Residents across the UAE can expect several major changes beginning June 1, ranging from new legal policies to increased transport-related costs and updated payment systems.
Here are five developments set to take effect next month:
1. Legal age of majority lowered to 18
The UAE will officially reduce the age of majority from 21 lunar years to 18 Gregorian years, aligning the country’s legal framework with international standards.
Under the new rule, individuals aged 18 will now have full legal authority to:
• Enter legally binding contracts
• Manage and dispose of assets
• File lawsuits or face legal action independently
• Make financial and legal decisions on their own
The shift to the Gregorian calendar is also expected to simplify legal and cross-border transactions, as it matches global documentation standards such as passports and birth certificates.
Authorities, however, emphasized that courts will continue to retain the power to intervene in cases involving misuse or abuse of the law.
2. Dubai parking fees to increase
Motorists in Dubai will begin paying higher parking fees starting June 1 after Parkin announced the implementation of a five-percent Value Added Tax (VAT) on all parking services.
The VAT will apply to:
• On-street parking
• Off-street parking
• Seasonal parking cards
• Parking permits
• Reservations
The move follows a request submitted earlier this year by Parkin to Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).
3. New wage payment rule for private companies
A new Wage Protection System (WPS) regulation will also take effect for private sector firms in the UAE.
Under the updated rule, employers are required to pay workers’ salaries on the first day of each Gregorian month for the previous month’s work. Any payment made after the first day will be considered delayed.
Companies registered with the Ministry must process salaries through the approved Wage Protection System or other authorized payment channels.
To remain compliant, companies must pay at least 85 percent of total wages due to employees within the required period.
4. Salik toll charges to include VAT
Dubai motorists will also see an increase in Salik-related charges beginning June 1, following the implementation of a five-percent VAT on toll tariffs and tag activation fees.
Despite the added charges, the Dubai-listed company clarified that the base toll tariff structure itself remains unchanged, noting that the VAT is collected on behalf of the Federal Tax Authority (FTA).
5. Cash payments at Dubai parking meters to end
Cash payments at Dubai parking meters will gradually be phased out starting June 1 as part of the city’s digital transition efforts.
Drivers will still be able to pay using Nol cards, while authorities are encouraging motorists to use the Parkin mobile application to settle parking fees and avoid additional SMS charges.
Parking payments may also be made through the Dubai Now and RTA mobile applications.
