The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and Dubai Police General Headquarters have introduced joint patrol units to monitor heavy vehicles and ensure their technical compliance. These patrol units will cover six major roads in Dubai: Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, Emirates Road, Al Khail Road, Ras Al Khor Road, Al Maktoum Airport Road, and Dubai-Al Ain Road. Heavy vehicles will be fined if any violations that compromise safety are detected. Major General Abdullah Ali Al Ghaithi of Dubai Police emphasized the importance of this initiative in upholding traffic laws and ensuring the proper maintenance of heavy vehicles to prevent accidents.
Hussain Al Banna, CEO of RTA’s Traffic and Roads Agency, highlighted the collaboration between RTA and Dubai Police to monitor heavy vehicles on highways and enforce technical and safety standards. The focus will be on various aspects such as tyre safety, availability of safety equipment, lighting efficiency, overloading, protruding cargo, and valid licenses. The aim is to strengthen enforcement against violations, promote traffic safety, and work towards achieving the ‘Zero Fatalities’ vision in Dubai.
Al Banna also noted the decrease in traffic-related fatalities by 93% between 2007 and 2023, showcasing the positive impact of these efforts. The Joint Patrol Units aim to enhance traffic safety, reduce truck-related incidents, and increase awareness among truck drivers. The ultimate goal is to ensure the highest levels of safety and security for all road users in Dubai, whether using public or individual transport. Major General Al Ghaithi urged heavy vehicle drivers to adhere to traffic laws, maintain safe practices, and prioritize safety during travels.
RTA recently completed 10 truck rest stops out of 16 planned, in partnership with ADNOC. These rest stops are strategically located across six sites frequently used by trucks, providing facilities such as prayer rooms, diesel refueling stations, and rest areas for drivers. Accommodating 30 to 45 trucks or heavy vehicles each, the rest stops span between 5,000 and 10,000 square meters. These initiatives aim to support truck drivers during their journeys and enhance overall safety on the roads in Dubai. The collaboration between RTA and Dubai Police underscores the commitment to traffic safety and the prevention of accidents involving heavy vehicles.
