Goodbye speed stress – slow driving won’t cost you anymore on E311, Abu Dhabi

TDT | Manama
Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com

Abu Dhabi Mobility has officially scrapped the 120km/h minimum speed limit on Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Road (E311), easing a rule that has been in place since April 2023. The update brings relief to drivers who previously faced fines of Dh400 for driving too slowly in the fast lanes.

The now-defunct rule required motorists in the first two lanes from the left to maintain a minimum speed of 120km/h. Introduced to reduce tailgating and improve lane discipline, the measure saw enforcement begin in May 2023. However, the third lane—reserved for heavy vehicles—was exempt from the regulation.

Traffic Flow and Safety the Main Priority

Announcing the change on Monday, Abu Dhabi Mobility stated the move was aimed at improving traffic safety and streamlining movement along the key Abu Dhabi-Dubai corridor. “As part of ongoing efforts to improve traffic safety and ease the movement of heavy vehicles, the minimum speed limit on Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Road (E311) has been removed,” the authority said in a statement posted to social media.

While the minimum speed restriction is no longer in effect, motorists are still required to comply with the 140km/h maximum speed limit, which remains unchanged and continues to be strictly enforced by speed radars.

No Grace Speed Buffer in Abu Dhabi

Drivers should note that, unlike other UAE emirates, Abu Dhabi does not allow a 20km/h grace margin over posted limits. Even marginal excesses over the maximum speed are penalized, following the emirate’s decision to remove this allowance in 2018.

Fines for Speeding Remain Steep

Speeding violations across the UAE attract heavy penalties:

• Over 80km/h: Dh3,000 fine, 23 black points, 60-day vehicle impoundment

• Over 60km/h: Dh2,000 fine, 12 black points, 30-day impoundment

• Up to 60km/h: Dh1,500 fine, six black points, 15-day impoundment

Drivers Advised to Use Appropriate Lanes

Although slow drivers will no longer be fined for not reaching 120km/h in the fast lanes, authorities still urge motorists who are uncomfortable driving at high speeds to stick to the rightmost lanes to avoid impeding faster vehicles and maintain smooth traffic flow.

This policy shift marks a notable change in Abu Dhabi's road strategy, reflecting a broader focus on flexibility and safety for all road users, especially along one of the UAE’s busiest highways.