The UAE Cabinet, under the leadership of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and ruler of Dubai, has given the green light to a novel federal traffic law, signifying a major stride towards aligning with international transportation advancements.
As elucidated by Sheikh Mohammed, the law encompasses various modifications aimed at modernising the nation’s road management systems to adapt to the swift changes in the global transport sector, particularly in the realm of electric vehicles (EVs) and autonomous cars.
Sheikh Mohammed underscored the law’s emphasis on integrating contemporary technologies into the road infrastructure to match the rapid evolution observed in transportation globally, stating, “Today, we approved the issuance of a federal law on traffic, which includes amendments to the classification of vehicles and the use of modern technologies on the roads to keep pace with the rapid development witnessed by means of transportation globally.”
The revised legislation, reflecting the UAE’s commitment to innovation and forward-thinking transport policies, spans several crucial domains, according to the Dubai ruler.
He elaborated that the new law aligns with the burgeoning usage of self-driving vehicles, EVs, and various forms of personal transportation, leveraging the technological advancements characterising the country’s road network.
This legislative move aims to promote the wider adoption of self-driving vehicles and EVs, recognising their escalating significance in contemporary urban planning and sustainability initiatives, while also addressing diverse modes of personal transport, emphasising a comprehensive approach to mobility that harnesses state-of-the-art technology.
The UAE has long been at the forefront of embracing advanced technologies across diverse sectors, and this fresh federal traffic law reinforces the nation’s status as a frontrunner in smart transportation solutions, ensuring its road infrastructure remains among the most advanced globally.
This legislation follows extensive trials of self-driving cars on Dubai’s roads.
AI and Digital Transformation in Focus
In a separate announcement, Sheikh Mohammed disclosed that the UAE Cabinet has endorsed a broad framework for sustainable government digital transformation, alongside the adoption of a charter for the ethical use of artificial intelligence in the country, aimed at upholding the highest standards of safety and privacy and fostering a positive and enduring societal impact.
Formation of New Commerce Body for UAE
Furthermore, the Dubai ruler revealed the approval for establishing a working group, spearheaded by the UAE’s Ministry of Economy, to develop the Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry, with the aim of fortifying the economy, expanding market access, forging new global partnerships, and enabling local enterprises to venture into international markets.