Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has awarded a contract to develop three integrated truck rest areas in partnership with the private sector, strengthening the emirate’s logistics infrastructure.
The sites will cover more than 210,000 square metres and accommodate up to 490 trucks and heavy vehicles. They are strategically located along key corridors and within major logistics hubs that handle high volumes of daily truck traffic.
The RTA said the locations were identified through technical studies and defined criteria aimed at maximising usage and supporting the land transport sector. Site selection also considered proximity to major roads and logistics zones to serve the highest number of vehicles.
All three facilities will meet international safety standards, particularly in the design of entry and exit points. They will provide a range of services to improve driver safety, wellbeing and operational efficiency.
Key step to advance Dubai’s logistics ecosystem
Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the RTA, said: “Awarding the contract for the development of three integrated truck rest areas in partnership with the private sector marks a key strategic step in advancing Dubai’s transport and logistics ecosystem that enhances the efficiency of the land transport sector and reinforces the emirate’s position as a global hub for trade and logistics services.
“Dubai is witnessing sustained growth in the logistics sector, with more than 500,000 truck trips recorded daily on roads. Internal truck movement within the emirate accounts for approximately 83% of total truck traffic, while the number of registered trucks in Dubai has reached 85,000, which reflects the growing demand for specialised infrastructure to support this vital sector.
“The development of truck rest areas responds to this rapid growth and seeks to enhance operational efficiency and road safety by providing an integrated and secure environment for drivers. It helps in reducing random stopping and improving traffic flow across the road network, thereby supporting the sustainability of supply chains.”
The largest facility, near Jebel Ali 3, will span 100,000 square metres and accommodate up to 250 vehicles. It will include testing and training centres, maintenance services, retail outlets, warehouses, accommodation, leisure areas, EV charging points and diesel refuelling stations.
A second site in Saih Shuaib, near Dubai Industrial City, will cover 51,000 square metres and serve up to 120 trucks, offering accommodation, maintenance, retail, logistics and EV charging facilities.
The third, in Madinat Hind 2 along Emirates Road near Al Tayy Racetrack, will cover more than 59,000 square metres with capacity for around 120 vehicles, including testing, training, maintenance, retail and accommodation services.
Improving operational efficiency
Al Tayer said: “The partnership with the private sector in the development and operation of these facilities reflects RTA’s direction towards adopting modern models for infrastructure delivery, enhancing economic sustainability and improving operational efficiency.
“The three facilities have been designed as integrated service complexes offering accommodation, maintenance, training, and commercial services, thereby enhancing the quality of life for truck drivers and elevating the working environment in this vital sector.”
