Abu Dhabi shifts driving, vehicle licensing services from police to integrated transport centers

Abu Dhabi: In a major move, Abu Dhabi’s driver and vehicle licensing system will now be handled by the emirate’s traffic regulator, municipalities and the Ministry of Transport’s Integrated Transport Center (ITC).

The Abu Dhabi Government Media Office announced that the services were previously managed by Abu Dhabi Police, and that the transformation aims to create a unified and integrated traffic permit ecosystem across the emirate.

ITC’s service extensions are designed to enhance user experience and increase satisfaction. According to the announcement, the transformation is part of a comprehensive plan to further develop the transport sector in the emirate of Abu Dhabi and increase the competitiveness of all sectors of the local economy.

ITC will work with Abu Dhabi Police General to ensure business continuity and provide vehicle and driver license services while the transition is finalized and implemented. In the meantime, ITC has ensured that all services will continue to be available and accessible through existing licensing centers and digital channels until the transfer is complete.

“[The ITC assures the] During this process, the continuous acquisition of vehicle and driver licenses with the same quality and level of service… close cooperation with all relevant strategic partners has always been a top priority,” the ITC said in a statement.

However, authorities did not reveal an exact timeline for the shift.

Currently, drivers and vehicle owners must apply for a driver’s license or renew their vehicle’s license at a driver’s license center designated by the Abu Dhabi Police. On the other hand, renewal of individual driver’s licenses can be done through the Abu Dhabi government’s TAMM platform.

The ITC already regulates most other transport-related procedures and permits in the emirate. For example, it operates a public bus network in the emirate and also regulates taxis, taxi franchisees and ride-sharing platforms. Last year, authorities also established a new platform called Asateel to better monitor the operation and movement of heavy vehicles in the emirate. In addition, it manages the traffic system through Darb road tolls and Mawaqif parking management system. Over the past few years, the ITC has made real strides in rolling out driverless cars across the emirate, mainly in the capital, Yas and Saadiyat islands, to make public transport greener and more sustainable.

Meanwhile, the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT), to which ITC belongs, develops and regulates the emirate’s road network.