Dubai Introduces New Lane Rules for Couriers

Transport on Two Wheels: New Lane Usage Rules for Motorcycle Couriers in Dubai

Dubai is quickly responding to the increasing traffic challenges, particularly in sectors like delivery, which has experienced explosive growth in recent years. Starting November 1, new regulations will come into effect that significantly affect the movement of motorcycle couriers on the emirate's roads. The new regulations aim not only to enhance traffic safety but also to improve the traffic culture, which can be beneficial for all commuters in the long run.

What Will Change from November?

Under the new regulation, it will be prohibited for motorcycle couriers in Dubai to use the far left lanes, known as fast lanes, on roads with three or more lanes. On three- and four-lane roads, couriers cannot use the innermost lane, and on roads with five or more lanes, the two innermost lanes are off-limits to delivery motorcyclists. Exceptions include roads with one or two lanes, where they can still travel freely in any lane.

The decision was jointly announced by the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and Dubai Police, citing alarming accident statistics from recent years and the irregular behavior of some couriers.

Why Was Strictness Needed?

Fast lanes are reserved for the fastest moving vehicles, where high speeds mean any irregularity or inattention can have severe consequences. Motorcyclists—especially couriers—are at a significant disadvantage compared to other vehicles due to their vulnerability. In the event of an accident, the forces exerted on the motorcyclist and the lack of protective bodywork result in a much higher risk of serious or fatal injuries.

According to the police, there were 854 accidents in 2024 and 962 accidents in 2025 due to rule violations by motorcycle couriers. Dangerous maneuvers and speeding in the fast lane played a major role in many of these cases. Additionally, in the first nine months of 2025, more than 78,000 violations were recorded against couriers—exceeding the total number for the entire previous year.

How Will the Rule be Enforced?

The RTA announced that with the implementation of the new rule, awareness signs will be installed on designated lanes, clearly indicating routes prohibited to motorcycle couriers. These will be similar to the already known signs that restrict truck or other heavy vehicle movement in certain lanes.

Compliance with the regulation will be monitored by the police, RTA, as well as economic and tourism authorities. Communication with delivery companies will also be a focus to ensure workers are aware of the new regulations in advance.

Social Campaign and Partnership for Rule Implementation

The RTA is not only focused on monitoring but is also promoting a wide-ranging information campaign to aid in the acceptance of regulations. Beyond information available through media channels, social media, and advertising platforms, close collaboration with delivery companies will begin. The goal is for all stakeholders—including couriers—to understand the regulations' purpose and view them not as punishment but as a transportation safety enhancement.

Positive Incentive: Award for Exemplary Companies

As part of a joint initiative by the RTA and Dubai Police, the Delivery Sector Excellence Award will be introduced, which companies excelling in adherence to traffic regulations can win. This award not only highlights traffic safety but also serves as motivation for courier companies towards quality service and responsible driving.

What is Behind the Decision?

The expansion of the delivery sector in Dubai is one of the most defining trends of recent years. The increase in demand has coincided with a significant rise in the number of couriers, which has a palpable impact on urban traffic. According to the RTA, the regulation is not just a transport measure but part of a longer-term strategy aimed at improving the city's livability and aligning with global transport standards.

This decision is supported by comprehensive traffic engineering analyses and transport studies that clearly demonstrated the positive effects of excluding fast lanes on reducing road accidents.

Summary

Dubai's new lane usage regulation does not concern only couriers—it serves the interest of all commuters. Improving road safety, reducing accidents, and evolving the traffic culture all contribute to making the emirate a more livable and organized place. By complying with the rules, courier companies and their drivers can not only enhance their safety but also the quality of their services—which ultimately serves the satisfaction of all customers.

(Source of the article based on a Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) announcement.)