Dubai, UAE – Teenagers across the UAE are eagerly preparing to get behind the wheel as the country’s new driving law comes into effect on March 29.
The regulation, which lowers the minimum driving age for cars and light vehicles from 18 to 17, has sparked excitement among young drivers eager to embrace newfound independence.
The change follows a federal decree law on traffic regulations announced in October last year. Under the revised rule, 17-year-olds will be allowed to apply for a driving permit, enroll in lessons, and take the Road and Transport Authority (RTA) test, paving the way for them to drive legally in the UAE.
For twins Rhea and Rohan Nihalani, who turned 17 last November, the change presents an exciting challenge. The duo has turned their driving ambitions into a friendly competition to see who can secure their license first.
“Whoever wins gets first dibs driving our parents’ car and, of course, bragging rights,” said Rhea.
“When I get the licence, I will drive myself to the beach and go surfing. I also want to drive myself to school occasionally. I can’t wait to be free to go places without bothering my parents.”
Rohan, a frequent metro user, is looking forward to the flexibility of driving. “There are so many places that I can’t get to because the metro doesn’t go there,” he said.
“I look forward to going to many of those places with friends. Even going to a fast food drive-through would be great.”
While some may worry about younger drivers on the road, Rhea is confident in her abilities. “I will be learning under experienced instructors and taking an RTA test, so concerns surrounding my safety would not really be applicable,” she added.
Amaan Mohiddina, another eager teenager, will turn 17 in April and is counting down the days until he can register for his driving lessons. For him, driving represents not just freedom but responsibility.
“I have always loved cars, but learning to drive is more than fun. It’s about becoming self-dependent,” he said.
“I want to be able to drive my younger sister to school and help my parents with dropping me and picking me up. It’ll be great to pick up my friends and go on road trips without relying on taxis or public transport.”
Despite his enthusiasm, Amaan understands the importance of road safety. “I know driving in the UAE requires discipline and awareness. I’m making sure to take my lessons seriously and be a safe driver from Day 1,” he said.
While teenagers are eager to hit the road, driving schools are awaiting further clarification from Dubai’s RTA regarding the implementation of the new law.
Fatima Raees, director of customer experience and marketing at Emirates Driving Institute, said there has been a surge in inquiries since the law was announced.
“We have been getting a lot of enquiries from parents and teenagers about the 17-year-old licence eligibility. However, we have not yet received any directives from the RTA regarding changes in the process,” Raees stated.
“As of now, the procedure remains the same. Applicants must take mandatory driving classes and pay the standard fees.”
Under the current system, a 17-and-a-half-year-old can enroll in driving lessons and even pass the test. However, according to Raees, “the licence will only be issued once the applicant turns 18.”
As the March 29 date approaches, excitement continues to build among UAE teenagers eager to embrace their first taste of driving freedom.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members