UAE Two-Year Car Registration 2027: Who Qualifies & Key Rules

For vehicle owners in the UAE, registration has always been a once-a-year task. But from 2027, the registration rules are changing for some vehicle owners. Under the new federal traffic regulations, which take effect on 1 January 2027, licensing authorities can approve a two year registration for eligible light vehicles.

The option is published in Article 98 of Cabinet Decision No. 174 of 2026, which approves the Executive Regulation of Federal Decree-Law No. 14 of 2024 on the Regulation of Traffic.

There is a catch, though. Not every vehicle qualifies. Moreover, the longer validity of two years is not an automatic process. With that clear, here is everything you need to know about the new rule, who can benefit from it, and what it could mean for your car insurance.

Who Qualifies for Two-Year Car Registration in the UAE?

The new two-year car registration rule applies to light vehicles only. Heavy vehicles, buses, and other categories are not considered under this provision. Also, there are three conditions listed in Article 98 that you need to fulfil for the two-year registration process:

• Brand New Car at First Registration: The vehicle should be newly manufactured when it was registered for the first time. If you are buying a pre-owned car and want this option later, check how the car was first registered.
• Six Years Old or Newer: The car cannot be more than six years old. Age is counted from the date of manufacture, not from the date you bought it.
• Registered in an Individual’s Name: The vehicle must belong to an individual. Cars owned by a company or any other legal entity are not eligible.

Does Every Eligible Car Get Two-Year Registration Automatically?

No. Even if your car fulfills all three criteria, the two-year registration period is granted at the owner’s request and is subject to the licensing authority’s approval. You will need to apply for it, and the authority has the final say.

Other New UAE Traffic Rules Coming Into Effect in 2027

The two-year registration option is just one part of a much bigger update. The new executive regulation brings several other changes that every vehicle owner in the UAE should be aware of:

Five-Vehicle Limit for Individual Residents

An individual resident can register a maximum of five vehicles. The first two come under the standard provision, while an additional fee applies to registering or renewing the third, fourth, and fifth vehicle.

No Registration for Right-Hand-Drive Vehicles

Right-hand-drive vehicles cannot be registered for road use in the UAE. They may only be allowed for display purposes. Vehicles that do not meet the road safety requirements will not be registered either.

Long-Expired Registrations Can Be Removed

Under Article 117, if a vehicle’s registration has expired for more than five years, the licensing authority can remove it from the traffic records. This is not automatic and depends on the authority’s own procedures.

Suspension, Cancellation and Refusal of Registration

Registration may be suspended if you change the car’s body, color, or engine without prior approval, or if a court orders it. It can also be cancelled if the chassis or body is damaged beyond repair, or if an accident makes the car unfit for use. Authorities can also refuse renewal if the car fails the technical inspection or does not meet the basic safety requirements.

Registration Fee Exemption for Individuals with Disability

Article 104 exempts one vehicle owned by a person with a disability from the registration fees.

Updated Driving License Rules

The minimum age for a light vehicle license is 18. Licenses issued to drivers below 21 are temporary and usually valid for one year. Drivers aged 21 and above get a two-year license for the first time. On later renewals, UAE and GCC nationals get a 10-year license, while expats get a five-year license.

Nine-Hour Daily Driving Limit

No motorist will be allowed to drive for more than nine hours within a 24-hour period. This applies to all drivers, not just heavy vehicle operators.

Mandatory E-Scooter Permits

E-scooter permits will be required across the country, with the minimum age for driving set at 15. These scooters must also have working front, rear, and brake lights, along with an audible warning device.

Stricter Overtaking Rules

Drivers must overtake only from the left lane and move back to the right lane once the manoeuvre is complete. The regulation also lists six locations and conditions where overtaking is not allowed.

Wrapping Up

The two-year registration option is good news for individual owners of newer cars. After all, it could mean one less trip to the testing centre or one less renewal to remember. However, it’s not automatic and is valid only for light vehicles that meet all three conditions. Moreover, the fees and process are still to be confirmed. Until then, keep your registration and car insurance up to date, and watch for announcements from your emirate’s licensing authority.

Related Pages -

Car Registration in Dubai (2026) - New & Used Cars, RTA Fees

Car Registration in Abu Dhabi (2026) - Steps, Fees, & Documents

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