UAE to Allow Two-Year Vehicle Registration from 2027

New facility open to both UAE nationals and expatriates, subject to specific conditions

Abu Dhabi: A new UAE federal traffic regulation will allow eligible light vehicles to be registered for two years starting January 1, 2027. Currently, vehicle registration is generally issued for one year. Under the new rule, vehicle owners can request a two-year registration period, subject to approval by the relevant licensing authority. To qualify, the vehicle must have been brand new when first registered, must not be more than six years old from its manufacturing date, and must be registered under an individual's name. Vehicles registered in the name of companies will not be eligible.

The new facility will be available to both UAE nationals and expatriates without any distinction. However, meeting the eligibility conditions does not guarantee automatic approval, as permission from the relevant authority will still be required. Authorities have not yet clarified whether additional fees will apply for the two-year registration option.

The new regulation also prohibits the registration of right-hand-drive vehicles for use on UAE roads. In addition, the relevant authorities will have the power to remove vehicles from traffic records if their registration has expired for more than five years.