Dubai Couriers Face Fast Lane Crackdown

More Than 8,000 Couriers Fined for Fast Lane Use in Dubai

Traffic regulations in Dubai are continuously evolving to keep pace with the city's rapid growth and the courier traffic generated by e-commerce. The new regulation, which came into effect on November 1, 2025, aims to enhance road safety, with a particular focus on motorcycle couriers who often find themselves in dangerous situations due to increased traffic. According to the latest data from Dubai Police, in just one month, 8,152 motorcycle couriers were fined for violating the new lane usage rules.

What is the new rule, and why is it needed?

The new regulations stipulate that motorcycle couriers cannot enter the leftmost, so-called fast lanes, typically found on highways and multi-lane main roads. On roads with more than five lanes, the two leftmost lanes are forbidden for them, while on three- or four-lane roads only the innermost lane is prohibited. On two-lane or narrower roads, they are free to choose which side to drive on.

Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and the police have previously indicated that these measures serve the safety of not only the couriers but all road users. In the fast lanes, vehicles move at significantly higher speeds, making the presence of a motorcyclist extremely dangerous — especially in cases of sudden lane changes or abrupt braking.

Who is most affected?

The regulation primarily affects motorcycle couriers who deliver food, packages, or other online-ordered goods to homes. This sector in Dubai has exploded in recent years, especially since the pandemic. The pressure to quickly fulfill orders has often driven motorcyclists to disregard traffic regulations.

According to the police, the vast majority of the more than 8,000 cases resulted from motorcyclists traveling on expressways, not following road markings, and ignoring instructions and prohibition signs.

What is the penalty?

Each such violation incurs a fine of 500 dirhams. However, the police emphasized that their goal is not punishment, but prevention. In line with this, they have launched various awareness campaigns, with posters, media content, and close cooperation with courier service companies. The aim is for all motorcyclists to know and adhere to the new traffic rules.

New signs to warn motorcyclists

To ensure more effective adherence to the regulation, the authorities have also installed new traffic signs. These signs specifically target commercial motorcyclists, indicating which lanes are prohibited for them. In addition, there are familiar prohibitions applicable to trucks and buses.

These visual signals help clarify the rules even for those who do not speak fluent Arabic or English. Simultaneously, the police are continually patrolling the roads, mainly the express sections, to catch rule breakers.

Why is all this important?

Motorcycle transport plays a significant role in the smooth running of daily life in Dubai. Whether ordering food, medicine, or official documents, it is often a motorcycle courier who delivers it to your door. For road safety, it is crucial that these vehicles do not endanger themselves or others.

Riding in fast lanes is particularly hazardous since there is a significant risk difference between high-speed cars and the lesser-protected motorcycles. A sudden brake or inattentive lane change can cause tragedy. The authorities emphasize that violating the rules is not merely a legal issue but can also be a matter of life and death.

Other Emirates Follow Suit

Traffic regulation changes are not only happening in Dubai. Sharjah introduced similar measures on November 1. There, rightmost lanes have been designated for heavy vehicles and buses, and motorcyclists are also regulated: on four-lane roads, only the two right lanes can be used, on three-lane roads the middle and right lanes, and on two-lane roads only the right lane. These standardizations contribute to a consistent and predictable regulatory system within the Emirates.

Closing Thoughts

Regulating traffic is not only about penalties but about shared responsibility. Dubai police's efforts focus on reducing road accidents and protecting the lives of motorcycle couriers. Following the rules is not just an obligation but a guarantee of safety. In the future, it will be important for every road user to know and accept the changed traffic environment, whether as a driver or as a recipient awaiting a package.

(Source of article: Dubai Police statement.)