UAE driver’s license at 17: nervous, excited, teenagers say, as parents are wary – News

The decision to allow teenagers aged 17 and over to get a UAE driver’s license from March 29, 2025 caused excitement among the student youth who want to gain independence. However, it has also raised concerns among parents about road safety and responsibility.

For Kinda Nemer, a 16-year-old high school senior, the announcement brought mixed emotions. “Mostly, I’m very happy to be able to get my driver’s license early,” she told Khaleej Times, noting that she can run some family errands and get to school more conveniently.

However, she also believes that complete independence comes with age. “I can’t deny that part of me is nervous. The age difference may only be one year, but I think there’s also a gap in mental maturity that can affect safe driving,” she added.

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Others, like Yara Osama, 16, another high school student, get their driver’s license at 17 “as a step toward greater autonomy.”

“I am extremely excited. I’ve always wanted to drive for a while. It means that I can go somewhere myself and help my family if they need something,” said Yara, whose main motivation for driving is not to rely on her parents for transportation.

“Most of all, I want freedom. Driving means I can manage my schedule and not wait to be dropped off or picked up,” she admitted.

Parents are more careful

While schoolchildren eagerly await the opportunity to get behind the wheel, parents show a more cautious attitude.

Rehab Abuta, Yara’s mother, acknowledges the convenience this new rule could bring, but so does she wary of responsibility it places before teenagers.

“Honestly, I have mixed feelings about this new law,” she told Khaleej Times. “On the one hand, I know it will help my daughter be more independent and give us some flexibility in family matters. But at the same time, I’m a little nervous. Driving in the UAE can be intense and 17 years old feels young to handle this level of responsibility. I would like her to have more lessons, especially on road safety, before she starts driving on her own.”

Another parent, Nedal Abdul-Jaber, believes that the experience of driving at a young age will teach responsibility, but believes that it should be done gradually. “I think overall it’s good. By allowing teenagers to drive at the age of 17, it teaches them responsibility early on,” he said, adding that he would enforce certain rules to ensure his child drives safely. “I would like to set rules like no late night driving and only going to certain places until I feel comfortable with their skills. It is important to combine freedom with security.”

Preparation for responsibility

Some students are already preparing to accept this responsibility. Saksham Uboveja, a 17-year-old car enthusiast, sees the new law as a welcome change. “The decision to allow 17-year-olds to apply for a driver’s license is an exciting and progressive step,” he said, acknowledging that adapting to Dubai’s busy roads will be essential. “I know adapting to Dubai’s roads will be extremely important.”