What does every teen (EVER) look forward to in life? …Graduating school, their first relationship, prom and most of all getting that driver’s LICENCE!

Some teens just want a car and a licence for the fun of it, however, for most obtaining a driver’s licence is all about convenience, time management, cost-cutting and practicality. And vouching for youngsters was Major General Mohammad Saif Al Zafeen, Assistant to the Commander-in-Chief of Dubai Police for Operations Affairs, who is all in favour of 17 year-olds obtaining a light motor licence in the UAE, as understood from a video shared by the Dubai Police.

(Currently, the legal age to drive in the UAE is 18, however, eager teens can begin their training at the age of 17 and six months.)

The video is titled: The vision of an expert in the series of assistant commanders: Major General Mohammed Saif Al Zafeen

Maj Gen Mohammed Saif Al Zafein defended his stance on the subject by adding that, “I respect all views, but my suggestion comes from a valid point.”

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As of now, youngsters can obtain a motorcycle licence from the age of 17, however the same doesn’t apply for a driver’s licence.

Elaborating on this, the chairman of the Federal Traffic Council added that, “We know driving a motorcycle is surrounded with dangers, while driving a car is much safer.”

The senior Dubai officer further raised the point that schoolchildren finish studies at the age of 17 and have no form of transportation to get around post-schooling

Students who previously got picked and dropped by parents or school buses find themselves having to rely on cabs and motorcycles to commute around the city, which makes it not only inconvenient but also adds to the risk factor: as motorcycles are a more dangerous mode of transport in comparison to driving.

The officer further pointed out that some families are forced to shell out major bucks and hire drivers for their kids until they’re old enough to obtain a licence.

New UAE laws now permit students aged 15 and above to start working part-time jobs

With this new directive allowing students the opportunity to work and study at the same time, the convenience of having a car increases all the more.

How much does it cost to get a licence in Dubai? 

Depending on the driving institute and the number of attempts you take on the final road test, acquiring a legal driving licence in the UAE can cost between AED4.5k and AED7k+.

Learn more here.

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