Speeding just became more perilous in Abu Dhabi as the emirate tightens speed restrictions on major highways and city roads. With the new decreases on roads such as Sweihan (E20) and Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed (E11), even experienced drivers need to change their driving practices. Most significantly, the 20 km/h buffer zone for speeding—still present in other UAE emirates—does not exist in Abu Dhabi, leaving the room for error wafer-thin.
Most drivers are taken by surprise, believing they can go over speed limits by a few kilometers. In Abu Dhabi, going even 1 km/h over the limit can earn instant fines from speed cameras. That is a 100 km/h limit exactly—no mercy. Fines go from AED 300 to AED 3,000, with potential black points and vehicle seizures for serious offenses. Speeding more than 80 km/h over the limit can even temporarily take away your license.
To remain penalty-free, knowledge is power. Keep an eye on official announcements regarding road speed limits, particularly around schools, residential areas, and construction zones. Employ navigation software that indicates real-time speed warnings and opt for cruise control on long journeys to drive at a consistent, safe speed. Do not bank on other emirates’ rules that may no longer apply here—the capital has its own rules.
Abu Dhabi’s new policy is one of a wider vision to cut road fatalities and encourage responsible driving. Zero buffer enforcement is hoped by the authorities to be a powerful deterrent against dangerous speeding. For locals and visitors, the message is simple: drive smart, drive safe, and keep to the limit—just so.
