UAE Enacts New Federal Traffic Regulations Taking Effect in January 2027

The United Arab Emirates has enacted Cabinet Decision No. 174 of 2026, which establishes the executive regulations of Federal Decree-Law No. 14 of 2024 on the Regulation of Traffic, official state media reported. The comprehensive regulatory framework, officially gazetted following its issuance by the UAE Cabinet, will take effect across all seven emirates on January 1, 2027.

Under Article 7 of the decision, motorists will be restricted to driving a maximum of nine hours within any 24-hour period, a rule that applies broadly to all road users rather than solely heavy vehicle drivers. Operating a vehicle while fatigued or exhausted to a degree that impairs safe control is strictly prohibited, while the Federal Traffic Council retains authority to revise driving time limits as required.

Article 89 limits individual residents to registering a maximum of five vehicles in total. Residents may register up to two vehicles without additional fees, while third, fourth, and fifth vehicles will incur additional charges. The decision also bans right-hand-drive vehicles from road licensing except for exhibition purposes, while Article 98 permits owners of new light vehicles up to six years old from manufacture to apply for two-year registration renewals.

For commercial logistics and transport services, Article 10 imposes eight distinct operational requirements on delivery drivers. Delivery operators are barred from carrying orders in backpacks and from carrying passengers on delivery-licensed motorcycles. Drivers must hold valid professional permits, wear official uniforms, log into approved onboard electronic vehicle systems, and adhere strictly to authorized cargo loading guidelines.