.
These efforts to enhance road safety, customer satisfaction, and quality of life contribute to Dubai's smart and sustainable transport system. In H1 2026, more than 58,000 drivers exchanged their foreign licences for UAE permits, demonstrating the popularity of Dubai's driving licence services.
Written by urgent.news from Gulf News's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
