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Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has approved the introduction of an additional front plate for motorcycles and e-bikes used in corporate delivery services, marking a significant regulatory step for one of the emirate’s fastest-growing transport sectors.
Previously, delivery motorcycles carried only a rear plate.
The requirement will take effect at the end of December and will be implemented gradually upon licence renewal. According to a WAM report, the move forms part of the broader regulatory framework adopted by RTA to govern the delivery sector in line with global best practices and an approved roadmap covering safety and security aspects of delivery operations.
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The introduction of additional front plates is part of a package of joint solutions and initiatives between RTA and Dubai Police General Headquarters. The decision followed a series of meetings involving partners from government and private entities, as well as consultancy firms, to review and assess procedures aimed at strengthening regulation of the sector.
These consultations focused on defining requirements that ensure the safety of delivery riders and other road users, with the broader objective of enhancing road safety across the emirate amid rising delivery activity.
Distinctive plates for delivery motorcycles
Ahmed Mahboob, CEO of Licensing Agency at RTA, said the decision applies specifically to motorcycles operating in the delivery sector. Under the new system, RTA has designated two plates, front and rear, for delivery motorcycles.
The plates will feature a gold background with black lettering and carry the code “(9)” to distinguish this category from other vehicles. RTA will issue the plates under a new unified number that differs from the previous plate number and will introduce them progressively upon licensing or renewal of each motorcycle, as well as in cases of damage or loss.
Mahboob clarified that the decision does not apply to non-commercial or individual motorcycles. The issuance of the additional front plate is limited to motorcycles used for parcel, message and document delivery; order management and delivery services; the management of transport and delivery requests through digital platforms and smart applications; and the rental of motorcycles and e-bikes when operated for these activities.
Responding to sector growth
Mahboob noted that the measure responds directly to the rapid growth recorded in the delivery sector in recent years, driven by rising demand and a growing number of motorcycles operating on Dubai’s roads. He said the controls introduced by RTA would play a key role in enhancing traffic discipline, improving the overall transport and delivery service experience, and supporting RTA’s top priority of safeguarding road users.
In coordination with Dubai Police General Headquarters, RTA had previously announced regulations governing the movement of delivery motorcycles on Dubai’s high-speed lanes. Delivery riders are prohibited from using the two left-most fast lanes on roads with five lanes or more, and the left-most fast lane on roads with three or four lanes. On roads with two lanes or fewer, delivery riders may use all lanes without restriction.
