Dubai authorities have reiterated a firm warning to motorists who habitually stay in the fast lane. Drivers should be aware that misusing this lane remains a common violation and could now lead to a Dh400 fine under traffic regulations.
The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has activated updated warnings on electronic signage across key roadways. These alerts remind motorists that the fast lane’s purpose is for overtaking other vehicles, not for cruising at leisure.
The electronic signs display messages like “Be alert! Fast lane for overtaking only,” accompanied by visuals to help drivers understand the rule. This targets “lane hogging,” which is when a vehicle remains in the overtaking lane without actively passing others.
Dubai Police have backed up the RTA’s message, warning that driving slowly in the fast lane adds risk and may lead to accidents. In a social media post, officers reminded motorists that maintaining at least the minimum required speed helps traffic flow more safely.
Authorities have previously cautioned motorists about reserving the leftmost lane for overtaking only, indicating that misuse of this rule continues to be a recurring concern that demands ongoing public education and enforcement.
Dubai Police have also launched public awareness campaigns on social platforms to explain proper fast lane etiquette. These include clear guidance on yielding to faster vehicles and ensuring emergency services like ambulances can pass without obstruction.
Motorists who do not give way in the fast lane risk a Dh400 fine. Federal traffic law also prescribes the same penalty for driving below the minimum speed or not allowing faster vehicles to pass.
Police previously cautioned that slow vehicles in the fast lane can interrupt traffic flow, frustrate motorists, and trigger abrupt braking or lane changes, greatly raising the likelihood of serious collisions.
Brigadier Juma Salem Bin Suwaidan of Dubai Police noted that a significant number of crashes are caused by drivers going below the minimum speed in the left lane and not yielding, forcing other motorists into risky overtaking manoeuvres on the right.
Since November 1, delivery riders are banned from using the two leftmost lanes on roads with five or more lanes, and the leftmost lane on roads with three or four lanes. On two‑lane roads or fewer, no such lane restrictions apply for bikes.
The updated warnings on lane discipline are a timely prompt for all drivers in Dubai to follow proper lane usage and reserve the fast lane solely for overtaking when required.
