The UAE will ban heavy vehicles weighing over 65 tonnes from plying on its roads, effective from the beginning of next year, 2024.
In a significant move aimed at preserving the country’s advanced infrastructure and bolstering road safety the announcement comes as part of a federal law regulating vehicle weights approved by the UAE Cabinet.
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, expressed the rationale behind this pivotal decision. He emphasized that the primary objective of the ban is to protect and maintain the UAE’s state-of-the-art road infrastructure while enhancing overall road safety for residents and visitors alike.
One of the key features accompanying this regulatory change is the implementation of a sophisticated smart electronic gate system.
This system will be responsible for measuring and continuously monitoring the weights and dimensions of heavy vehicles passing through designated checkpoints. It is expected to ensure strict compliance with the new weight restrictions and swiftly identify any violations.
The ban on heavy vehicles weighing over 65 tonnes reflects the UAE government’s commitment to sustainable infrastructure and efficient transportation systems. By reducing the strain on the country’s roads caused by exceptionally heavy vehicles, the authorities aim to extend the lifespan of the road network and minimize maintenance costs.
Moreover, this move aligns with global efforts to enhance road safety standards and environmental sustainability within the transport sector. It is expected to contribute to reducing accidents, traffic congestion, and emissions on UAE roads, fostering a safer and more eco-friendly transportation environment.
In light of the upcoming ban, stakeholders within the heavy vehicle industry, including transport companies and truck operators, are encouraged to assess their fleets and operations to ensure compliance with the new regulations. This proactive approach will help facilitate a smooth transition to the updated legislation and contribute to the overall success of the initiative.
The introduction of the smart electronic gate system represents a technologically advanced and efficient means of enforcing the weight restrictions. Its implementation demonstrates the UAE’s commitment to harnessing cutting-edge technology to enhance road safety and infrastructure management.
As the ban on heavy vehicles weighing over 65 tonnes is set to come into effect in 2024, the UAE is taking a significant stride towards achieving safer, more sustainable, and better-maintained roadways for the benefit of all road users.