Dubai Tightens Road Safety with New Motorcycle Lane Restrictions
Dubai Police and the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) have announced a major new traffic regulation aimed at improving safety for delivery riders and motorists across the city.
Under the new law, delivery motorcycles are banned from using the left lanes on multi-lane roads. The rule comes after a sharp increase in traffic violations and accidents involving delivery riders, prompting authorities to take action for public safety.
What the New Rule Means
- On five-lane or wider roads, delivery riders cannot use the two leftmost lanes.
- On three- or four-lane roads, riders are restricted from the far-left “fast lane.”
- On two-lane roads or smaller, riders may use both lanes freely.
Authorities say new road signage will soon appear across Dubai to clearly mark restricted lanes, ensuring riders and drivers understand the updated rules.
Fines and Penalties for Violations
Dubai Police confirmed strict enforcement with a tiered penalty system:
- First offence: AED 500 fine
- Second offence: AED 700 fine
- Third offence: Possible suspension of licence or delivery permit
Additionally, riders speeding over 100 km/h on roads with that limit or higher will face extra fines:
- AED 200 for the first offence,
- AED 300 for the second,
- AED 400 for the third.
Why the Change Was Needed
The decision follows alarming statistics from the RTA and Dubai Police:
- Over 78,000 traffic violations by delivery riders recorded in the first nine months of 2025.
- 962 motorcycle-related accidents this year, compared to 854 in 2024.
With Dubai’s rapid growth in food and parcel deliveries, motorcycles have become a common sight on highways and inner roads. Officials say keeping them out of fast lanes will greatly reduce sudden lane changes and high-speed collisions.
Authorities Stress Education and Awareness
Beyond enforcement, the RTA and Dubai Police plan to work closely with delivery companies to educate riders about the rule. Companies will also be encouraged to monitor driver behavior, with some even rewarded under the Delivery Sector Excellence Program for compliance and safety performance.
Signboards, awareness campaigns, and company training sessions will roll out across the emirate before the full enforcement phase begins.
Impact on Residents and Delivery Services
For Dubai residents, this move aims to make roads safer and traffic smoother. Motorists can expect fewer abrupt motorcycle movements in fast lanes, while riders will operate under clearer, safer rules.
For delivery companies, however, stricter penalties mean greater responsibility ensuring all drivers are aware, trained, and compliant to avoid costly fines or permit suspensions.
Final Words
Dubai’s new delivery-rider lane rule is a major step toward safer, more organized roads. By separating high-speed lanes from smaller delivery vehicles, the city aims to reduce accidents and enhance traffic flow for everyone.
For riders safety and compliance are now more important than ever. And for residents this means a smoother, safer daily drive across the city’s busy roads.
FAQs About Dubai’s New Traffic Rule
No it specifically targets delivery motorcycles operating under company permits.
No. Even brief entry into restricted lanes is considered a violation.
Authorities have begun public awareness campaigns, with strict monitoring and fines already active.
