UAE Morning Commute Disrupted by Dense Fog and Heavy Traffic Jams
Commuters across the United Arab Emirates faced a difficult Tuesday morning. A thick blanket of fog combined with heavy traffic bottlenecks created challenging conditions nationwide. Abu Dhabi grappled with dangerously low visibility. Meanwhile, drivers traveling between Sharjah and Dubai encountered the familiar crawl of morning congestion.
Weather Conditions Prompt Urgent Alerts
Motorists woke up to dense fog across several emirates early today. The fog was particularly heavy in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and parts of Sharjah. The National Centre of Meteorology reported low horizontal visibility across coastal and internal areas. Dense fog persisted through the morning hours.
Police and weather authorities issued urgent warnings. They stated visibility could drop sharply below 1,000 metres in some areas. This made it harder for drivers to see clearly on major highways and arterial roads during the morning commute.
Temperatures dipped noticeably as a result of these conditions. Early-morning readings were cooler than usual for this time of year. This enhanced the likelihood of continued fog and mist.
Major Traffic Delays on Key Highways
As fog blanketed the capital, the northern emirates faced a different kind of slow-down. The E11, also known as Al Ittihad Road, remains the biggest pain point for commuters. Those traveling from Sharjah into Dubai experienced significant delays.
Tailbacks stretched from Al Nahda all the way toward the Dubai International Airport tunnels. Simultaneously, the E311, or Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, saw substantial stop-and-go traffic. Congestion was notable near the Mirdif City Centre area and the Sharjah-Dubai border.
These delays added an extra 20 to 30 minutes to standard commute times. Authorities suggested that drivers who had not left yet consider taking the E611, or Emirates Road. This route might offer a slightly clearer path.
Police Issue Critical Safety Warnings
Police forces across the emirates have been active on social media and official channels. They urged drivers to adopt extra caution while navigating fog-affected roads.
Abu Dhabi Police specifically reminded drivers to obey speed limits. They emphasized following traffic signs and using low-beam headlights when visibility is low. Authorities also stressed the importance of maintaining safe following distances.
Drivers should adhere to variable message boards. These displays show changing speed limits in real time. Emergency services reinforced that caution is essential for both motorists and pedestrians in foggy conditions. Road safety starts with responsible driving.
Authorities generally recommend that drivers:
- Maintain a safe gap between vehicles
- Use fog or low-beam headlights, not high beams
- Avoid overtaking in poor visibility
- Reduce speed even if posted limits are temporarily raised
What to Expect as the Day Progresses
The good news is that the heavy atmosphere is temporary. As the morning progresses, the National Centre of Meteorology predicts the fog will lift. It will give way to a fair and occasionally cloudy afternoon.
Temperatures are expected to remain pleasant. They will hover in the mid-20s across the coastal cities. However, humidity will likely return tonight. This brings a high chance of more fog for Wednesday morning.
If you are heading out later today, traffic is expected to ease by noon. Always keep an eye on those overhead electronic boards for real-time speed limit updates.
