ملخص الأخبار: Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority issued 119,188 driving licenses between January and June 2026. The total included 96,400 new licenses and 22,788 licenses exchanged from countries recognized by the UAE.
Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority issued more than 119,000 driving licenses during the first half of 2026 as demand for licensing services continued to grow across the emirate.
The total of 119,188 licenses included 96,400 new driving licenses and 22,788 licenses issued to eligible motorists exchanging recognized foreign licenses for UAE ones. RTA linked the demand to Dubai’s population growth, economic activity and position as an international destination for living, employment and investment.
Approximately 81% of the total consisted of new licenses, while about 19% were foreign-license exchanges.
Smart technology enters the driver-training journey
The increase in licensing activity is taking place alongside wider changes to Dubai’s driver-training and testing system.
RTA said it is incorporating artificial intelligence and smart technologies to improve assessment accuracy and help prepare motorists for different road and traffic conditions.
Advanced simulators allow learner drivers to experience scenarios involving rain, fog and emergency situations in a controlled environment. This gives learners an opportunity to practice their responses before encountering similar conditions on public roads.
Simulation does not replace practical road training. Classroom and behind-the-wheel training are supplemented by situations not covered in standard training.
AI, cameras and sensors support driving tests
RTA’s smart testing system uses artificial intelligence, cameras and sensors at testing yards to evaluate learner performance against standardized requirements.
The technology is intended to make assessments more accurate, consistent and transparent. It can help record how a learner completes required maneuvers and whether the driver meets the applicable testing criteria.
Human judgement and on-road competence nevertheless remain important parts of the licensing process. Learners must progress through the required training, internal assessments, parking exercises and final road test before receiving a license.
Defensive driving remains a central priority
Modern technology is only one part of Dubai’s driver-training strategy. RTA is also updating theoretical and practical programmers offered through approved driving institutes.
Training places particular emphasis on defensive and preventive driving. Learners are taught to identify potential hazards, respond to sudden changes and make decisions that reduce risks for themselves and other road users.
Mandatory theory programs cover:
- Dubai’s traffic laws and road regulations
- Speed limits and safe following distances
- Correct lane discipline
- Traffic signals and road signs
- Pedestrian rights
- Distracted driving and mobile-phone risks
- Responses to changing road and weather conditions
These subjects are designed to help new drivers understand that passing a test requires more than controlling a vehicle. Safe driving also depends on awareness, observation, patience and responsible decision-making.
Driving instructors are also assessed
RTA applies qualification programs and periodic assessments for accredited driving instructors. The authority considers instructor quality an important part of preparing competent and responsible drivers.
Driving institutes and instructors are evaluated through measures including knowledge-test results, Smart Yard performance, road-test outcomes and customer satisfaction. A consistent standard across all of the approved training providers is one of the goals that we have set for ourselves.
Eye-test network expanded across Dubai
The increase in driving-license demand follows an expansion of approved eye-testing facilities.
RTA added 100 centers during the first half of 2026, bringing the total number of approved eye-test locations in Dubai to 434. Eye-test results are electronically connected to RTA’s licensing system, allowing customers to complete parts of the application or renewal process more efficiently.
Passing an approved eye test is an essential step in obtaining or renewing a Dubai driving license because clear vision directly affects hazard recognition, distance judgement and road safety.
What does the figure mean for Dubai?
The issuance of 119,188 licenses reflects continued demand for personal mobility as Dubai’s resident and working population develops.
More licensed drivers may also increase pressure on roads, parking infrastructure, vehicle services and driver education. This makes consistent training and objective testing particularly important.
RTA’s use of artificial intelligence and simulation shows how Dubai is trying to balance growing licensing demand with its wider road-safety objectives. The long-term result will depend not only on testing technology but also on how responsibly newly licensed and experienced motorists behave after receiving their licenses.
مصادر
- Emirates News Agency — RTA issues 119,000 driving licenses — official licensing figures and details about training technology.
- Dubai RTA — Expansion of approved eye-test centers — eye-test center numbers and electronic integration.
- Gulf News — How Dubai issued 119,000 licenses — licensing process, instructor assessments and road-safety training.