Dubai: Motorists faced heavy congestion across several major roads on Tuesday morning, October 6, as rush-hour traffic built up on routes connecting Sharjah and Dubai and across several key Dubai corridors.
Traffic was particularly slow on Al Ittihad Road (E11) around Al Nahda and Al Qusais, while Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road (E311) saw significant build-up around Al Qusais Industrial Area and Muwaileh. Traffic was also slow on roads through Sharjah’s industrial areas, with queues reported around Al Rashidiya and the Dubai International Airport area.
The morning congestion came alongside foggy conditions in parts of the emirate, making the commute more challenging for drivers. Motorists were advised to allow additional time for their journeys and check live traffic information before setting out.
Major Dubai roads affected
Traffic was moving slowly on several routes serving residential, commercial and industrial areas across Dubai.
Among the affected corridors were:
- E311 Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, including sections near Dubai Motor City, Arabian Ranches, Jumeirah Islands and Discovery Gardens.
- E611 Emirates Road, with congestion reported around Arabian Ranches 3 and Hamdan Sports Complex.
- D61 Hessa Street, particularly around Jumeirah Village Circle.
- D63 Umm Suqeim Street, near Dubai Hills and Al Barsha South.
- E66 Al Ain Road, between Ras Al Khor and Nad Al Sheba.
- E44 Al Khail Road, including areas around Ras Al Khor and Dubai Design District.
- Roads through Al Quoz, Meydan and Nad Al Sheba also experienced slower traffic.
Traffic maps also showed incident markers on sections of E311 near Al Qusais and Al Ain Road near Ras Al Khor. The available traffic report did not establish that these incidents were the sole cause of the wider congestion.
Fog adds to Tuesday morning driving conditions
The traffic disruption coincided with early-morning fog affecting parts of the UAE.
Weather forecasts for Tuesday had warned of humid conditions and the possibility of fog or mist in some areas.
For Dubai motorists, reduced visibility can make already busy roads more difficult to navigate, particularly during the morning peak when traffic volumes are at their highest.
Drivers travelling in foggy conditions should maintain a safe distance from vehicles ahead, reduce speed where visibility is poor and follow any temporary speed limits displayed on electronic road signs.
New truck restrictions already in force
The Tuesday congestion also comes days after Dubai introduced updated restrictions on truck movement across several roads.
The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and Dubai Police announced that new truck movement restrictions came into effect across Dubai from October 1, 2026, as part of measures aimed at improving traffic flow and road safety. Emirates Road is exempt from the decision.
The restrictions vary according to the road and traffic conditions. Some locations have round-the-clock restrictions, while Sheikh Zayed Road, Beirut Street and certain residential areas have restrictions from 6am to 10pm. Other urban roads, including Airport Street, Oman Street and Damascus Street, have restrictions during designated peak periods.
RTA said the measures are intended to reduce congestion on key roads, improve road capacity and shorten journey times while maintaining the movement of goods across Dubai.
What Dubai motorists should do
For commuters travelling during busy periods, allowing extra journey time is advisable when congestion is reported on major corridors.
Drivers should check live traffic conditions before leaving, particularly if their route involves E11, E311, E611, E44, E66 or the major roads connecting Dubai with Sharjah.
During foggy conditions, motorists should avoid sudden manoeuvres and maintain greater separation from surrounding vehicles. Variable speed limits and road instructions displayed by authorities should also be followed.
The Tuesday morning traffic situation remained a developing road-condition issue, with congestion varying by location and time as the rush hour progressed.
What happened on Dubai roads on October 6, 2026?
Heavy congestion affected several major Dubai roads during Tuesday morning rush hour, particularly routes connecting Sharjah and Dubai. Foggy conditions and traffic incidents on some routes added to difficult driving conditions.
Which Dubai roads had heavy traffic?
Congestion was reported on E11, E311, E611, E44, E66, D61 and D63, among other roads.
Was Sharjah affected by the traffic?
Yes. Traffic was particularly slow on routes connecting Sharjah with Dubai, including Al Ittihad Road and Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road.
Did fog affect Dubai traffic?
Early fog was reported in parts of Dubai during the morning commute, coinciding with the heavy traffic.
What should motorists do during heavy Dubai traffic?
Drivers should allow additional travel time, check live traffic information and maintain a safe following distance, particularly when visibility is reduced.
Are there new truck restrictions in Dubai?
Yes. RTA and Dubai Police introduced truck movement restrictions across Dubai from October 1, 2026, with timings varying by road and location. Emirates Road is exempt.
When do some Dubai truck restrictions apply?
Certain roads have restrictions from 6am to 10pm, while other urban roads have restrictions during specific morning, afternoon and evening peak periods.
