Abu Dhabi Restores Normal Speed Limits After Morning Fog Clears

Temporary speed limit caps imposed on several Abu Dhabi roads were lifted shortly after 8am on Tuesday morning following dense fog that shrouded the capital. Abu Dhabi Police had earlier reduced speed limits to 80kph on key routes as a vital safety measure after foggy conditions severely reduced visibility.

The National Centre of Meteorology had issued a prior alert regarding the challenging weather, urging residents and motorists to exercise caution. "Speed limits on all the external roads of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi are now back to normal," Abu Dhabi Police announced in a social media message at 8.15am.

In its latest five-day weather bulletin, the NCM stated that further mist and fog formations are expected to persist until at least Saturday. The UAE has experienced several bouts of fog, particularly in low-lying areas, over recent weeks, leading to continuous safety warnings from authorities.

Abu Dhabi Police originally began enforcing the 80kph speed limit during adverse weather conditions—such as heavy rain, sandstorms, and fog—in April 2019. These temporary speed limits are displayed on electronic signboards along roads and communicated via social media to keep road users informed. The initiative was launched after the Department of Transport's traffic safety committee approved a plan to mitigate risks during poor weather.

Motorists who fail to comply with the revised speed limits face strict penalties. Police impose fines of Dh300 ($81.6) for drivers exceeding speed limits by up to 10kph, and this fine is doubled for those breaking the limit by up to 20kph. Penalties escalate according to the severity of the traffic violation. Drivers caught exceeding the speed limit by more than 80kph face a Dh3,000 fine along with a 60-day vehicle seizure.