2025 is shaping up to be an epic year packed with mind-blowing entertainment, but it’s not just the fun stuff that’s changing. Big updates to the country’s laws and regulations are coming too, and they’re set to impact our everyday lives. Keep reading to get the lowdown on everything you need to know.
1. Stricter Federal Traffic Laws
Save the date: March 29, 2025! That’s when a new federal decree on traffic rules will officially take effect.
Here are the key changes you need to know:
- Younger Drivers: The minimum age for getting a driver’s license will drop to 17.
- Noise Limits: Noisy vehicles will be banned, and honking in cities will only be allowed in emergency situations to avoid accidents or danger.
- Pedestrian Safety: You won’t be able to cross roads where speed limits exceed 80 km/h. Ignoring this could result in hefty fines or even criminal charges.
- Tougher Penalties: Major offenses like driving under the influence, hit-and-runs, and reckless driving in dangerous zones will come with “deterrent penalties” to really make an impact.
- Hazardous Transport: Transporting dangerous goods or oversized loads will require special permits.
2. Increased Emiratisation Targets
Starting in 2025, new Emiratisation regulations will apply to smaller companies with 20 to 49 employees.
Hiring Requirement: These companies must hire at least two Emirati nationals.
Non-Compliance Penalties:
- AED 96,000 fine in 2025 for failing to meet the target.
- AED 108,000 fine in 2026 for continued non-compliance.
False Practices: Companies caught faking Emiratisation efforts will face fines ranging from AED 20,000 to AED 100,000.
3. Female Representation On Company Boards
Starting January 1, 2025, private joint-stock companies will be required to have women represented on their boards.
At Least One Seat: Companies must allocate a seat for a woman on the board once the current term ends.
Goal: This initiative is designed to boost diversity and create more opportunities for women in leadership positions.
4. Mandatory Genetic Testing
Starting January 1, 2025, genetic testing will be mandatory as part of premarital screenings for Emirati citizens.
Why It Matters: Genetic testing can identify more than 570 hereditary conditions, including epilepsy, cystic fibrosis, and muscular atrophy.
UAE Genome Programme: This initiative is part of the broader effort to detect and prevent genetic diseases, ultimately improving long-term health outcomes across the population.
5. Nutrition Labelling
Starting June 1, 2025, Abu Dhabi will introduce a new labeling system requiring certain foods to display their nutritional information with the Nutri-Mark.
Here’s what you can expect:
- Grading System: Foods will be rated from A (most nutritious) to E (least nutritious).
- Initial Focus: The first items to be labeled include baked goods, oils, dairy products, children’s food, and beverages.
- Enforcement: Products without the correct Nutri-Mark labels or with inaccurate grades will be removed from shelves, and fines will be imposed.
- Tackling Obesity: This initiative is designed to make healthier choices easier for everyone, with more food categories to be added in later phases.
These federal law updates are set to reshape 2025 in meaningful ways, improving our everyday lives across the UAE!