Self-driving cars could hit the UAE’s roads as early as 2021.
That’s according to the Emirates Authority for Standardisation and Metrology (ESMA), which is working on a draft law for regulating autonomous vehicles.
The plan was revealed at the International Conference on Future Mobility in Dubai.
ESMA’s Director-General, Abdulla Al Maeeni, spoke to ARN News.
If the legislation is approved, the UAE could become the first country in the world to have standards around driverless vehicles.


UAE expands support for Gaza healthcare system
H.H. Sheikh Khaled approves AED1.54 billion in housing benefits
Dubai Police crack down on beggars and illegal butchers
UAE, Saudi Arabia and allies condemn Israeli minister over flotilla detainees
UAE President joins call with Trump, regional leaders to discuss Iran peace deal
UAE, UN discuss expediting access to clean water ahead of world conference
UAE delegation concludes participation in GLOBSEC Forum 2026 in Prague
UAE, Qatar discuss regional diplomacy and bilateral ties
