The measures are contained in Cabinet Decision No. 174 of 2026, which establishes the implementing regulations of Federal Decree-Law No. 14 of 2024 concerning the regulation of road traffic.

According to the Ministry of Interior and the Emirates News Agency, the new provisions are scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2027, giving motorists and vehicle owners time to understand the upcoming requirements.

One of the most important changes concerns the number of vehicles that individual foreign residents will be permitted to register and license in the UAE.

Under Article 89, residents may register up to two vehicles without additional fees associated with exceeding that number, while each additional vehicle will be subject to a supplementary registration or renewal fee.

The regulations establish an overall maximum of five licensed vehicles per individual resident and also prohibit right-hand-drive vehicles from being licensed for road use, although such vehicles may be permitted for exhibition purposes.

The legislation also introduces the possibility of extending the registration validity of eligible light vehicles from one year to two years, subject to approval by the relevant licensing authority.

To qualify, a vehicle must have been brand new when first registered and must not be more than six years old from its manufacturing date, in addition to satisfying the applicable regulatory requirements.

This measure does not automatically extend the registration of every vehicle, but instead creates an option for qualifying owners to request a longer licensing period.

Another major section of the regulations addresses electric scooters, bicycles, and other personal mobility devices increasingly used across cities in the Emirates.

The rules establish a classification framework for these devices and require applicants for the relevant permits to be at least 15 years old, with permits remaining valid for three years.

They also introduce technical safety requirements covering front and rear lights, braking systems, warning devices, and suitable tyres, while restricting the use of regulated devices to authorized roads and designated routes.

Additional protections have been introduced for children travelling in motor vehicles, including mandatory child safety seats for children aged four years and under.

These seats must be appropriate for each child’s height and weight and should normally be installed in the rear seats in accordance with applicable national safety standards.

Medical exceptions are permitted under specified conditions, while vehicles without rear seats may use a rear-facing child seat in the front provided the airbag is disabled and the relevant safety requirements are satisfied.

The regulations also establish a maximum driving period of nine hours within any 24-hour period, alongside restrictions on driving when fatigue or exhaustion compromises road safety.

The Federal Traffic Council may adjust this limit, while professional delivery drivers must comply with additional requirements concerning uniforms, valid professional permits, and approved delivery equipment.

Motorcycle delivery drivers will not be permitted to carry passengers while performing deliveries or transport orders in backpacks, with the new provisions forming part of a broader road safety framework scheduled for implementation on January 1, 2027.

Source: UAE Ministry of Interior and Emirates News Agency (WAM), reporting Cabinet Decision No. 174 of 2026.

Announcement date: November 4, 2026.

Effective date: January 1, 2027.