UAE Traffic Overhaul: 10 Key Changes

Ten New Traffic Rules Every UAE Resident Must Know by 2026

The transportation system in the United Arab Emirates is set to undergo significant changes by 2026, aiming to reduce congestion, enhance traffic safety, and improve efficiency through the introduction of digital systems. Emirates such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, and others will contribute to implementing new regulations that directly affect drivers, motorcycle couriers, transportation companies, taxi services, and everyday residents.

New Timing in Darb Toll System in Abu Dhabi

Starting September 1, 2025, the Abu Dhabi Darb system will operate with a new timeframe. The afternoon toll period will be adjusted from 5:00 PM–7:00 PM to 3:00 PM–7:00 PM from Monday to Saturday. The morning period remains unchanged, with no tolls on Sundays and official holidays.

Notably, daily and monthly toll caps will be removed. Exemptions continue to apply for designated social groups, such as seniors, retirees, and low-income individuals.

Variable Speed Limits in Abu Dhabi

A new system has been introduced in Abu Dhabi on Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Road, allowing dynamic adjustments of speed limits according to traffic conditions. The electronic displays show limits that account for congestion, accidents, construction areas, or weather conditions, directly linked to traffic monitoring cameras and sensors.

Courier Exclusion from Dubai Fast Lanes

From November 1, 2025, Dubai has prohibited food couriers and other motorcycle delivery riders from using the left-hand fast lanes. This applies to roads with three or more lanes. On a five-lane road, the first two left lanes are off-limits, while on a four-lane road, only the outermost left lane is prohibited. For two-lane roads, motorcyclists can freely choose their lanes.

This aims to reduce the risk of accidents, as motorcyclists are more vulnerable and vehicles are harder to control at high speeds.

Designated Lanes in Sharjah

Sharjah has implemented designated lanes for buses, motorcyclists, and trucks. The rightmost lane is now exclusively for buses and heavy vehicles. Motorcyclists are prohibited from using the outermost left lane. In addition, cameras and radars monitor compliance with these rules.

Smart Speed Limiters in Ajman

Ajman was the first to introduce intelligent speed regulation systems in taxis and limousines. The system automatically adjusts vehicle speed according to official limits on specific roads, reducing dangerous maneuvers and speeding.

Truck Ban in Abu Dhabi

From December 1, 2025, certain road sections in Abu Dhabi have permanently banned trucks. Roads like E10 (Al Raha Beach Road) and E11 (Sheikh Maktoum bin Rashid Road) are off-limits for truck traffic. Instead, trucks must use the E75 (Al Faya–Saih Shuaib) and Al Hafar routes.

Additionally, peak-time restrictions have been introduced on the E30 Al Rawdah road to reduce congestion within the industrial zone, particularly involving interactions with light vehicles.

Solid Lane Markings in Dubai

From November 2025, new solid lane markings appeared on various routes. Roads like Ittihad Road, Baghdad Street, Airport Tunnel, E311, and E611 feature continuous white lines that cannot be crossed for overtaking, lane changes, or turning. Violating this rule incurs a fine of 400 dirhams. Although no official announcement was made, several drivers have already been fined for violations.

Dubai Taxi Fare Increase

From November 2025, Dubai Taxi service implemented new fares for app-ordered rides. The minimum fare increased from 12 dirhams to 13 dirhams. Peak surcharges have also been introduced, varying by the day of the week.

For instance, from Monday to Thursday, an additional 7.5 dirhams apply during 8:00 AM–10:00 AM and 4:00 PM–8:00 PM. Night rides (10:00 PM–6:00 AM) incur an extra 4.5 dirhams.

Parking and Fines Connection

From October 2025, thanks to cooperation between Dubai Police and Parkin PJSC, the system can immediately identify vehicles with fines or seizure orders as they enter Parkin-managed parking lots, allowing for swift action against offenders.

This digital integration contributes to road safety and traffic management in Dubai.

24-Hour Paid Parking Near Mosques

Since August 2025, a 24-hour parking system operates around Dubai mosques. Except during prayer times, parking is charged every day of the week. During prayer, the first hour is free for worshippers.

The system was introduced in 59 locations, with 41 in the M (normal) zone and 18 in the MP (premium) zone. In the M zone, the fee is 2 dirhams for 30 minutes, 4 dirhams for an hour. In the MP zone, the same rates apply off-peak, but during peak times, they increase to 3 dirhams for 30 minutes and 6 dirhams for an hour.

Summary

The new traffic rules and developments will have a significant impact on the UAE's transportation in 2026. The clear goal is to create a safer, faster, more efficient, and sustainable transportation environment. Technological innovations, designated lanes, smart systems, and digitalized fine processes are all in place to ensure that Dubai and other emirates keep pace with rapidly growing urban mobility. Therefore, it's essential for all road users to stay informed, as the roads of the future are being built now.

(Source: Summary of 10 important changes affecting transportation.)