UAE prepares for self-driving cars with new rules

The Emirates Authority for Standardisation and Metrology (Esma) is preparing a set of guidelines.

As self-driving cars are soon to become permanent fixtures on the roads, the UAE government is setting rules and regulations for these vehicles.

The Emirates Authority for Standardisation and Metrology (Esma) is preparing vehicle specific guidelines that focus on infrastructure, communication systems, tests and maintenance centres, as well as the requirements for self-driving car manufacturers and owners.

Abdullah Abdul Qader Al Maeeni, Esma's director general, said: "This regulation will be applied at the federal level, which will directly affect the quality of life in general, especially in the field of transportation.

"These standards will meet the government's plans within the national agenda, and enhance the UAE's competitiveness globally."

Esma is working alongside the Federal authority for Land and Maritime Transport, the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority, the Dubai Police General Headquarters and the Dubai Roads of Transport Authority.

In November this year, Esma will host a conference on self-driving cars, and global auto manufactures and developers and federal and local decision makers will be in attendance.