UAE Defers Law Regulating Heavy Vehicle Dimensions

The UAE Cabinet has postponed the enactment of regulations governing the sizes and weights of heavy vehicles in the nation.

The Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure has been tasked with conducting a thorough study on the rationale behind the decision, while the Ministry of Economy has been directed to collaborate with all economic stakeholders to prevent any unwarranted escalation in prices.

Earlier this year, limits on the maximum weight and dimensions of heavy vehicles traveling on federal roads had been introduced, with violators facing fines of up to Dh15,000.
In September 2023, the Cabinet had sanctioned a federal law to regulate the weights and dimensions of heavy vehicles, including a provision barring heavy vehicles exceeding a maximum total weight of 65 tonnes from using the roads.

Cabinet Resolution No. 138 of 2023 was issued to enforce Federal Decree No. 12 of 2023.
Initially planned for implementation in the first quarter of 2024, the resolution would be enacted following the installation of 24 smart electronic gates in coordination with relevant authorities, as disclosed by Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, during a press conference in Abu Dhabi on September 13, 2023.

The resolution forms part of the UAE's ongoing initiatives to bolster road safety, reduce traffic accidents, and support the infrastructure and transport sectors, thereby extending the road service life and diminishing the carbon footprint of land transport.

Last year, it was reported that the resolution's provisions apply to heavy vehicles utilising UAE roads, including those licensed from other countries and permitted entry into the UAE, except vehicles owned by security, military, police, and civil defense authorities.

In the latest announcement on Sunday, the commencement date of the resolution's implementation was not specified.

As per earlier reports, under the resolution, the maximum permissible gross weights for heavy vehicles vary based on the number of axles. Vehicles with two axles must not exceed a gross weight of 21 tonnes, while those with three axles, four axles, five axles, and six axles must adhere to maximum weights of 34 tonnes, 45 tonnes, 56 tonnes, and 65 tonnes respectively.

Regarding violations and fines, the resolution stipulates fines ranging from Dh400 to Dh600 per tonne for exceeding the maximum gross weight, with penalties escalating for higher deviations. The resolution also clarifies the imposition of fines, impounding penalties, and conditions for release of impounded vehicles.

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