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Abu Dhabi is best in the world when it comes to traffic

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4 years ago

May 29, 2022

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Abu Dhabi (WAM) – The UAE capital of Abu Dhabi has been ranked as the world’s least congested capital according to the TomTom Traffic Index for 2021, based on the annual survey of 416 cities in 57 countries by the global navigation services company.

The new ranking is based on a combination of criteria, including the rate of traffic congestion at intersections and streets at various times during the day, including peak hours.

The study also analysed the number of traffic lights and their programming and contribution to the development of traffic flow in cities. It also examined the quality of traffic light systems in terms of their long-term viability and weather resistance.

Abu Dhabi recorded 11% congestion level, reflecting the impact of the integrated traffic management plan implemented by the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT).

The department’s strategy involved enhancing operational efficiency, improving road assets and infrastructure, and increasing the number of options and modes of public transportation to ensure optimal utilisation of transportation and necessary utilities to improve residents’ everyday quality of life.

Falah Al Ahbabi, Chairman of DMT, said: “Building an integrated transportation infrastructure is a vital pillar of the emirate’s continued efforts to improve the quality of life on par with the best cities globally. We’ve always followed a long-term strategy and taken a proactive approach to the future, focusing on responding to the residents needs. TomTom’s new ranking serves as an encouragement to continue accomplishing DMT’s strategic goals.

“Continuing to get global recognitions for the capital’s transport and traffic management services confirms our leadership’s vision to provide the best quality of life in Abu Dhabi by implementing the highest international standards. We strive to strengthen Abu Dhabi’s position as one of the world’s best places to live and work by developing sustainable smart cities for the future.”

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Dubai-India travel: Security procedures triggered for Emirates flight following bomb threat email, flight lands safely

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1 day ago

December 5, 2025

Michael Gomes

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Authorities at Hyderabad’s Rajiv Gandhi International Airport activated full emergency protocols on Friday after receiving a bomb threat email linked to Emirates flight EK526 travelling from Dubai (DXB) to Hyderabad (HYD).

According to GMR officials, the threat email landed in the airport’s customer support inbox around 7.30am on December 5. Despite the alert, the flight continued under strict monitoring and landed safely at 8.30am.

Once on the ground, the aircraft was immediately moved to an isolated bay. Passengers were safely deboarded, and security te

ams carried out standard bomb threat checks. Investigations are currently underway.

Emirates confirmed the incident in a statement to local media, saying authorities had alerted them to a “potential security threat” to EK526.
“All standard security procedures were implemented by the relevant local authorities with full co-operation from Emirates’ ground teams,” the airline said, adding that “the safety and well-being of passengers and crew remain the highest priority.”

Authorities say all threats are being investigated, and extra security measures remain in place at the airport.

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Driving through Abu Dhabi this week? Here are the road closures you need to know about

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1 day ago

December 5, 2025

Michael Gomes

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Abu Dhabi motorists can expect some delays over the next few days, with the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) announcing a series of partial road closures across key routes in the capital. Drivers are being urged to plan, allow extra travel time, and follow diversions to avoid congestion.

Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Street

A major set of phased lane closures will take place near Sheikh Zayed Bridge from Tuesday, December 9 to Monday, December 22, 2025.

Three left lanes will be closed from 12am on December 9 until 10pm on December 15.
Two right lanes will then shut from 10pm on December 15 until 6am on December 22.

Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak Street

Another temporary closure is scheduled on Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak Street from 5pm on December 5 until 5am on December 8.

Authorities explained that these restrictions are part of ongoing road enhancement projects designed to improve traffic flow and safety across the city. Motorists are encouraged to use alternative routes wherever possible during the maintenance period.

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Sharjah Police give deadline to remove National Day stickers, or face fines

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1 day ago

December 5, 2025

Michael Gomes

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If your car is still sporting National Day decals, it’s time to take them off. Sharjah Police have announced that all vehicle owners must remove their UAE National Day celebration stickers by Saturday, December 6, and those who miss the deadline will face violations.

The reminder follows a crackdown during the 54th Eid Al Etihad celebrations, where authorities impounded 106 vehicles and nine motorbikes for dangerous and irresponsible behaviour on the roads.

According to Sharjah Police, the violations included:

Creating loud noise and disturbing residents
Driving recklessly and endangering others
Operating vehicles without a valid licence

Police officials urged motorists to celebrate responsibly and avoid turning festivities into safety risks.

However, there has been a shift in decorating trends this year. Many residents opted for cleaner, simpler, more elegant designs to showcase their UAE pride ahead of the long weekend, and demand for custom decals surged.

Authorities are now urging residents to ensure all celebratory stickers and decorations are removed by the set deadline to keep roads safe and avoid penalties.