13 New Rules, Fees, and Technologies Coming to the UAE in 2025

 

1. New UAE Traffic Law

Driving age reduced and stricter penalties introduced
A new federal decree-law on traffic regulations will take effect on March 29, 2025. Key changes include:

• Driving age lowered to 17 years.

• Regulations introduced for e-bikes and e-scooters.

• Penalties updated:

  • Up to AED 100,000 fine and/or jail for drunk driving.

    • Stricter punishments for jaywalking.

    • Two-year jail term and AED 100,000 fine for hit-and-run cases causing injuries.

2. Air Taxis in Abu Dhabi and Dubai

Electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) flights begin
By 2025, air taxis will become operational, drastically reducing commute times:

• Abu Dhabi: 60- to 90-minute car rides will be replaced with 10- to 20-minute flights.

• Dubai: Four vertiport stations near major hubs like Dubai International Airport and Palm Jumeirah will launch, with flights cutting a 45-minute drive to just 10 minutes.

• Completion of Al Maktoum Bridge Maintenance

Improved road connectivity in Dubai
The long-awaited maintenance work on Al Maktoum Bridge is expected to conclude by mid-January 2025, easing traffic flow.

4. Smart Travel System Expansion in Abu Dhabi

Biometric-enabled travel processes
Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport will roll out its biometric smart travel system for all airlines by 2025. Passengers can complete immigration, shop, and access lounges without presenting boarding passes or passports.

5. Expanded Ban on Single-Use Plastics

Environmental protection measures enhanced
Dubai’s ban on single-use plastics will now include:

• Plastic stirrers, table covers, and straws.

• Styrofoam cups and containers.

6. Digital Nol Cards for All Phones

Simplifying public transportation payments
The digital nol card will be accessible to all phone users in 2025, not just Samsung and Huawei users. It will also serve as a payment method for grocery shopping, parking, and public park entries.

7. Nutri-Mark Label in Abu Dhabi

Healthier food choices made easier
The new ‘Nutri-Mark’ label will grade the nutritional value of grocery items, helping consumers make better choices. Initially launching in Abu Dhabi by mid-2025, the initiative will later expand nationwide.

8. Free Wi-Fi at Bus Stops

Improved connectivity for commuters
Dubai’s RTA will extend free Wi-Fi to more public bus stations in 2025, enhancing convenience for passengers.

9. Variable Salik Toll Pricing

Dynamic road tolls to ease congestion
Starting February 2025, Salik charges will vary:

• AED 6 during weekday peak hours.

• AED 4 during off-peak hours and all day on Sundays.

10. New Parking Charges in Dubai

Revised fees for different parking categories
From March 2025, parking spaces will be categorized as standard, premium, or grand event parking. Rates will differ based on peak and off-peak hours, with free parking overnight and on Sundays.

11. Updated EV Charging Fees

Transparent pricing for electric vehicle users
The UAE’s first government-owned EV charging network will introduce new tariffs in January 2025:

• AED 1.20 per kWh for DC chargers.

• AED 0.70 per kWh for AC chargers.
  A mobile app will assist users in locating chargers and making payments.

12. Sewerage Fee Increase in Dubai

Phased rise over three years
Starting January 2025, sewerage fees in Dubai will increase to 1.5 fils per gallon, reaching 2.8 fils per gallon by 2027.

13. Introduction of Smart Rental Index

Enhancing transparency in real estate
Dubai Land Department (DLD) will launch a new Smart Rental Index in January 2025. Using real-time data, this tool will ensure fair and transparent rental market practices.

As these changes roll out, they aim to improve quality of life, enhance sustainability, and support the UAE’s vision for a smarter future.

 

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