Dubai truck restrictions take effect October 1 on Sheikh Zayed Road

Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority introduced truck movement restrictions across the emirate from October 1, 2026, designating peak-hour bans on major corridors while exempting Emirates Road. The measures apply during specified periods on Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Meydan Street, Airport Street and other routes, according to an RTA announcement reported by cbnme.com on October 1, 2026.

Round-the-clock and 16-hour restrictions#

Al Qudra Street, Al Meydan Street, all crossings and the Airport Tunnel remain subject to round-the-clock truck restrictions. Sheikh Zayed Road and Beirut Street, along with residential areas including Al Mizhar, Muhaisnah and Oud Al Muteena, carry a 16-hour daily restriction between 6am and 10pm. Emirates Road is exempt from the restrictions, the RTA stated.

Three daily peak periods on urban routes#

Airport Street, Oman Street and Damascus Street restrict truck movements during three daily peak periods: 6.30am to 8.30am, 1pm to 3pm, and 5.30pm to 8pm. The authority coordinated the measures with Dubai Police. Businesses requiring heavy vehicles during restricted hours may apply through the RTA for a Mobility Permit for Heavy Vehicles in Banned Times and Roads, according to the announcement.

Rest area capacity expanded by 50 percent#

The RTA completed 14 of 16 planned truck rest stops across six locations, adding 364 parking spaces at seven facilities. The expansion increased capacity by 50 percent, bringing total truck parking spaces to 1,007 across these facilities. More than 150,000 trucks use the rest areas each month, with approximately 400,000 truck journeys made across Dubai daily, the RTA reported. Four additional permanent rest areas are planned in partnership with the private sector.

Awareness campaign and compliance requirements#

The RTA and Dubai Police will launch an awareness campaign targeting heavy vehicle drivers, freight companies and truck owners, outlining applicable timings, affected roads and alternative routes. Transport companies and drivers are advised to plan journeys in advance, follow directional signs and use designated truck rest areas rather than parking on main roads, in residential neighbourhoods or unauthorised locations, the authority stated.