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New road safety move: Abu Dhabi scraps 120kmph minimum speed limit on E311

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8 months ago

April 14, 2025

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In a move aimed at improving road safety and easing the movement of heavy vehicles, Abu Dhabi Mobility has announced the removal of the 120kmph minimum speed limit on Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Road (E311), one of the Emirate’s key intercity highways.

The change, which takes immediate effect, is part of Abu Dhabi’s ongoing efforts to create a more flexible and inclusive traffic system, particularly for large transport vehicles that struggle to maintain higher speeds on long-haul routes.

Making Roads Safer and Smarter

Previously, motorists on E311 were required to maintain a minimum speed of 120kmph in designated lanes, a policy introduced to ensure consistent traffic flow and reduce lane-switching on high-speed roads. While the regulation was intended to streamline traffic, it posed challenges for certain vehicle categories, especially heavy trucks and older vehicles unable to sustain such speeds safely.

“The lifting of the minimum speed limit reflects a strategic shift toward enhancing road safety while accommodating the needs of all types of road users,” Abu Dhabi Mobility said in its announcement on Monday.

Officials stressed that the adjustment is expected to reduce pressure on drivers of heavy trucks and larger vehicles, many of whom faced difficulties adhering to the minimum speed, particularly when navigating inclines, exits, or merging with faster-moving traffic.

Focus on Heavy Vehicle Mobility

Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Road is a vital artery that connects Abu Dhabi to the northern emirates, supporting both daily commuters and long-distance freight movement. The route is heavily used by cargo trucks, making it essential for the capital’s logistics and supply chain operations.

Transport experts say the relaxed speed rule will offer heavy vehicle drivers more leeway, enabling them to travel at safer, more manageable speeds without fear of fines or disrupting the flow of traffic.

Maximum Speed Remains Unchanged

While the minimum speed requirement has been scrapped, the maximum speed limit on E311 remains unchanged. Drivers are still expected to follow posted limits, which vary depending on the section of the road and vehicle type. Enforcement of the speed cap will continue through smart monitoring systems and traffic patrols.

Motorists must remain vigilant

The decision is also aligned with Abu Dhabi’s Vision Zero strategy, an ambitious goal to eliminate road fatalities through smarter road design, improved enforcement, and inclusive mobility solutions.

Motorists are advised to remain vigilant, follow all traffic signs, and exercise caution—particularly during peak hours and in zones where multiple vehicle types share lanes.

Related Topics:abudhabi abudhabmobility E311 heavyvehicles highway motorists roads roadsafety speedlimit trucks

Michael Gomes

With over 35 years of experience in journalism, copywriting, and PR, Michael Gomes is a seasoned media professional deeply rooted in the UAE’s print and digital landscape.

News

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

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24 hours 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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24 hours 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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24 hours 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.