Highways are the main means of transport for many residents and locals in the UAE. This helps to travel between the emirates with your own or rental car Dubai. With its continuous commitment to safety and excellence in infrastructure, the UAE has made its extensive highway network. It is one of the best in the world. Here are the main highways that you can choose to link the cities.
Highway System of the UAE
The United Arab Emirates has major highways connecting all with main cities and provinces. The old roadways are still being gone through validation of the government and private companies. They adhere to adequate road safety measures being put in place. Let’s find out the list of the significant highways connecting the emirates and their basics.
The UAE’s Expressways:
- Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road (E311)
- Al Khail Road (E44)
- Fujairah Dubai Highway (E84)
- Abu Dhabi Al Ain Highway (E22)
- E11 (Sheikh Zayed Road)
- E611 (Emirates Road)
1. Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road (E311)
Do you have plans on traveling between Dubai and other emirates? The Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road is the primary road junction from Dubai to the different parts of the UAE. This 558.4 km highway is known to be Emirates Road. It is a road that starts from Ras Al Khaimah E11. Then it goes through Umm Al Quwain, and connects Ajman, and Sharjah to Dubai. The end point of this road is the city of Abu Dhabi. It is also free of charge which is another reason why it is the first choice of a large number of travelers.
- Speed limit: 110 km/h
- Radar trigger: 131 km/h
- Speed margin: 20 km/h
- Number of lanes: 2
2. Al Khail Road (E44)
Constructed as the Dubai-Hatta Highway, Al Khail Road is a long route of 118 km. This road provides direct access from Hatta to Dubai and vice versa. It starts from Dubai sports city, passes through Jumeirah village triangle. Also, through the Ras Al Khor industrial area, and international city.
- Speed limit: 100 km/h
- Radar trigger: 121 km/h
- Speed margin: 20 km/h
- Number of lanes: 5
3. Fujairah Dubai Highway (E84)
The Dubai-Fujairah Highway constitutes a primary route for those traveling between these two emirates. This 40 km highway, inaugurated in 2018, provides the quickest connection between Dubai and Fujairah. It offers the view of Hatta Mountain and Sharjah on the way.
4. Abu Dhabi Al Ain Highway (E22)
Routing Abu Dhabi and Al Ain is one of the major highways in the UAE, E22. The starting point of this road is at Al Mafraq Bridge, Abu Dhabi. The end point is at Khalifa bin Zayed Street, Al Ain. The trip involves crossing the Al Wathba desert over $125$ km.
- Speed limit: 100 – 160 km/h
5. E11 – Dubai to Abu Dhabi Highway
The E11 is the longest highway in the United Arab Emirates. It Covers a distance from Al Silah in Abu Dhabi to Ras Al Khaimah. Various names are given to the road in different emirates such as:
Sheikh Maktoum Road in Abu Dhabi,
Sheikh Zayed Road in Dubai,
Sheikh Muhammad bin Salem Road in Ras Al Khaimah.
This primary road is the one that passes through several cities. Such as Bur Dubai, Sharjah-Al Majaz, and Abu Dhabi and is near the airport. The E11 runs for 558.4 km and the only emirate that is not connected is Fujairah.
- Speed limit: 100 km/h
- Speed margin: 20 km/h
- Number of lanes: 7
6. E611 – Emirates Bypass Road
For those who want to take a different route, the E611, often referred to as Emirates Bypass Road. It offers a 110-kilometer addition to the journey that sidesteps downtown Dubai altogether.
- Speed limit: 110 km/h
These highways are the network backbone for intercity travel throughout the UAE. These are the best being those which connect regions by safe routes.
The Speed Limits Observed on the UAE Highways
In the UAE, highway speed limits commonly lie in the region of 100-120 km/h. Depending on the kind of road being traveled. This is what you can typically expect.
- Highways and freeways: 100 – 120 km/h
- Rural roads: Maximum speed limit of 100 km/h
- Urban dual carriageways: 60 – 80 km/h
All the emirates comply with a 20 km/h speed buffer on the signed limit besides Abu Dhabi. In other words, with a 100 km/h limit, it will not be speed fine until you cross 120 km/h. But Abu Dhabi County will not give you this buffer and fines start just with the crossed speed limits.
Things to Consider When Driving on Highways
Driving on the highways especially in the UAE requires a careful concentration on safety rules. Here are the main points:
Speed Limits
Always keep the posted speed limits. Find out about the 20 km/h buffer in Abu Dhabi that does not apply.
Lane Discipline
The correct for your speed is the lane that you are staying in. Commonly, the left Lanes are used for fast vehicles and overtaking. While the slower traffic to the right ones.
Signs and Exits
Watch out for the road signs which show the exits, speed limits, and directions. If you miss the exit, you can detour for a long time.
Distance Between Vehicles
Keep a safe space in between you and the vehicle ahead to give enough time for the driver. Before you react in case of abrupt braking or other types of emergencies.
Use of Indicators
Always use your indicators changing the lanes or disperse. Your signal informs drivers on the road of your intention, which is crucial for the safety of highways.
Blind Spots
Make sure of your mirrors and blind areas mirroring the traffic. Before you go to change lanes, modest vehicles which are smaller may not be visible.
Weather Conditions
Be cautious of the sandy roads, fogs, and rains. It can decrease your visibility and slip on the road. If necessary, slow down and use hazard lights.
Toll Gates and Radars
Take care of toll gates and radar locations. In highways, radars are configured to observe and both speed and lane discipline.
Rest Stops
Plan for breaks when the trip is long. Use the designated rest areas or the petrol stations instead to avoid fatigue. As they might result in accidents.
Overtaking Safely
Only overtake from the left and ensure the road ahead is clear. Never Overtake in areas having bad visibility like curves.
Emergency Lanes
Only use the emergency lane for vehicle breakdowns or emergencies. Misusing this lane could lead to severe fines.
Vehicle Maintenance
Check your vehicle’s condition mainly being the right tire pressure, working lights, and fuel levels.
Conclusion
The UAE has done a good job in building roads and thus its highway system remains a key aspect. This helps to interconnect major cities and other regions across the emirates. Therefore, making travel more accessible and efficient. The drive across the E11 (Sheikh Zayed Road), which is the busy road that connects Dubai to Abu Dhabi. The E611 (Emirates Bypass Road) will be easy and covered with the latest infrastructure in safety and speed.
The country’s well-designed and well-planned roads provide a hassle-free driving experience. Thus, making it much simpler and devoid of stress. Following traffic rules and road safety guidelines enhances your journey on these world-class roads.