New Year, New Rules: Key Changes to Expect in the UAE in 2025

Shahba Mayyeri -

As the UAE prepares to welcome 2025, residents should be aware of several important updates to laws and regulations that will impact various aspects of daily life.

From changes in traffic laws to the introduction of mandatory food labeling and Emiratisation targets, these reforms are set to reshape the landscape in the new year. Here’s a closer look at some of the most anticipated changes coming into effect:

Federal Traffic Law Changes: A New Era for Drivers

One of the most significant updates is the new federal decree law on traffic regulations, which will come into effect on March 29, 2025. The decree lowers the minimum age for obtaining a driving license from 18 to 17 years old, allowing younger residents to get behind the wheel. In addition to this, the law introduces several other key provisions:

  • Noise Control: Vehicles that produce excessive noise will be banned, and the use of car horns within city limits will be restricted to situations that involve preventing danger or accidents.
  • Pedestrian Safety: Pedestrians will be prohibited from crossing roads with speed limits exceeding 80 km/h. Those who violate this rule will be held liable for any resulting civil or criminal consequences.
  • Deterrent Penalties: Serious violations such as driving under the influence of alcohol or narcotics, hit-and-run accidents, jaywalking, and driving through flood-prone valleys will incur severe penalties.
  • Transporting Hazardous Materials: A permit will now be required for transporting hazardous materials or unusual loads.

Nutrition Grading System: A Push for Healthier Choices

Starting June 1, 2025, a new mandatory nutrition grading system will be introduced in Abu Dhabi. The Nutri-Mark labeling system will assign grades from A to E to food products, indicating their nutritional value. Products that fail to display the correct grade will be withdrawn from the shelves and the concerned businesses will face fines. The first phase will apply to five food categories: baked goods, oils, dairy products, children’s food, and beverages. The initiative, aimed at tackling obesity, will provide consumers with clear, easy-to-understand information about the nutritional content of their food. More categories will be added after the initial phase.

Women's Representation on Company Boards

In a step toward greater gender equality, January 1, 2025, will mark the implementation of a new rule requiring private joint-stock companies to allocate at least one seat for women on their boards of directors. The decision, announced by the UAE Ministry of Economy, aims to boost the representation of women in key decision-making roles across the private sector.

Mandatory Pre-Marital Genetic Testing

Starting January 1, 2025, genetic testing will be a mandatory part of the premarital medical examination for all Emirati citizens planning to marry. The move is part of the UAE Genome Programme, which aims to detect hereditary diseases such as genetic epilepsy, cardiomyopathy, and cystic fibrosis. The testing, which was previously optional, will now be compulsory for citizens across the country.

Emiratisation Targets in the Private Sector

A significant expansion of the Emiratisation program will come into effect in 2025, as companies with 20 to 49 employees will now be required to hire at least two Emirati nationals. Previously, this requirement applied only to companies with 50 or more employees. Employers who fail to meet the targets will face financial penalties, with fines amounting to Dh96,000 for not achieving the 2025 targets. Additionally, companies involved in false Emiratisation practices will be subject to fines ranging from Dh20,000 to Dh100,000 for each offence.

News Source: Khaleej Times