On September 2, 2026, GSO released the MY2028-D2 motor vehicle technical regulation list. As an important reference for annual model certification work for exports to the Middle East market, especially Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and other countries, the changes in this annual list deserve close attention from Chinese automakers' regulatory, certification, R&D, and project teams.
I. Key New Changes in Saudi Arabian Regulations
1. Fuel Economy Regulation Upgrade: SASO 2847 Gets a New Version
In MY2027, Saudi Arabia's fuel economy label requirement corresponded to SASO 2847:2017; in MY2028, it has been updated to SASO 2847:2025.
2. CAFE Continues to Tighten: AMD1:2026 Added
Saudi SASO 2864:2022 remains the core regulation for Saudi CAFE 2024-2028, but AMD1:2026 has been added to the MY2028 list.
3. New Changes in Battery Regulations: SASO IEC 63057:2024 Added
MY2028 adds SASO IEC 63057:2024, applicable to lithium battery starting batteries. The existing standards related to lead-acid starting batteries are still retained.
4. Intelligent Connected Vehicle Regulations Continue to Expand: Radio Module + UWB Enter the List
In terms of communication and ICT regulations, Saudi Arabia has added SASO CITC GEN003:2021—Requirements for Radio Modules, and SASO CITC RI085:2021—Ultra-Wideband Equipment. At the same time, the original SASO CITC GEN002 related requirements have been replaced by SASO 3114:2026.
5. eCall Implementation Postponed, but Certification Approach Is Clearer
In MY2027, the implementation date for SASO 2944:2023 eCall was January 1, 2027; in MY2028 it has been adjusted to January 1, 2028. At the same time, an important new change in MY2028 is that PSAP testing is no longer a prerequisite for conformity certification.
6. ISO 5011 Update: Upgraded from the 2015 Version to the 2024 Version
MY2027 corresponded to SASO ISO 5011:2015; MY2028 has been updated to SASO GSO ISO 5011:2024.
Particular attention should be paid to the fact that although this standard appears in the national regulation list, the list clearly notes that it is "not applicable to Certification."
Therefore, this change is more of a technical requirement update and a focus point for supply chain/product design, and does not necessarily directly create a new model certification item.
7. Comprehensive Expansion of Active Safety + Passive Safety
Compared with 2027, MY2028 adds several regulations directly related to vehicle safety performance in Saudi Arabia's National Requirements, including:
ECE 135: Pole Side Impact, which in practice began implementation in July 2025;
ECE 140: Electronic Stability Control (ESC);
ECE 13 related heavy vehicle stability function requirements;
ECE 16: Safety-belts and Restraint Systems;
ECE 17: Seats, Their Anchorages and Head Restraints;
8. RMI Formally Enters the Regulatory Field of Vision
MY2028 adds Repair and Maintenance Information (RMI) requirements, corresponding to ISO 18541-1:2021 through ISO 18541-5:2018.
The core of this requirement is to require vehicle manufacturers to provide OBD and repair and maintenance information in a standardized manner, and to ensure fair and non-discriminatory access; at the same time, for information involving vehicle safety, security controls by relevant authorities are also required.
II. Key New Changes in UAE Regulations
1. UAE: Euro 6b Moves from "Phased" to "Full Requirement"
In MY2027, the UAE Euro 6b requirement was divided into two phases: from January 1, 2026, newly certified models (first registration) and imported vehicles need to meet the minimum Euro 6b; from July 1, 2027, all imported light and heavy vehicles need to meet the minimum Euro 6b or equivalent requirements.
By MY2028, the list directly states: all imported light and heavy vehicles must meet the minimum Euro 6b or equivalent requirements.
2. UAE Adds Hydrogen Vehicle Requirements
MY2028 adds a highly trend-setting requirement: Hydrogen Vehicle shall comply with Cabinet Resolution No. (42) for UAE Hydrogen Vehicle System.
3. UAE: Some New Energy Vehicle Models Can Use Repair Kits Instead of Spare Tires
MY2028 adds a new provision: specially designed sports vehicles, electric vehicles, and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, under the condition of meeting specific requirements and making commitments to MoIAT, may use a Repair Kit as an alternative to a spare tire.
III. Key New Changes in GCC Regulations
1. Yemen: GSO Emission Limits Add Euro 2
In the MY2028 GSO emission limits table, Yemen: Gasoline Euro 2 has been added, and Yemen Euro 2 requirements have also been added for Diesel.
2. Qatar: QS GSO 2693:2025 Added
MY2028 adds a Qatar national requirement: QS GSO 2693:2025, for AM/FM/T-DAB+ terrestrial radio receivers. Kuwait still retains KWS GSO 2693:2023.
Wanve Group can provide one-stop Gulf vehicle and parts compliance consulting services to help automakers export to the Middle East in compliance with regulations.