All drivers in the UAE will be restricted to a maximum of nine hours of driving within any 24-hour period starting January 1, 2027. Introduced via Cabinet Decision No. 174 of 2026, these federal traffic reforms aim to reduce congestion and improve road safety by addressing driver fatigue.
New Laws Limit Driving Hours to Prevent Fatigue
The nine-hour driving limit applies to all motorists, ranging from professional truck drivers to those operating small passenger cars, Reporter TV reported. Under Article 7 of the new law, drivers are strictly prohibited from operating a vehicle if they experience excessive tiredness or sleepiness, even if they have not yet reached the nine-hour threshold, Express Kerala noted. Driving while fatigued will be considered a serious legal violation.
Fatigue management follows data from the Ministry of Interior showing that 20 major road accidents in 2025 were caused by driver fatigue and sleepiness, Kerala Kaumudi reported. This follows a specific incident last October on Emirates Road where a truck driver fell asleep, prompting warnings from Dubai Police, Reporter Live reported. Brigadier Juma Salem bin Suwaidan, Director of the General Department of Traffic in Dubai, has urged motorists to ensure they have adequate rest before traveling and to stop in a safe location if they feel sleepy, Reporter Live reported.
The reforms also introduce a cap on vehicle registration per individual. Residents can register up to two vehicles without paying additional fees, but an extra charge will apply for a third, fourth, and fifth vehicle, Suprabhaatham reported. No individual will be permitted to register or renew more than five vehicles in their name.
These limits apply to each individual resident rather than to entire households. While authorities have not specified the exact cost of the additional fees, the regulations under Article 89 of Cabinet Decision No. 174 of 2026 are intended to reduce the number of vehicles during peak hours, Suprabhaatham reported.
New Rules Mandate Speed Reductions and Testing
Drivers with licenses that expired more than 10 years ago will face new requirements to regain driving privileges. According to Samakalikamalayalam, such individuals must pass both theory and practical examinations to renew their licenses. The Federal Traffic Council may determine the minimum amount of testing required for these exams. Additionally, the validity of learner’s permits will increase to six months and will be eligible for renewal, Samakalikamalayalam added. These rules are part of the executive regulations for Federal Decree-Law No. 14 of 2024, Samakalikamalayalam reported.
A maximum speed limit of 40 km/h will apply in residential areas to protect pedestrians and improve safety near sensitive locations, Manorama Online reported. Drivers must exercise extreme caution and give priority to pedestrians near schools, hospitals, and crowded areas. Motorists are prohibited from turning or speeding while pedestrians are crossing the road.
The rules also include several specific mandates for various road users:
- All passengers, in both front and rear seats, must wear seatbelts, Manorama Online reported.
- The use of mobile phones and other distracting electronic devices while driving is completely banned, Manorama Online reported.
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs will result in strict legal action, Manorama Online reported.
- Delivery riders are prohibited from carrying passengers on motorcycles and must use approved loading equipment rather than backpacks, Madhyamam reported.
- Cyclists must wear helmets and are required to ride in single file, using both hands on the handlebars, Manorama Online reported.
Professional drivers are required to maintain a valid permit and must log into a designated digital system while operating their vehicles, Madhyamam reported. They must not transport prohibited items or goods contrary to public order, Manorama Online reported.