UAE sets five-vehicle limit for residents from January 1

The new executive regulations for Federal Law No. 14 of 2024 on traffic regulation, which take effect on January 1, 2027, set a standard ownership limit of two vehicles per individual resident. Residents wishing to register additional vehicles or renew their registrations will be charged an extra fee for each vehicle, with a maximum of five vehicles registered to any one resident.

The regulations prohibit the registration of right-hand-drive vehicles, allowing them only for exhibition purposes. They also prohibit the registration of vehicles that do not meet traffic safety requirements.

Vehicle Registration Conditions

To qualify for registration, a vehicle must be designed and manufactured in accordance with the safety and durability specifications established by the competent authority in the UAE. Registration is issued electronically, although a paper copy may be provided at the owner’s request. It is valid for one year and may be renewed.

At the owner’s request, the licensing authority may extend a light vehicle’s registration validity to two years, provided that:

The vehicle is classified as a light vehicle and was brand new when first registered.

No more than six years have elapsed since its manufacture.

It is owned by a natural person, rather than a legal entity.

The vehicle owner or their legal representative is responsible for initiating registration renewal in accordance with the approved procedures. Renewal requires the following:

A technical inspection confirming the vehicle’s roadworthiness and compliance with all safety and security standards.

The clearance of all restrictions on the vehicle’s file, including payment of any recorded traffic fines.

A valid accident insurance policy covering the renewal period.

Three Conditions for Exempting Vehicles of Travelers in Transit, Visitors, and Tourists

Vehicles belonging to foreign travelers in transit, visitors, and tourists are exempt from standard registration and licensing requirements if the following conditions are met:

The vehicle is registered in its country of origin, and its registration remains valid throughout its stay in the UAE.

The vehicle displays its country of origin’s official license plates and has insurance coverage before entering the UAE and throughout its stay.

The exemption does not extend beyond the period permitted under the owner’s tourist or visit visa. If the owner remains in the UAE beyond that period, they must contact the licensing authority to register the vehicle.

Requirements for Vehicle Licensing Applications

Applicants for vehicle licensing must provide the following information and documents:

Proof of the owner’s identity through a digital ID.

The required documents or electronic data confirming ownership of the vehicle.

Documentation appointing the owner’s legal representative, where required by law.

A technical inspection report and an accident insurance policy for the vehicle. The insurance policy may be submitted after the technical inspection has confirmed the vehicle’s roadworthiness.