Starting January 1, 2027, the UAE will implement updated federal traffic regulations that introduce stricter requirements for renewing long-expired driving licences. Under the new Cabinet Decision No. 174 of 2026, motorists whose licences have been expired for more than a decade will be required to pass both theoretical and practical tests to regain their driving privileges. While this process is similar to existing evaluation procedures already practiced by the Roads and Transport Authority in Dubai, the federal ruling standardizes this assessment across the country to ensure all long-term inactive drivers meet modern safety and proficiency benchmarks.

In addition to these renewal requirements, the new legislation updates the guidelines for learner driving permits. The validity period for these permits will be extended from three months to a maximum of six months, with the option for renewal. The regulations also reinforce safety protocols for instruction, mandating that only the learner and a certified instructor be present in the vehicle during training sessions. These changes, which replace the outdated 1997 ministerial resolution, aim to streamline the licensing process while ensuring that both new learners and returning drivers adhere to updated road safety standards.