Abu Dhabi bans delivery riders from high-speed roads to cut fatal crashes

Abu Dhabi Mobility has introduced new road restrictions to protect delivery riders. The measures, enforced by the Integrated Transport Centre, aim to reduce accidents on high-speed roads. They form part of wider safety efforts, including the 'Delivery Riders Safety' programme. The restrictions came into effect on 15 May 2026. Delivery riders must now use only the right-hand lanes on roads with a 100km/h speed limit. On roads with limits of 120km/h or higher, including Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Street, they are banned entirely.

Traffic data and field studies revealed a sharp rise in serious injuries and deaths among delivery riders on these roads. Although they travel less than 5% of their daily distance on such routes, they accounted for 22% of all delivery rider fatalities there. The ITC also noted that using alternative routes may add four to seven minutes to journey times.

Additional safety steps include dedicated rest areas to prevent heat stress. The ITC is working with delivery companies to redistribute rider stations and shorten trip distances. These actions aim to balance safety with the growing demand for delivery services. Road deaths in Abu Dhabi fell by 6% from 2023 to 2025. Despite this, delivery riders continue to face a higher risk of fatal crashes. The new rules and support measures are designed to address this disparity and improve their safety on the roads.