Picture for illustrative purposes only. ARCHIVE

Authorities in Dubai have announced an extension of truck movement restrictions on Emirates Road and other major roads to ease traffic congestion and reduce accidents. Starting January 1, trucks are banned on the section of Emirates Road between Al Awir Street and Sharjah during evening peak hours from 5:30pm to 8pm, according to the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and Dubai Police General Headquarters. This new restriction adds to the ongoing truck ban on Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road during both morning and evening peak hours. The ban on this major route has been in effect since April 2024, with timings from 6:30am to 8:30am and 5:30pm to 8pm.

Why the ban is necessary

The newly announced evening ban on Emirates Road is expected to particularly benefit motorists traveling to Sharjah during peak hours. Residents commuting between Sharjah and Dubai have long complained of delays caused by heavy truck traffic. “The primary objective is to minimize traffic accidents caused by the overlap between trucks and smaller vehicles and to ease congestion on vital roads,” said Major General Saif Muhair Al Mazrouei, Acting Assistant Commandant for Operations Affairs at Dubai Police. Authorities will rely on surveillance cameras and road monitoring systems to ensure compliance. Violators will face fines and potential suspension of their truck permits. Dubai Police reported issuing 792 fines this year to truck drivers who failed to comply with the existing movement ban.

Comprehensive restrictions across Dubai

The RTA enforces truck movement bans on several key roads at varying times: Al Ittihad Street, Meydan Street, and all crossings: Trucks are permanently banned. Sheikh Zayed Road and residential areas near Sharjah, including Al Mizhar, Al Muhaisnah, and Oud Al Muteena: Trucks are restricted for 16 hours daily, from 6am to 10pm. Airport Street, Oman Street, and Damascus Street: Trucks are banned during peak hours, including 6:30am to 8:30am, 1pm to 3pm, and 5:30pm to 8pm.

More changes coming in 2025

Starting in 2025, the truck ban during evening peak hours will be expanded to additional sections of Emirates Road, further addressing congestion concerns in the rapidly growing urban areas near Sharjah. Authorities advise all road users to stay updated on truck ban timings and plan their routes accordingly. ICA/Expat Media
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