Dubai's commitment to becoming a global frontrunner in autonomous transportation has received a significant boost with the introduction of a new legislation specifically targeting driverless cars.
The law, enacted by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates, and ruler of Dubai, aims to reinforce his vision of transforming Dubai into a “paragon for future cities and the ultimate destination for living, working, and visiting.”
The newly implemented law delineates the responsibilities of Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in regulating the autonomous vehicle (AV) sector.
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The RTA is entrusted with the development of strategic policies that promote the integration of AVs in Dubai. This includes identifying specific AV categories and establishing operational and technical benchmarks.
Furthermore, the RTA is granted the authority to determine the permissible areas and roads for AV operation, set speed limits, and establish a comprehensive framework for safe AV usage, which may involve traffic management measures if deemed necessary.
Obtaining licenses will be obligatory for all AV operators, and the RTA will be responsible for issuing them. To receive a license, operators must meet various criteria, such as successfully completing technical tests designated by the RTA and demonstrating AVs' ability to comprehend road signs.
The new law also provides guidelines for addressing accidents, holding operators accountable for the costs associated with damages incurred.
Additionally, the legislation addresses the sale and transfer of AV ownership, which will only be allowed through RTA-approved agents in Dubai.
Violations of the new law could result in fines of up to approximately $13,600 per year.
Dubai's proactive steps in this domain are expected to capture the attention of countries worldwide. While automated transport technology has made significant advancements in recent years, regulatory frameworks have struggled to keep up. Dubai's objective is to expedite the transformation of its smart mobility sector and attract investments by implementing these measures.
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Undoubtedly, momentum is building in Dubai toward the introduction of driverless vehicles. Cruise, a subsidiary of General Motors, has already commenced testing its robotaxis in collaboration with the RTA, following the launch of mapping operations last summer. It is projected that a small fleet of Cruise's AVs will be operational in Dubai's Jumeirah area by the year's end.
Moreover, Dubai South initiated trials of the EVO.1, an autonomous electric truck, in December.
Dubai's endeavor to accelerate the deployment of electric AVs is driven by its aim to alleviate traffic congestion, reduce the number of accidents, and decrease emissions.
