Motorists in the UAE are advised to take note of new speed limit changes that came into effect in 2025 across key roads in Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah. Authorities made these changes to improve road safety, ease traffic congestion, and reduce the risk of accidents.
One of the most notable updates was on Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Road (E311), where Abu Dhabi authorities officially lifted the minimum speed limit of 120 kmph on the leftmost lanes. The earlier rule penalized drivers with a Dh400 fine for going below the set minimum speed, but from April 14, motorists noticed that those lane markings were removed. The maximum speed of 140kmph remains unchanged, and the move comes as a relief, particularly for heavy vehicle drivers who struggled to maintain the high minimum speed.
Another key road affected by the update is the Abu Dhabi-Sweihan Road (E20), also known as the International Airport Road. From April 14, the speed limit has been reduced from 120kmph to 100kmph. The 20kmph cut aims to enhance road safety and reduce speeding-related incidents on this heavily traveled stretch. 
Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed International Road (E11), the longest road in the UAE that runs from Abu Dhabi to Ras Al Khaimah, also saw a major change. The speed limit on this road was previously 160kmph but has now been reduced to 140kmph. Known as Sheikh Zayed Road within Dubai, this busy route connects several emirates, and the reduced limit is expected to encourage more controlled driving behavior.
Further north, in Ras Al Khaimah, the speed limit on Sheikh Mohammed bin Salem Street was reduced on a specific stretch—from Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Roundabout (Al Riffa) to Al Marjan Island Roundabout. The new limit is now 80kmph, down from 100kmph, effective from January 17. Authorities have also adjusted radar settings accordingly, reducing the threshold to 101kmph instead of 121kmph. This change was introduced to reduce accidents in a zone that sees high traffic volumes, especially from visitors to Al Marjan Island.
These changes are part of the UAE’s broader road safety strategy, which includes stricter enforcement of traffic laws, improved road infrastructure, and updated driver education. Motorists are urged to stay informed, adhere to new speed regulations, and drive responsibly to avoid fines, black points, and safety risks.
