New UAE traffic rules in 2027: From vehicle ownership cap to lower minimum age for e-scooter permits
Traffic rules coming into force across the UAE next year will affect drivers, e-scooter riders and vehicle owners, with changes to registration fees, licensing limits and minimum ages for permits. The changes are part of cabinet decision No 174 of 2026, issued in October, which sets out the executive regulations of federal decree law no 14 of 2024 on traffic regulation. These are the major…
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is set to implement new traffic rules in 2027, as outlined in cabinet decision No 174 of 2026. These changes will impact drivers, e-scooter riders, and vehicle owners, affecting registration fees, licensing limits, and minimum ages for permits.
Vehicle licenses will remain valid for one year but owners can request a two-year registration period for new cars. The maximum number of vehicles a person can register is now limited to five, with additional fees for third, fourth, or fifth vehicles. Mandatory e-scooter permits will be introduced, with the minimum age for their use lowered to 15 years old.
Technical requirements for electric scooters include front headlights, rear lights, brake lights, and audible warning devices. Traffic safety expert Mustafa Aldah believes the new regulations align UAE traffic rules with modern practices such as e-scooters, delivery riders, and car rentals.
E-scooter permits are mandatory, but the minimum age for their use remains unclear, as Dubai's existing age restriction of 16 has not been addressed. Road safety advocate Thomas Edelmann warns that changing the minimum age to 15 may have little effect without stronger enforcement of current rules, noting that young children are already riding scooters without consequence.
Permits will be valid for three years, and riders must register their e-scooters with licensing authorities in each emirate. The regulations emphasize the importance of public awareness, as police forces across the UAE have repeatedly stressed the need to protect riders and other road users. Riders must use designated routes, comply with speed limits, and follow traffic signals.
Additionally, electric scooters must have front headlights, rear lights, brake lights, and audible warning devices, as well as brakes on at least the rear wheel.
The cabinet decision also introduces a limit of five vehicles that a person can register, with additional fees for exceeding this limit. Vehicle registration fees are Dh400 for new vehicles and Dh350 plus an extra Dh150 for inspection for renewals. Right-hand-drive vehicles are only licensed for display purposes, and vehicles failing to meet road safety requirements will not be licensed.
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