What Is Yas Driving Academy?

Yas Driving Academy (YDA) is an authorized driver training institute in Abu Dhabi, operating under a concession agreement with the Integrated Transport Centre (ITC) — the government body responsible for driver licensing. YDA offers training for both light vehicle and motorcycle licenses.

YDA combines instructor-led training with modern tools including advanced driving simulators. Whether you are a complete beginner or an experienced driver on the Golden Chance pathway, YDA provides structured programs designed for UAE road conditions.

YDA Courses and Prices

YDA offers three programs. Here are the current fees:

Light Vehicle — Beginner (AED 4,201)

Component	Details	Cost
Theory training	4 sessions (45 min each)	AED 819
Theory exam	Computer-based test	AED 200
Practical training	13 driving sessions	AED 1,774.50
Simulator training	3 sessions (20 min each)	AED 945
Practical exam	Final driving test	AED 200
Admin fee	—	AED 262.50
Total		AED 4,201

Light Vehicle — Golden Chance (AED 1,386.50)

For experienced drivers with a valid license from their home country:

Component	Details	Cost
Theory training	4 sessions	AED 819
Simulator training	2 sessions	AED 367.50
Theory exam	Computer-based test	AED 200
Total		AED 1,386.50

Note: Golden Chance candidates also need a minimum of 6 hours of external road training with an approved instructor before the final road test. This cost is separate from the YDA package above. For full eligibility requirements and the step-by-step process, read our complete Golden Chance guide.

Motorcycle — Beginner (AED 3,633.50)

Same structure as the light vehicle beginner program, with motorcycle-specific practical training and 3 advanced simulator sessions.

YDA's 7-Step Path to Your License

Eye test — via the TAMM app or an Abu Dhabi Police centre (bring your Emirates ID)
Open a traffic file — apply at tamm.abudhabi (government fee ~AED 200)
Theory training — 4 sessions covering road rules, driver mindset, and vehicle basics. Available on-premises or via e-learning. See our Abu Dhabi theory test study guide to prepare.
Practical training — 13 sessions at YDA, from basic maneuvers to advanced driving
Simulator training — 3 sessions in controlled, realistic driving scenarios
External road training — minimum 6 hours on public roads with an approved instructor
Final road test — examination at the Licensing Department

Step 6 is important: even as a YDA student, you need external road practice with a private instructor before your final test. This is where you build familiarity with real traffic conditions and actual test routes. Browse verified private instructors in Abu Dhabi to find one in your area.

Locations and Hours

Yas Marina Circuit (practical + theory)

Address: Yas Marina Circuit, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
Hours: Saturday to Thursday, 8 AM – 6 PM and 9 PM – 3 AM
Closed: Friday

Al Wahda Mall (theory + registration)

Address: Shop E271-E272, Al Wahda Mall New Extension, Abu Dhabi
Hours: Monday to Sunday, 9 AM – 6 PM and 7 PM – 1 AM

Phone: 600 593 223 (both locations)

Key Features

Driving simulators: Realistic scenarios in a safe, controlled environment — useful for building early confidence before getting on the road
Multilingual instructors: Arabic, English, Urdu, and Malayalam
YDA Drive app: Manage your training journey on iOS or Android — registration, scheduling, progress tracking, and payment
Flexible hours: Late-night sessions until 3 AM (Yas Marina) and 1 AM (Al Wahda Mall)
Manual and automatic: Both transmission types available

How to Register

Visit drive.yda.ae or download the YDA Drive app
Create your account and select your program (light vehicle or motorcycle)
Upload required documents (Emirates ID, eye test certificate)
Choose your preferred branch and schedule
Complete payment through the portal or app

You can also register in person at either branch during operating hours.

Need Extra Road Practice Before Your YDA Test?

YDA's programme requires 6 hours of external road training. Browse verified private instructors in Abu Dhabi who specialise in YDA test routes.

Browse Verified Instructors →

YDA vs Emirates Driving Company (EDC)

YDA is one of two authorized driving schools in Abu Dhabi, alongside Emirates Driving Company (EDC). EDC has been the established provider since 2000 with its main campus in Mussafah. YDA is the newer option with a technology-driven approach.

For a detailed side-by-side comparison of both schools including pricing, locations, and features, read our full driving school comparison.

Tips for New YDA Students

Book your eye test first — you cannot start training without it
Open your traffic file on TAMM before registering at YDA to avoid delays
Download the YDA Drive app before your first visit to streamline the process
Budget for Step 6 — the 6 hours of external road training with a private instructor is not included in YDA's package price
Choose your location wisely — theory is available at both branches, but practical training is only at Yas Marina Circuit

Not sure which license pathway applies to you? Take our 30-second eligibility quiz to find your pathway, estimated cost, and timeline.

Yas Driving Academy (YDA) Abu Dhabi: Courses, Prices & How to Register (2026)

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