As the UAE steps into a new year, drivers across the country are preparing for a series of traffic rules and system updates that will shape their daily commute in 2026. Many of these changes follow a year marked by rising congestion, new toll systems and higher parking fees. Others aim to ease traffic pressure through dedicated lanes, infrastructure upgrades and safety regulations.
Alongside ongoing initiatives, major projects are already in progress, including a new 120-kilometre federal highway with 12 lanes and expansion works on existing highways. Dubai will also see five multi-storey parking facilities built in busy commercial areas such as Al Souq Al Kabeer, Al Sabkha, Al Rigga, Downtown Dubai and Deira.
Below is a round-up of the 10 most important changes residents need to be aware of.
1. Updated Darb Toll System in Abu Dhabi
As of September 1, 2025, Abu Dhabi’s Darb toll schedule has been revised. Evening toll hours now run from 3pm to 7pm from Monday to Saturday, instead of the previous 5pm to 7pm slot. Morning timings remain unchanged.
Tolls remain free on Sundays and official holidays.
The Integrated Transport Centre has also removed daily and monthly toll caps. Exemptions for eligible groups, including People of Determination, retirees, low-income families and senior citizens, continue.
The update aims to improve traffic flow during peak hours.
2. Variable Speed Limits on Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Road
Since October 27, motorists on this key Abu Dhabi road have been following a variable speed limit system. Digital signs now adjust speed limits in real time based on traffic congestion, accidents, roadwork or weather conditions.
The system is linked to a central control room that uses data from sensors and cameras to regulate safe driving speeds.
3. Delivery Riders Barred from Dubai’s Fast Lanes
Dubai banned delivery riders from using fast lanes starting November 1, 2025.
Under the new rule:
- On roads with five lanes or more, riders cannot use the left two lanes.
• On three- or four-lane roads, the leftmost lane is restricted.
• On two-lane roads, riders may use either lane.
Directional signs across the city now show restricted motorcycle lanes, with the change introduced to reduce severe accidents involving delivery bikes.
4. Sharjah Introduces Dedicated Lanes
Sharjah rolled out designated lanes for motorbikes, buses and heavy vehicles on November 1.
- The far-right lane is reserved for buses and heavy vehicles.
• Motorbikes are barred from the far-left fast lane.
• Lane access depends on road size: two right lanes on four-lane roads, the middle or right lane on three-lane roads, and the right lane on two-lane roads.
Authorities are enforcing compliance using smart cameras and round-the-clock radar monitoring.
5. Smart Speed Limiters in Ajman Taxis
Ajman has launched the UAE’s first smart speed limiter system across taxis and limousines. The technology automatically adjusts the vehicle’s speed based on the road limit and location, aiming to reduce dangerous driving behaviour.
6. Abu Dhabi Truck Restrictions
Since December 1, 2025, trucks have been permanently banned from E10 (Al Raha Beach Road) and E11 (Sheikh Maktoum bin Rashid Road). Heavy vehicles are now redirected to E75 (Al Faya–Saih Shuaib Road) and Al Hafar (Al Adla).
Peak-hour bans also apply on E30 (Al Rawdah Road) in Musaffah, where truck movement is restricted during morning and evening rush hours.
The move seeks to protect road infrastructure and improve safety in areas with high traffic volumes.
7. Introduction of Solid ‘No Passing’ Lanes in Dubai
Dubai introduced new solid white lines no-passing zones on several major roads in November. These markings have been spotted on Ittihad Road, Baghdad Street, the Airport Tunnel, E311 and E611.
Crossing these lines, whether to change lanes or overtake, carries a Dh400 fine.
Some motorists have reported fines even without an official announcement, indicating automated enforcement is active.
8. Dubai Taxi Fare Revision
Dubai’s RTA has updated taxi fares for rides booked through smart apps.
Key changes include:
• Minimum fare increased from Dh12 to Dh13.
• New peak-hour surcharges and booking fees depending on the day.
• Peak hours from Monday to Thursday: 8am–9.59am and 4pm–7.59pm, with a Dh5 flagfall plus Dh7.5 surcharge.
• Off-peak hours retain a Dh5 flagfall with a Dh4 surcharge.
• Weekend and Friday timings have different surge periods.
• Night trips (midnight–5.59am) have Dh5.5 flagfall plus Dh4.5 surcharge.
9. Fines Identified Automatically in Parkin Zones
Since October, Dubai Police can instantly detect vehicles with outstanding fines or seizure orders when entering Parkin facilities. The integration between Dubai Police and Parkin PJSC allows officers to take immediate action.
The system also identifies vehicles wanted in criminal or serious traffic cases.
10. 24-Hour Paid Parking at Mosques in Dubai
From August 2025, paid parking at Dubai mosques now operates around the clock, seven days a week, outside prayer times.
Worshippers receive one hour of free parking during prayer. The parking zones are classified as:
- Zone M (standard): Dh2 per 30 minutes, Dh4 per hour
• Zone MP (premium): Same rate during off-peak hours; Dh3 per 30 minutes and Dh6 per hour during peak periods
A total of 59 mosque sites are part of the updated system.
