5 New Rules in the UAE to Watch Out for in 2025

As the UAE enters 2025, several important rules are set to take effect, impacting residents in various aspects of daily life. From changes to driving regulations to new health-related mandates, these updates are designed to improve safety, transparency, and equality.

Here's what you need to know:

Lower Minimum Driving Age 

Starting March 29, 2025, the UAE will lower the minimum driving age to 17, allowing more young people to get behind the wheel. Along with this, new traffic regulations will ban loud vehicles and limit car horn use to situations of immediate danger. Pedestrians will also be prohibited from crossing roads with speed limits over 80km/h. Serious violations, including driving under the influence or causing accidents, will result in heavy penalties.  

Mandatory Food Labeling in Abu Dhabi

From June 1, 2025, a new food labeling system will be rolled out in Abu Dhabi. The Nutri-Mark label will grade products based on their nutritional value from A to E, with A representing the healthiest options. Initially, the system will apply to baked goods, oils, dairy, and children's food. The goal is to fight obesity by giving consumers clearer information on what they’re eating. Products found without the label or with incorrect grades will be fined and removed from store shelves.  

Women’s Representation in Private Companies

Starting January 1, 2025, all private joint-stock companies in the UAE must reserve at least one seat for women on their boards of directors. This new rule aims to increase female representation in leadership positions across the country’s private sector.  

Premarital Genetic Testing

Premarital genetic testing will be mandatory for all Emiratis getting married from January 2025. The test will screen for over 570 genetic disorders, including conditions like cystic fibrosis and genetic epilepsy. This move is part of the UAE Genome Program, which aims to reduce hereditary diseases and improve overall public health.  

Expanded Emiratisation Requirements

In 2025, Emiratisation targets will be extended to smaller businesses. Companies with 20 to 49 employees will now be required to hire at least two Emiratis. Non-compliant businesses will face fines of up to Dh108,000 starting in 2026. Additionally, companies caught participating in false Emiratisation practices could face penalties ranging from Dh20,000 to Dh100,000 per violation.  

These changes are a reflection of the UAE’s ongoing commitment to progress in areas like health, equality, and national workforce development. Residents and businesses should stay informed and prepare for these updates to ensure compliance.