Ras Al Khaimah has issued a new law to regulate the operation of autonomous vehicles, reinforcing its vision to become a leader in smart and sustainable mobility.

The law, issued by H.H. Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, establishes clear rules for the use of self-driving vehicles in the emirate. It aims to ensure safety, data protection, and innovation within a robust legal framework.

It designates the Ras Al Khaimah Transport Authority (RAKTA) as the competent authority to regulate autonomous vehicle operations, including setting legal and technical standards, overseeing data governance and cybersecurity, and defining the responsibilities of operators and users. The legislation also mandates continuous digital monitoring systems and periodic reporting to ensure compliance with safety and quality standards.

Eng. Esmaeel Hasan Al Blooshi, Director General of RAKTA, said the law marks a strategic step toward enhancing road safety and ensuring the safe operation of autonomous vehicles.

The law introduces public safety requirements to reduce human error, including automatic transition to a safe mode in case of system failure, connectivity with secure control centers, and transparent operational and incident records. It also ensures accessibility for all segments of society, including People of Determination, and emphasizes public awareness through campaigns, guidelines and educational materials.

The legislation aims to strengthen Ras Al Khaimah’s standing in autonomous mobility while fostering investment, research and development in artificial intelligence and smart transport solutions, alongside safeguards for lives, property and data.

The law takes effect from the date of its issuance and publication in the Official Gazette, with RAKTA responsible for its implementation and the issuance of related regulatory decisions.