New Traffic Lane Rules in Sharjah: Lessons for Dubai

Nearly 30,000 Violations in Sharjah for Lane Use Rule Breaches – What Can Dubai Learn?

The traffic regulations in the United Arab Emirates are constantly evolving to keep pace with growing traffic and safety expectations. The latest example is observed in the emirate of Sharjah, where on November 1, 2025, a new traffic regulation was implemented specifically targeting the proper use of traffic lanes. The goal is clear: ensure the adherence to designated lanes for various vehicle categories—especially delivery motorcycles, trucks, buses, and motorcycles—which not only improves traffic order but can also save lives.

In just a few weeks, authorities recorded over 30,000 violations, clearly indicating the importance of taking this new regulation seriously. Those who violate the designated lane usage rules may face a fine of up to 1,500 dirhams and 12 black points—consequences that are particularly significant for trucks and buses.

Why is designated lane usage important?

Using designated lanes is not just a formality. Different vehicle categories—given their size, speed, acceleration capabilities, and maneuverability—are fundamentally different, so if they used the same lane, it would increase the risk of accidents. Trucks accelerate and brake more slowly and have more blind spots. If these vehicles travel in the leftmost fast lane, for example, it is not only against the rules but can also be dangerous.

According to the newly introduced rule, the far-right lane is exclusively for heavy vehicles such as trucks and buses. Motorcycles are not allowed to enter the far-left lane, which is used for faster traffic and overtaking, but can only drive in the two right lanes if the road has four lanes. On three-lane roads, they may use the far-right and middle lanes, whereas on two-lane roads, only the right lane is permitted.

This kind of differentiated regulation is not new in the more developed cities of the world—for example, it is applied on certain routes in Dubai—but Sharjah has now paired its implementation with stricter controls and digital surveillance.

Smart radars and cameras – a new level of rule enforcement

Enforcing the rules is not only dependent on the presence of patrol cars. The Sharjah police also deploy modern technologies: intelligent radars and high-resolution cameras are used for traffic monitoring. These devices can automatically detect when a vehicle enters a lane not designated for it and record the data—including license plate, time, lane, and vehicle category. Therefore, offenders receive notification and are fined without direct police interaction.

This system not only makes rule enforcement more efficient but also reduces the possibility of disputes and misunderstandings on the spot. It also serves as a warning: the emirate does not tolerate rule violations and uses all available means to make transportation safer.

What does this mean for Dubai?

In the city of Dubai, where traffic density is high and new vehicles appear on the roads daily due to tourism and rapid urbanization, it would be crucial to follow Sharjah's example. While Dubai has already been at the forefront of transportation technology developments, such as the Salik toll system or the Metro system, the growing fleet of delivery motorcycles and the congestion on fast roads make it worth enforcing similar lane-specific rules more strictly.

Proper allocation of lanes for public transport vehicles, trucks, and delivery motorcycles would not only reduce jams but also decrease the number of accidents. Motorcycle couriers working in the city—often under time pressure—are frequently prone to irregular lane changes, speeding, or traveling in the far-left lane, which may be prohibited for them. Stricter enforcement and precise designation would be in everyone's interest.

Fines are not the goal but a tool

Many feel that fines of this nature serve only as a means of revenue collection. This is a mistaken approach. The goal is prevention: if someone knows that a rule violation automatically costs them 1,500 dirhams and 12 black points—which could lead to suspension of their driver's license—they are much more likely to follow the rules.

Traffic fines do not primarily serve as treasury revenue but aim to prevent accidents. A poorly executed lane change, a motorcycle in the wrong place, or a truck in an acceleration lane can be fatal—not just for the driver but also for others.

Summary

The lane usage regulation introduced by Sharjah and the modern technology monitoring its compliance sends a clear message: traffic safety is non-negotiable. More than 30,000 violations in a few weeks show that there is still much to be done in terms of driver awareness—but strict fines, camera surveillance, and clear communication from authorities may help change that.

For Dubai, this is a strong signal: the digitalization of traffic systems and the consistent enforcement of rules are not just modernization goals but directly contribute to the city's livability, safety, and efficiency. The future of transportation lies not only in self-driving cars but also in responsible people—who know where they belong in traffic lanes.

(The article is based on a statement from Sharjah Police.)