UAE’s new 2027 traffic rules set 9-hour driving limit in 24 hours to prevent fatigue

Drivers in the UAE will be subject to a maximum driving limit of nine hours within a 24-hour period under new federal traffic regulations coming into effect on January 1, 2027. The regulations also prohibit motorists from driving when fatigue or exhaustion affects their ability to operate a vehicle safely.

The requirement is outlined in Article 7, paragraph 2, of Cabinet Decision No. 174 of 2026, which introduces the executive regulations of Federal Decree-Law No. 14 of 2024 on traffic regulation.

Nine-Hour Driving Limit Applies to All Motorists

The new regulation establishes general responsibilities for vehicle drivers and is not restricted to truck drivers or professional motorists. Under the provision, motorists must not exceed nine hours of driving within a 24-hour period.

The regulation also allows the Federal Traffic Council to revise the driving-hours limit when necessary.

Importantly, the nine-hour limit does not mean drivers can continue travelling if they feel exhausted. Anyone experiencing fatigue that affects their ability to drive safely must stop, even if they have not reached the maximum permitted driving time.

UAE Records 20 Fatigue-Related Road Accidents in 2025

According to Ministry of Interior figures, the UAE recorded 20 traffic accidents linked to driver fatigue and drowsiness in 2025.

The issue was highlighted again on October 29 when Dubai Police warned motorists against driving while tired following an incident involving a truck on Emirates Road (E611), heading towards Abu Dhabi.

According to police, the truck driver reportedly fell asleep at the wheel, lost control and crashed into a metal safety barrier. The driver sustained minor injuries and received treatment at the scene.

Brigadier Juma Salem bin Suwaidan, Director of the General Department of Traffic at Dubai Police, urged motorists to get enough rest before starting their journeys. He also advised drivers to stop whenever they experience tiredness or drowsiness.

Warning Signs of Driver Fatigue to Watch For

RoadSafetyUAE highlights that fatigue can be particularly dangerous because it affects a driver's ability to recognise how tired they actually are.

Poor-quality sleep and extended periods behind the wheel are among the common causes of driving fatigue.

Some warning signs motorists should never ignore include:

• Repeated yawning and sore or heavy eyes.

• Delayed reactions and reduced concentration.

• Difficulty keeping the head upright.

• Drifting between lanes or struggling to maintain a consistent speed.

• Difficulty remembering the last few kilometres travelled.

Recognising these symptoms early can help drivers avoid dangerous situations on the road.

Road Safety Tips to Prevent Fatigue-Related Accidents

RoadSafetyUAE recommends getting seven to eight hours of uninterrupted sleep before starting a journey. Motorists should also take regular 15-minute breaks at least once every two hours.

Drivers who begin feeling sleepy should pull over at a safe location and rest before continuing their journey.

The organisation also warns that listening to loud music or opening windows for fresh air may provide only temporary relief from tiredness. Sleep remains the only effective way to recover from fatigue.

What the New UAE Driving Rules Mean for Motorists

The new nine-hour driving limit highlights the UAE's continued focus on improving road safety and reducing accidents caused by exhaustion.

From January 1, 2027, motorists will need to follow the prescribed driving-hour limit while remaining alert to signs of fatigue throughout their journeys. Following these requirements, getting sufficient rest and taking regular breaks will be important steps towards making UAE roads safer for everyone.