UAE Federal Government Implements New Heavy Vehicle Weight Limit
A important law imposing a 65-ton maximum allowed weight limit for heavy vehicles using the nation's national roads was recently introduced by the Federal Government of the United Arab Emirates. With its emphasis on the government's dedication to providing safer and more dependable road networks, this new rule seeks to improve road safety and protect the integrity of the country's road infrastructure.
UAE to ban some heavy vehicles
The aim of this regulation is to enhance road safety and preserve the integrity of road infrastructure. The law, which was announced on September 4, is set to take effect from October 1, 2023, with a grace period lasting until February 1, 2024, allowing heavy vehicle owners and companies to adapt before administrative penalties are enforced.
Safety and Infrastructure Protection
The primary objective of this new law is to improve the safety of road users and safeguard the nation's road infrastructure. The UAE has invested significantly in road infrastructure, and maintaining it in good condition is essential for safety and cost-efficiency.
Scope of the Law
The law will apply to over 150,000 heavy vehicles, including border-crossing trucks, with the exception of those owned by security, military, police, and civil defense authorities.
Grace Period
Heavy vehicle owners and companies have a four-month grace period, starting from October 1, 2023, to become compliant with the new weight limit. During this period, awareness campaigns will be conducted to educate transport companies about the law.
Regulations and Smart Gates
Over the grace period, the UAE cabinet will issue regulations specifying maximum total and axle weights, dimensions, a list of violations, and administrative penalties. Smart gates equipped with high-resolution monitoring cameras, 3D laser scanners, and electronic sensors will be installed on national roads to monitor compliance.
Full Enforcement
Starting from February 1, 2024, the law will be fully enforced, and penalties will apply to violators. An evaluation of the law's impact during its first year of implementation will be conducted by December 2024.
Emirate Flexibility
Each emirate has the flexibility to impose additional restrictions based on local road conditions and safety considerations. This flexibility allows local authorities to prioritize the safety of all road users.
Road Safety Impact
The regulation aligns with road safety engineering principles, as heavier vehicles can contribute to increased wear and tear on road infrastructure. Maintaining road infrastructure in good condition is not only vital for safety but also for cost-effective road maintenance.
Road Safety Statistics
The introduction of this regulation is aimed at reducing road accidents involving heavy vehicles. Several incidents involving heavy trucks have led to fatalities and injuries on UAE roads, emphasizing the importance of road safety measures.
Accidents
August 11, 2023:
Two fatalities and severe injuries in a traffic accident involving a pickup and a truck on Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road in Dubai.
January 25, 2023:
Serious injury caused by a truck flipping on Yabsa Street in Sakamkam, Fujairah.
October 27, 2022:
A tragic multi-vehicle accident occurred on Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, resulting in one fatality and injuries to five individuals. The accident involved multiple vehicles, including two trucks and four other vehicles, and was reportedly caused by tailgating, highlighting the importance of safe driving practices and maintaining proper following distances on the road.
- 28% of current truck loads in the UAE exceed 65 tonnes.
- The UAE has invested Dh22 billion in its road infrastructure.
- The annual cost of UAE road maintenance amounts to Dh200 million.
The implementation of this new regulation underscores the UAE's commitment to road safety and the preservation of its world-class road infrastructure.
