UAE: 7 key rules and fees for 2025 you should know
From traffic laws to parking charges, discover what's changing this year
As the UAE ushers in 2025, residents and visitors are set to experience significant changes across various sectors.
From transportation reforms to sustainability initiatives, here are seven key updates that will impact daily life.
UAE traffic law
Effective March 29, 2025, the UAE’s revised traffic law introduces major changes:
- Minimum driving age reduced to 17 years.
- Up to Dh100,000 fine and/or jail for drunk driving.
- Stricter penalties for jaywalking and hit-and-run cases, with injuries incurring up to two years in jail.
- New rules for e-bikes and e-scooters ensure safer integration into traffic.
Extended plastic ban
Dubai’s comprehensive plastic ban now includes plastic stirrers, Styrofoam containers, straws, and single-use cups. These changes are part of the UAE's larger goal to reduce environmental impact and encourage sustainability.
Restaurants will transition to eco-friendly alternatives by mid-2025.
Digital nol cards for all smartphones
The digital nol card initiative will be expanded in 2025, allowing all smartphone users to access Dubai’s public transportation seamlessly.
The nol card can also be used for shopping, parking payments, and entry to public parks.
Currently limited to Samsung and Huawei devices, it will soon support all major smartphone platforms.
New Salik toll charges
Starting February 2025, Dubai’s variable toll pricing system will come into effect:
- Weekday peak hours (6 AM–10 AM, 4 PM–8 PM): Dh6 per crossing.
- Weekday off-peak hours and Sundays: Dh4 per crossing.
Cross Al Safa or Al Mamzar gates multiple times within an hour? You’ll only be charged once.
Parking tariffs in Dubai
From March 2025, parking charges in Dubai will reflect a new tiered structure:
- Peak hours (8 AM–10 AM, 4 PM–8 PM): Dh6/hour for premium spots, Dh4/hour for standard spaces.
- Free parking remains overnight (10 PM–8 AM) and all day on Sundays.
- Event parking zones see a hike to Dh25/hour.
New EV charging fees
The UAE’s first government-owned EV charging network, UAEV, has announced revised tariffs effective January 2025:
- DC chargers: Dh1.20/kWh (plus VAT).
- AC chargers: Dh0.70/kWh (plus VAT).
A new app will assist EV users in locating stations and making payments seamlessly.
Sewerage fee in Dubai
Dubai Municipality will increase sewerage charges for the first time in a decade:
- 1.5 fils per gallon in 2025, rising to 2.8 fils by 2027.
The phased increment ensures residents gradually adapt to the higher rates. Despite the hike, charges remain below the global average.