UAE Implements Right-Lane Rule for Riders

New Traffic Rules in UAE: Delivery Riders Restricted to Right Lanes

The UAE has introduced a new traffic regulation that brings significant changes for delivery motorcyclists. According to the new rules, it has become mandatory for delivery riders in Ajman to use only the right-side lanes and they are prohibited from entering the fast, left-side lanes. This regulation had already been in effect in Dubai and Abu Dhabi and now Ajman has joined this initiative.

What Changes Do These Rules Bring?

The aim of the new regulation is to enhance road safety and reduce the risk of accidents in the left lanes of high-speed roads. The rules are as follows:

Three-lane roads: delivery riders can only use the two right-side lanes, and the use of the left lane is prohibited.

Four-lane roads: In Ajman, riders cannot enter the two left lanes and can travel only in the two right lanes.

These rules not only apply to Ajman but are also strictly enforced in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, where they have been in effect for years.

Regulations in Dubai and Abu Dhabi: Emphasis on Safety

Dubai has been implementing this restriction since 2021, focusing not just on lane usage but also on the speed of motorcyclists. In the city, the maximum allowed speed for delivery riders is 100 km/h, with no exceptions.

In Abu Dhabi, it was announced in 2023 that on roads with speed limits above 100 km/h, riders can only use the right lanes:

Three-lane roads: only the two right lanes can be used, the left lane is prohibited.

Four-lane roads: the two right lanes are allowed.

Five-lane roads: here, they can move in the three right lanes, the left two cannot be used.

Violations and Penalties

The violation of these rules carries serious consequences:

The first offense may result in a fine of up to 700 dirhams.

Upon the third offense, the rider may lose their delivery license, which could be a significant disadvantage for both the courier and their employer.

The new regulations aim not only to increase road safety but also to minimize accidents and ensure smooth traffic flow. Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and now Ajman strictly monitor lane usage by motorcyclists, ensuring that faster vehicles can travel unhindered in the inner lanes.

Impact of Regulation on Traffic and Delivery

Thanks to the restriction:

The number of accidents, particularly in high-speed left lanes, decreases.

Riders can do their work in safer conditions.

Traffic flow becomes smoother as faster vehicles are not obstructed.

However, for courier companies, this may also present a challenge, as obeying new rules might lead to increased delivery times on some busy routes. Nevertheless, traffic safety is the primary concern, and the long-term goal is to make roads safer for all commuters.

Conclusion

Ajman has joined Dubai and Abu Dhabi in implementing right-lane-only driving for delivery riders. This measure clearly aims to reduce the number of accidents and make traffic safer. High fines and license revocation can be expected for those who break the rules, making adherence to new regulations worthwhile for everyone.

(Source of the article: Based on a governmental announcement from Ajman.)