Drivers in the UAE must pay close attention to a major road change starting soon. Starting Monday, 14 September 2026, the speed limit on a critical section of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Street (E311) within Abu Dhabi has been reduced from 120 km/h to 100 km/h in both directions. Here are the key details you need to know:
- Speed limit reduced from 120 km/h to 100 km/h on E311 in Abu Dhabi
- Change starts on Monday, 14 September 2026, in both directions
- Abu Dhabi enforces a strict zero-buffer radar system with no grace period
The affected stretch spans from the At Turoush Street and Tawi Al Qaymah Street junctions to the Al Khayr Street interchange, situated between Al Shamkhah to the north and Madinat Al Riyad and Baniyas Cemetery to the south. Abu Dhabi Mobility, which announced the reduction as a safety measure, utilizes a zero-tolerance radar system in place since 2018. Unlike Dubai and Sharjah, which allow for a 20 km/h grace buffer,
Abu Dhabi enforcement is immediate; radars trigger at 101 km/h. Fines range from Dh300 to Dh3,000, with violations exceeding the limit by more than 80 km/h resulting in 23 black points and a 60-day vehicle impoundment. This change significantly impacts expatriate commuters, including office staff, hospital workers, teachers, and construction supervisors who travel between Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Authorities advise drivers to disregard previous habits and monitor newly posted 100 km/h signage, as cruise control settings used in Dubai will result in immediate tickets upon crossing into Abu Dhabi territory. Drivers are also cautioned to update their navigation apps, such as Google Maps or Waze, as cached data may erroneously display the former 120 km/h limit. Fleet managers have been urged to notify drivers regarding the enforcement policy. Similar speed reductions have been previously applied to segments of the E22 and E30 highways.
