Is overtaking allowed on the hard shoulders of the road?

Overtaking on the hard shoulders of the road is not permitted as it poses significant safety risks and is generally illegal in most jurisdictions, including Dubai. Hard shoulders are designated areas meant for emergency stopping or for vehicles in distress, not for regular traffic movement. Allowing vehicles to overtake on these shoulders could lead to dangerous situations, including collisions between overtaking vehicles and those that may be stopped or in the process of maneuvering on the shoulder.

The regulation against overtaking on hard shoulders is established to ensure that these areas remain clear for emergencies and are not obstructed by passing vehicles. This ruleset is crucial for maintaining road safety and ensuring that emergency services can access the scene quickly if required.

Options discussing overtaking by emergency vehicles or during heavy traffic might suggest scenarios where exceptions could apply, but these do not change the fundamental rule that hard shoulders should not be used for overtaking. The focus should remain on maintaining clear pathways for emergency responses and ensuring the overall safety of all road users.