Photo Credit: Gulf News
Dense fog and peak-hour traffic combined to cause major delays across parts of Dubai and Sharjah on Tuesday morning, slowing movement on several key arterial roads and border routes between the two emirates.
The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) issued an early-morning fog alert, warning of reduced visibility across internal and coastal areas until 9am. The advisory followed overnight fog formation in multiple locations, creating difficult driving conditions for early commuters.
Traffic authorities urged motorists to remain cautious, reduce speed and maintain safe distances. Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and Sharjah Police both issued alerts on social media, advising drivers to expect delays and drive carefully.
Congestion across Sharjah’s main corridors
In Sharjah, Al Wahda Street recorded severe congestion from Al Khan through to Al Mulla Plaza, with traffic moving slowly across long stretches. Navigation apps indicated delays of up to 25 minutes during the busiest period, as fog compounded the usual rush-hour pressure.
Heavy traffic was also reported on the road leading to Sahara Centre, where slow-moving vehicles dominated the morning commute. Sharjah Airport Road experienced stop-and-go conditions, while several industrial zones saw bottlenecks as workers travelled towards Dubai.
Industrial Area 3 and surrounding streets, including 125 Street and 4 Street, were particularly congested. Al Nahda near the S102 Sharjah Ring Road emerged as another major choke point, with traffic barely moving for extended periods.
Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311) was among the worst affected. From Al Zahia City Centre in Sharjah to Muhaisnah 4 in Dubai, vehicles were near standstill. Waze users reported delays of 35 to 45 minutes on a stretch that typically takes around 15 minutes during off-peak hours.
Delays reported on major Dubai routes
Within Dubai, E11 Al Ittihad Road, a primary route from Sharjah, saw heavy congestion from the border areas inward, as fog-related cautious driving slowed traffic further.
E44 Ras Al Khor Road, particularly between Dubai Design District and Business Bay, experienced moderate to severe congestion, affecting commuters heading towards Business Bay and DIFC. Al Khail Road also recorded delays of approximately 15 to 25 minutes as traffic converged near business and education hubs.
Localised congestion was reported in Al Warqa’a 1 along 13 Street, while Al Zumorrod Street in Al Quoz Industrial Area 2 slowed as commercial and commuter traffic merged.
Alternative routes offer limited relief
With main corridors under pressure, some drivers opted for alternative routes. Emirates Road (E611) showed comparatively moderate flow, particularly for motorists travelling via Academic City. Routes approaching Festival City and Dubai Silicon Oasis through Mirdif also offered smoother movement than border crossings, according to navigation data.
Safety reminders for motorists
Authorities reiterated key safety advice for foggy conditions, including using low-beam headlights, avoiding hazard lights while driving, maintaining a safe following distance, and driving at reduced speeds without sudden braking.
Motorists are encouraged to check live traffic updates before setting out, allow extra travel time during peak hours, and consider public transport options such as the Dubai Metro when possible, as variable winter weather continues to affect road conditions across the UAE.
