UAE Issues New Driving Hour Caps and Vehicle Registration Regulations for 2027

The UAE government issued executive regulations under Cabinet Decision No. 174 of 2026 pursuant to Federal Decree Law No. 14 of 2024, introducing significant updates to traffic and road rules across the country, Gulf News reported.

Starting January 1, 2027, drivers in the UAE will face a strict driving cap of nine hours behind the wheel within any 24-hour period. The mandatory restriction will directly impact transport, logistics, courier, and fleet companies, requiring businesses to restructure operations away from traditional 12-hour driver shifts.

The updated executive regulations also limit individual residents from registering more than two vehicles under standard terms. Residents registering additional vehicles will be charged fees, up to an overall cap of five cars per individual.

Furthermore, the regulations establish new standards for micromobility, mandating a minimum age requirement of 15 years for riders of e-scooters and e-bikes seeking to obtain a three-year operating permit.