From 2027, UAE delivery riders may not use backpacks or carry a passenger
New national traffic regulations that start on 1 January 2027 require delivery riders to use approved order boxes, wear the set uniform, log into their vehicle system and carry their professional permit.
Delivery riders across the UAE will no longer be allowed to carry orders in backpacks or take a passenger on the back of their motorcycle while working, under new national traffic regulations that take effect on 1 January 2027.
The rules are part of the implementing regulations of the federal traffic law, Federal Decree-Law No. 14 of 2024, issued under Cabinet Decision No. 174 of 2026, Gulf News and WAM, the state news agency, reported. They set out duties for professional drivers and delivery operators that until now have mostly been set emirate by emirate.
Under the new regulations, riders must carry orders in approved equipment and follow the approved loading rules, which rules out backpacks. They may not carry anyone behind them on a motorcycle licensed for deliveries. They must log into the approved system installed in their vehicle and use it as instructed, wear the set uniform and keep a presentable appearance, and carry their professional driving permit and show it when asked. Working without a permit, or with an expired or invalid one, is not allowed, and neither is delivering banned items or anything that breaches public order. Licensing and traffic authorities can add further conditions.
The same regulations repeat general rules for all motorcyclists: at least one hand on the handlebars except when signalling, no weaving or dangerous speed, a helmet at all times, riding in single file, and no passengers unless the bike is built for one.
In Dubai much of this is already familiar. The RTA has banned backpacks for delivery orders since 2021, with a Dh500 fine for a first offence, and since November 2025 delivery bikes have been barred from the two leftmost lanes on roads with five lanes or more, and from the leftmost lane on roads with three or four. What changes in 2027 is that one set of rules applies in every emirate. Fines under the new regulations have not been published.
For riders, the practical step is to check with your employer or delivery platform that your box, uniform and in-vehicle system meet the approved standard, and that your professional permit is valid and on you before 1 January. Companies that run delivery fleets should review their equipment and permits now. For customers, nothing changes in how you order.