Sharjah Police will begin enforcing new traffic lane regulations for motorbikes, heavy vehicles, and buses starting November 1, as part of efforts to enhance road safety and improve mobility across the emirate.
The initiative, announced by the General Command of Sharjah Police on Thursday, is being carried out in coordination with the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). It aims to streamline traffic flow and reduce the risk of accidents involving motorbikes and large vehicles.
According to the new regulations, the far-right lane is reserved exclusively for heavy vehicles and buses. Motorbike riders, including delivery bikers, are restricted from using the far-left fast lanes. On four-lane roads, they may use the two right-most lanes; on three-lane roads, the middle or right lane; and on two-lane roads, only the right lane.
To ensure compliance, Sharjah Police will monitor traffic around the clock through advanced surveillance systems, including radars and smart cameras installed on major and secondary roads. These systems will automatically detect violations, helping authorities enforce the rules efficiently.
Under federal law, Article 8 stipulates a fine of Dh1,500 and 12 traffic points for heavy vehicles that fail to adhere to mandatory routes. Additionally, Article 70 imposes a Dh500 fine for drivers who disregard traffic signs and lane instructions.
Sharjah Police urged all road users to follow the designated routes and respect the new lane rules. The force emphasized that the initiative reflects its broader commitment to promoting traffic safety, maintaining smooth road operations, and enhancing the overall quality of life in the emirate.
The move follows similar measures introduced across the UAE. In Dubai, the RTA has also restricted delivery riders from using high-speed lanes beginning November 1. Riders are now prohibited from the leftmost lanes on roads with three or more lanes, while they may use either lane on smaller roads.
In Abu Dhabi, delivery bikers are allowed to ride only on the right lane of roads with speed limits above 100 km/h. Likewise, Ajman authorities have mandated that delivery motorcycles stay within the two right lanes on three- or four-lane roads.
These regulations come amid broader efforts across the UAE to enhance traffic safety and regulate heavy vehicle movement. Since early 2024, vehicles exceeding 65 tonnes have been banned from operating on UAE roads.
Additionally, from January 27, 2025, Abu Dhabi began enforcing new timing restrictions for heavy vehicles during peak hours to ease congestion. The rules apply from 6:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. and from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on weekdays, with additional morning and midday restrictions on Fridays.
Sharjah’s latest step underscores the UAE’s unified approach to improving road discipline, protecting all road users, and ensuring safer, more efficient transport networks nationwide.