Heavy traffic build-up on Sheikh Zayed Road in Dubai. Crashes caused delays near Business Bay on Wednesday morning. Jeffrey E Biteng / The National
Heavy traffic build-up on Sheikh Zayed Road in Dubai. Crashes caused delays near Business Bay on Wednesday morning. Jeffrey E Biteng / The National

UAE

Mandatory medical test for motorists over 65 to be introduced in Dubai

The test will be mandatory at RTA approved hospitals before motorists can have their licences renewed.

The National staff

August 06, 2017

Medical tests will soon be mandatory for motorists aged 65 and above who wish to renew their driver licenses.

As of September 1, drivers over the age of 65 will be required to undergo medical screening at hospitals and clinics approved by the Roads and Transport Authority before renewing their licences.

The RTA said the move would increase traffic safety for all road-users.

"The test is intended to verify if motorists are free from diseases that may impact their driving abilities to the extent of posing risks to road users," said Jamal Assada, Director of Drivers Licensing at RTA’s Licensing Agency.

The licence will be valid for three years, instead of 10 years.

Approved hospitals and clinics will have access to the RTA's online licensing system to judge the medical condition of applicants for driver license renewal, said Mr Assada.

“Introducing the medical fitness as a precondition for the renewal of driver licences reflects RTA’s commitment to the life of motorists & road users comprising pedestrians and vehicles," he said.

Essentials

The flights
Emirates, Etihad and Malaysia Airlines all fly direct from the UAE to Kuala Lumpur and on to Penang from about Dh2,300 return, including taxes. 
 

Where to stay
In Kuala Lumpur, Element is a recently opened, futuristic hotel high up in a Norman Foster-designed skyscraper. Rooms cost from Dh400 per night, including taxes. Hotel Stripes, also in KL, is a great value design hotel, with an infinity rooftop pool. Rooms cost from Dh310, including taxes. 


In Penang, Ren i Tang is a boutique b&b in what was once an ancient Chinese Medicine Hall in the centre of Little India. Rooms cost from Dh220, including taxes.
23 Love Lane in Penang is a luxury boutique heritage hotel in a converted mansion, with private tropical gardens. Rooms cost from Dh400, including taxes. 
In Langkawi, Temple Tree is a unique architectural villa hotel consisting of antique houses from all across Malaysia. Rooms cost from Dh350, including taxes.