Good news for daily commuters! A series of traffic improvements across 50 key locations in 2024 have significantly reduced travel time on two of the busiest roads in the country—E311 (Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road) and Sheikh Zayed Road (SZR). Officials report that these upgrades have cut travel times by up to 60%, making daily commutes smoother and faster.
Why These Upgrades Were Necessary

Traffic congestion has long been a major issue in the city, especially on Sheikh Zayed Road and E311, which connect key areas and business hubs. With increasing vehicle numbers and rapid urban development, authorities saw an urgent need to improve road infrastructure. The goal was to ease congestion, improve safety, and enhance overall driving conditions.
What Changes Were Made?

Authorities implemented several road enhancements to improve traffic flow and reduce bottlenecks. Here are some key improvements:

- Wider Roads – Several sections of E311 and SZR were expanded to add extra lanes, allowing more cars to pass through smoothly.
- New Interchanges – Multiple new interchanges were introduced, reducing the need for U-turns and sudden lane changes.
- Upgraded Traffic Signals – Smart traffic signal systems were installed to improve the timing of red and green lights, helping vehicles move more efficiently.
- Better Signage and Road Markings – Clearer road signs and improved lane markings help drivers navigate better, reducing sudden stops and confusion.
- Ramp and Exit Expansions – Key exit points were widened to prevent slowdowns when cars leave the highway.
How It Has Helped Commuters
According to reports, travel time on E311 and Sheikh Zayed Road has been reduced by as much as 60%. This means commuters are spending less time stuck in traffic and reaching their destinations faster. Businesses have also benefited, as quicker travel times improve efficiency for deliveries and employees.
Regular commuters have noticed a big difference. “Earlier, my drive from Sharjah to Dubai took almost two hours during peak time. Now, I reach in just 45 minutes! It’s a huge relief,” said Ahmed, a daily commuter.
Future Traffic Improvement Plans
Authorities are not stopping here. More projects are planned to further enhance traffic flow. Upcoming improvements include:
- Additional road expansions on other congested routes.
- More smart traffic systems to improve signal timings dynamically based on real-time traffic data.
- Better public transport connectivity to encourage fewer private vehicles on the roads.
Final Thoughts
These traffic upgrades are proving to be a game-changer for daily commuters and businesses alike. With travel time reduced by 60%, the roads are now faster and more efficient than ever before. More improvements are on the way, promising even better traffic conditions in the future. For now, commuters can enjoy a much smoother and stress-free drive on E311 and Sheikh Zayed Road.
Also read: Abu Dhabi Police Crack Down on Modified Vehicles with New Fines and Seizures