E-Paper
Sign In
Thu, Nov 13, 2025 | Jumada al-Awwal 22, 1447 | Fajr 05:14 | DXB 
28.1°C
iPhone | iPad
Android
UAE: Variable speed limit system on major Abu Dhabi road starting October 27
VSL system use electronic signs to adjust speed limits based on real-time road conditions such as congestion, incidents, work zones, or weather
Abu Dhabi will implement a new variable speed limit (VSL) system starting Monday, October 27, on Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Road, one of the city's busiest thoroughfares.
The initiative, announced by the Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility), aims to enhance road safety and improve traffic flow by adjusting speed limits based on real-time conditions.
Recommended For You
VSL system use electronic signs to adjust speed limits based on real-time road conditions such as congestion, incidents, work zones, or weather. They are connected to a central control system that receives data from sensors or traffic cameras.
Speed will change dynamically in response to:
Adverse weather conditions: Such as rain, fog, or sandstorms.
Peak-hour congestion: During times of heavy traffic.
Major events: That affect traffic volumes.
Roadworks or lane closures: That may impact traffic flow.
Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels.
Motorists are urged to adhere to the displayed speed limits, as these real-time adjustments are designed to reduce accidents and alleviate congestion, rather than arbitrarily slow down traffic.
Global adoption of variable speed limits
VSL systems are increasingly implemented in various countries, particularly in regions with advanced infrastructure and a focus on intelligent transportation systems (ITS). For instance, in the US, states like Minnesota and Texas have deployed VSL systems on highways such as Interstate 94 and Interstate 35W to manage congestion and improve safety. Similarly, in Europe, countries like Germany and the UK have long utilised VSLs on freeways to manage speed and traffic flows in changing conditions.
Speed limit changes in Abu Dhabi
Earlier this year, the speed limit on Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Street was lowered from 120kmph to 100kmph.
In April, the 120km/h minimum speed limit on Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Road (E311) was lifted. The maximum speed limit on the road remains unchanged at 140km/h.
The minimum speed limit was introduced in May 2023 and applied to the outer two left lanes in both directions. Motorists driving below the limit in these lanes faced a Dh400 fine.
The speed limit on this road was reduced to 100kmph. Earlier, the limit used to be 120kmph, making this a 20kmph reduction. The road is also termed as International Airport Road (E20).
Also, from April 14, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed International Road saw a 20km/h reduction. With the previous limit on E11 set at 160 km/h, the new limit is 140km/h.
E11 is the longest road in the UAE, linking Abu Dhabi and Dubai and running through other emirates, including Sharjah, Ajman, and Ras Al Khaimah. It is also known as Sheikh Zayed Road in Dubai.
Ajanta Paul
Ajanta Paul is a Senior Editor on the Digital team. A natural leader and newshound, she thrives in breaking news and high-pressure situations — and enjoys reporting on community issues that matter to UAE residents.
Don’t just scroll. Know it all. Sign up for your daily UAE news fix.
Get the top stories of the day right in your inbox.
