Dubai, UAE – Many 17-year-olds across the UAE are eagerly counting down the days until they can apply for their driving licences after the government announced that the minimum age for obtaining a car licence would be lowered from 18 to 17.
The change, part of a federal decree law on traffic regulations announced in October 2024, will officially take effect on March 29, 2025. For twins Rhea and Rohan Nihalani, who turned 17 in November, the new rule has sparked a friendly sibling competition to see who will be the first to obtain their licence.
“Whoever wins gets first dibs on driving our parents’ car—and, of course, bragging rights,” said Rhea. “When I win, I’m going to drive myself to the beach and go surfing. I also want to drive myself to school occasionally. I can’t wait to have the freedom to go places without bothering my parents.”
Rohan, a frequent metro user, expressed excitement about the new mobility options driving will provide. “There are so many places that I can’t get to because the metro doesn’t go there,” he said. “I am looking forward to going to many of those places with friends. Even going to a fast-food drive-through would be great.”
Despite being among the youngest ever to drive legally in the UAE, Rhea said she was not concerned about safety. “I will be learning under experienced instructors and taking the RTA test,” she said. “So, I think concerns surrounding my safety would not really be applicable.”
Amaan Mohiddina, who turns 17 in April, is also eagerly awaiting the opportunity to drive. For him, getting behind the wheel is not just about independence but also about responsibility.
“I have always loved cars, but learning to drive is more than just 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.”
Amaan also acknowledged the responsibility that comes with driving. “I know that driving in the UAE requires discipline and awareness,” he said. “I’m making sure to take my lessons seriously and be a safe driver from day one.”
While many teenagers are eager to begin the process, driving schools are still awaiting further directives from Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). Fatima Raees, director of customer experience and marketing at Emirates Driving Institute, noted a significant increase in inquiries since the announcement.
“We have been getting a lot of inquiries from parents and teenagers about the 17-year-old licence eligibility,” she said. “However, we have not yet received any directives from the RTA regarding changes in the process. As of now, the procedure remains the same. Applicants will have to take mandatory driving classes and pay the standard fees.”
Raees also clarified that while 17-and-a-half-year-olds can register, take lessons, and even pass the driving test, their licences will only be issued once they turn 18.
With March 29 fast approaching, young aspiring drivers across the UAE are preparing to hit the road, embracing a newfound sense of independence and responsibility.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members