Abu Dhabi awards driver training and testing to Yas Driving Academy

The Integrated Transport Centre (ITC), an affiliate of the Department of Municipalities and Transport, has signed a strategic concession agreement with Yas Driving Academy to manage and operate driver training and testing services in Abu Dhabi.

Announced on 21 January 2026, the agreement forms part of ITC’s wider programme to strengthen public–private partnerships and raise road safety and service standards across the emirate.

New concession strengthens driver training standards

Under the concession, Yas Driving Academy will assume responsibility for delivering a full range of driver education and assessment services in line with technical and operational standards approved by ITC.

The scope of services includes both theoretical and practical driver training across all vehicle categories, as well as the conduct of internal driving tests. Training and testing will be delivered through a network of accredited centres located across different areas of the emirate, ensuring broad geographic coverage and accessibility.

In addition to core driver training, the agreement includes the provision of advanced and specialised programmes. These include desert driving and other specialised driving courses designed to meet the needs of different driver segments and reflect the UAE’s varied road and terrain conditions.

The concession places particular emphasis on inclusivity, with specific provisions to support People of Determination. Yas Driving Academy has committed to providing fully equipped vehicles and modern training tools, overseen by highly qualified instructors, to support safe and independent mobility for all learners.

Digital integration is a central element of the agreement. Yas Driving Academy’s systems will be fully integrated with ITC’s central database, supported by interactive dashboards that allow ITC to monitor operations and performance indicators in real time.

According to ITC, this integration will enhance transparency across testing and licensing processes, reduce customer journey times and standardise training outcomes in line with Abu Dhabi’s smart and sustainable transport objectives.

Deal aligns with transport vision

Abdulla Saleh Abdulla, Acting Executive Director of the Drivers and Vehicles Licensing Sector at ITC, said: “This agreement reflects our commitment to advancing the driver qualification and testing ecosystem in line with the highest approved standards, thereby enhancing road safety and elevating the quality of services delivered to customers.

“Through such strategic partnerships, we seek to adopt best-in-class operational practices and advanced technologies that align with Abu Dhabi’s vision for the continued development of the transport sector.”

Roger Venn, Chief Executive Officer of Yas Driving Academy, said: “We are proud to partner with ITC in advancing Abu Dhabi’s commitment to world-class road safety and mobility standards. This authorisation is a testament to the trust placed in YDA’s vision to deliver excellence through innovation, technology, and a student-centric approach. Together, we aim to empower new drivers with the skills, confidence, and awareness needed to make every journey safer and smarter.”

ITC said the agreement supports its goal of creating a flexible legislative and regulatory environment that attracts specialised private-sector expertise. The initiative is expected to improve customer experience, strengthen road safety outcomes and contribute to the emirate’s long-term transport strategy.