Today's Edition
YOUSUF SAIFUDDIN KAPADIA (ABU DHABI)
In a recent announcement, His Excellency Suhail Mohammed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, outlined details regarding the maximum weight and dimensions for heavy vehicles permitted on UAE roads.
The maximum permissible gross weight for heavy vehicles are as follows: two axles - 21 tonnes, three axles - 34 tonnes, four axles - 45 tonnes, five axles - 56 tonnes, and six axles - 65 tonnes. Regarding maximum dimensions, a single heavy vehicle (integrated) can only measure up to an overall length of 12.5m, width of 2.6 m, and a height of 4.6 m. Similarly, the truck head and semi-trailer must adhere to an overall length of 21m, a width of 2.6 m, and a height of 4.6m.
For the truck head, trailer, and semi-trailer combination, the specifications include an overall length of 28m, a width of 2.6m, and a height of 4.6m. Meanwhile, a heavy vehicle transporting small vehicles should have an overall length of 23m, a width of 2.6m, and a height of 4.75m.
The Minister highlighted the new law as a crucial measure in the UAE’s ongoing commitment to enhance road safety and decrease traffic accidents.
Violations and Fines
For heavy vehicles exceeding the maximum gross weight by less than 10% in a single trip, the fine is Dh400 per tonne or part thereof. For a weight increase between 10% to 20%, the fine is Dh500, and for over 20%, it is Dh600, capped at a maximum of Dh15,000.
In the case of axle weight surpassing the specified limit, the fine is Dh1,500 per single axle or a group of tandem axles in a single trip. Exceeding the maximum dimensions incurs a fine of Dh3,000 for a single trip. Deliberate evasion of weigh stations or monitoring sites carries a fine of Dh5,000.
The same penalty applies to non-compliance with transportation permit controls for loads that are not easily divisible and providing incorrect information for permit applications for such loads. Non-compliance with authorised personnel instructions results in a Dh2,500 fine.
As per the new law, imposing multiple fines for the same violation during a single trip is not allowed. If both a maximum gross weight and maximum axle weight violation are detected in the same trip, the higher-value fine prevails. For repeat violations within the same month or if the cumulative unpaid fines exceed Dh45,000, the vehicle may be impounded or barred from using roads for up to 30 days.
The impounding penalty against the owner can be waived by paying a fine not exceeding Dh200 per day of vehicle impoundment.
Exceptions
Exceptions to exceed the maximum weights and dimensions may be permitted for loads that are not easily divisible after obtaining the necessary permit and proving lack of practical alternatives. The resolution emphasised the importance of compliance from vehicle operators and mentioned the right to appeal. Notably, these regulations and penalties are set to take effect in Q1 of 2024 after the installation of 24 smart electronic gates.
