Abu Dhabi Plans Road Closure on Major Highway

Abu Dhabi: Partial Road Closure on Sheikh Maktoum Bin Rashid Road on December 28

Abu Dhabi's mobility authority announced that on Sunday, December 28, there will be a partial road closure on one of the main highways, Sheikh Maktoum Bin Rashid Road (E11), which provides a direct connection between Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Authorities have warned motorists to plan their routes in advance and be prepared to use alternative routes.

Importance of the E11 Road

The E11, officially known as the Sheikh Maktoum Bin Rashid Road, is one of the busiest and most important transportation routes in the United Arab Emirates, linking Abu Dhabi and Dubai. It is regularly used by daily commuters, logistics companies, tourists, freight operators, and weekend travelers. The E11 runs west to east across the country, playing a crucial role in ensuring mobility within the Emirates.

What Happens on December 28?

According to a statement from the mobility authority, the right lane leading to Dubai on the Sheikh Maktoum Bin Rashid Road will be closed from 12 a.m. (midnight) on December 28, Sunday. Although the closure is temporary, it is vital for road users not to drive habitually during the affected period but to pay attention to signs, posted directions, and instructions from the police.

Purpose and Background of the Road Closure

Although the authorities did not specify the exact reasons for the closure, similar cases typically involve maintenance or expansion works, infrastructure development, or traffic management improvements. Periodic maintenance of this kind on the E11 is essential to manage the increasingly heavy traffic loads safely and efficiently. The traffic between Abu Dhabi and Dubai deserves particular attention as tens of thousands of vehicles traverse this section daily.

What Can Drivers Expect?

During the closure, drivers will have to choose alternative routes. This will be especially important for those heading out early in the morning, whether for work commutes, airport transfers, or just a weekend trip to Dubai. During the morning rush hour, congestion on alternative routes is expected to increase, so travelers are recommended to allow at least an extra 20–30 minutes.

The Abu Dhabi Mobility Authority suggests taking the following steps:

Check live traffic maps or updates from authorities before departure.

Use navigation apps with real-time traffic data.

Pay attention to official updates on social media channels.

Plan your route in advance and have a "Plan B" if the primary alternative is also congested.

Alternative Routes and Possible Congestion Points

When diverting from the E11, drivers have several options. For those coming from the northern part of Abu Dhabi, the Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Road (E10) could be an alternative, while for those departing from downtown, the Al Khaleej Al Arabi Street (E20) or Sweihan Road might be suitable detours. However, it should be noted that these roads are usually busy even under normal circumstances, so such a traffic diversion could increase pressure on them.

For those heading towards Dubai without a time-sensitive agenda, such as weekend getaways or family visits, it might be advisable to delay their departure to avoid the morning peak and the congestion caused by the closure.

Why Is Public Cooperation Important?

During such traffic restrictions, responsible behavior from the public is crucial for safety and smooth execution. Traffic authorities often plan such works months in advance and strive to disrupt traffic as little as possible. However, adaptation, patience, and foresight from the community are indispensable.

Effective information dissemination and the use of social media can also help ensure that as few people as possible encounter unexpected obstacles, allowing everyone to reach their destinations on time.

Long-term Benefits of the Developments

While closures may cause short-term inconvenience, in the long term, these works ensure that the infrastructure can keep pace with the growing population, increasing number of vehicles, and expanding tourism and economy. The continuously developing cities of Abu Dhabi and Dubai can only remain livable and competitive if the fundamental infrastructures, including the road network, are constantly renewed.

The current closure is another step towards this goal: well-thought-out, pre-announced, and properly communicated road closures enable a balance between modern urban development and everyday convenience.

Summary

From 12 a.m. on Sunday, December 28, a partial closure will take effect on the E11 road in Abu Dhabi, in the right lane towards Dubai. During the closure period, drivers must use alternative routes and drive with increased caution. Authorities have requested public cooperation and patience, and encouraged everyone to follow up-to-date traffic information for safe and seamless travel.

While this measure may cause temporary inconvenience, it ultimately serves to strengthen the infrastructure and enhance the efficiency of transportation between the Emirates.

(Source of the article: Announcement by Abu Dhabi's mobility authority.)