DUBAI: The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and Dubai Police General Headquarters have announced a new restriction on truck movement along Emirates Road between Al Awir Street and Sharjah.
The restriction, effective from 1 January 2025, will apply during evening peak hours between 5:30PM and 8:00PM.
The initiative is part of RTA’s broader strategy to alleviate congestion, improve road safety, and enhance traffic flow during peak times.
Extended truck movement ban
This restriction builds on the expanded truck movement ban introduced in April 2024 on Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, covering both morning and evening peak hours. Trucks are permanently restricted from major roads such as Al Ittihad Street and Meydan Street. Other areas, including residential zones near Sharjah, face a 16-hour ban from 6:00AM to 10:00PM.
Major General Saif Muhair Al Mazrouei, Acting Assistant Commandant for Operations Affairs at Dubai Police, explained that the decision followed rigorous engineering and safety assessments. “The new rule aims to minimise accidents caused by the overlap of trucks and smaller vehicles during peak hours,” he said.
Driver awareness and Penalties
The Dubai Police and RTA will inform truck drivers and transport companies about the new rules via media channels, road signs, and social media campaigns. Violations will result in fines, and as of this year, 792 violations have been recorded for non-compliance with truck movement restrictions.
This measure is expected to reduce traffic accidents and congestion while promoting environmental sustainability. Lower congestion will lead to reduced fuel consumption and emissions.
Truck rest areas
To support truck drivers, the RTA has been implementing a developmental plan for rest areas in collaboration with private entities since mid-2023. These facilities, covering over 300,000 square metres, can accommodate approximately 1,000 heavy vehicles.
The rest areas feature comprehensive amenities such as refuelling stations, motels, maintenance workshops, and dining facilities. The aim is to ensure the safety and comfort of truck drivers while maintaining smooth freight operations.
Hussain Al Banna, CEO of the Traffic and Roads Agency at RTA, urged drivers and transport companies to comply with the restrictions. He highlighted the importance of using alternative routes or waiting at rest areas during restricted hours to avoid penalties.