Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has reported significant growth in eye test services required for driving licence issuance and renewal during the first half of 2026. The authority successfully expanded its network by adding 100 new facilities, marking a 30% increase and bringing the total number of approved centres across the emirate to 434.
The demand for these essential services remains high. In 2025, the RTA recorded a total of 940,728 eye test transactions, with all results submitted electronically. This momentum has continued into the current year, as 854,213 transactions were already processed during the first six months of 2026.
Eye tests are conducted with high efficiency, with the average examination taking only 5 to 10 minutes. These tests are a mandatory requirement for licence procedures, ensuring drivers possess the necessary visual clarity to maintain safety for all road users.
Results are submitted through an integrated electronic system linked directly to the RTA, which streamlines the process for customers. Facilities for these tests are widely available across Dubai, including at various driving institutes and Customer Happiness Centres.
Customers can visit any RTA-approved optical centre or ophthalmology clinic. These locations are equipped with advanced technology and staffed by qualified medical professionals who adhere to strict regulatory standards.
The combination of an expanded network and seamless electronic integration has significantly improved the customer experience. Drivers can now complete their eye test and renew their licence in a single visit, with the option to store the digital licence directly in a smartphone wallet, eliminating the need for physical copies unless specifically requested.
Source: Gulf Today
