The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has approved a new requirement for motorcycles and e-bikes used in corporate delivery services to display a front licence plate, in addition to the existing rear plate.
The rule will take effect at the end of December and will be implemented gradually during licence renewals. This measure is part of RTA’s regulatory framework for delivery vehicles, aligning with global safety and security practices.
Ahmed Mahboob, CEO of Licensing Agency at RTA, said: “The decision to issue an additional front plate applies to motorcycles operating in the delivery sector. RTA has designated two plates – front and rear – for delivery motorcycles, featuring a gold background with black lettering and carrying the code (9) to distinguish this category. RTA will issue the plates under a new unified number that differs from the previous plate number and will introduce them progressively upon the licensing or renewal of each motorcycle, in line with its renewal schedule or in cases of damage or loss.”
Mahboob clarified that the rule does not apply to non-commercial motorcycles and is limited to vehicles used for parcel, message, and document delivery; order management and delivery services; platform-based transport requests; and rental motorcycles or e-bikes used for these activities.
Safety and regulation
The decision follows consultations with government and private partners, as well as consultancy firms, to strengthen sector regulations and ensure road safety. Mahboob highlighted that the measure addresses the rapid growth of the delivery sector in Dubai and aims to improve traffic discipline and the overall transport and delivery service experience.
In coordination with Dubai Police General HQ, RTA has also set restrictions for delivery motorcycles on high-speed lanes. Riders are prohibited from using the two left-most lanes on roads with five or more lanes, the left-most lane on roads with three or four lanes, and may use all lanes on roads with two lanes or fewer.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
