ABU DHABI: Dense morning fog reduced visibility across parts of Abu Dhabi on Wednesday, September 23, slowing traffic on several major roads as commuters travelled during the early morning rush.
Abu Dhabi Police issued a fog alert advising motorists to drive carefully because of reduced horizontal visibility. Drivers were also told to follow the changing speed limits displayed on electronic road signs and information boards.
The weather conditions affected traffic along several key corridors. Congestion was reported on the E11 between Old Rahba and Al Shahama New, while traffic also slowed around the Rabdan interchange and through areas including Mohamed Bin Zayed City and Mazyad Mall.
Other affected stretches included parts of the E22, E30, E75 and E20, with slower traffic also reported around Zayed International Airport and Al Khaleej Al Arabi Street.
Visibility expected to improve after morning fog
The NCM forecast indicated that foggy conditions could continue until approximately 8:30am, with visibility expected to gradually improve as temperatures rise later in the morning.
The episode comes as higher overnight humidity increases the likelihood of fog and mist across parts of the UAE during the early hours. The NCM had also warned in September that humid conditions could produce fog in coastal and inland areas.
For commuters, the combination of low visibility and heavy morning traffic can make sudden braking, lane changes and overtaking more hazardous. Abu Dhabi Police’s established guidance during fog includes reducing speed, maintaining a safe distance from the vehicle ahead and avoiding unnecessary overtaking.
Police advise drivers to adjust to road conditions
Motorists travelling through fog-affected areas should pay close attention to electronic speed-limit signs rather than relying on normal speeds for a particular road.
Drivers are also advised to:
- Reduce speed according to the prevailing visibility and posted variable limits.
- Leave a larger gap between vehicles.
- Avoid sudden lane changes and unnecessary overtaking.
- Use low-beam headlights in foggy conditions.
- Avoid using a mobile phone while driving.
- If visibility becomes dangerously poor, move to a safe location away from moving traffic rather than stopping in a live lane.
Abu Dhabi Police has repeatedly stressed the importance of maintaining adequate stopping distance during fog because reduced visibility can limit the time available to react to hazards.
The latest disruption primarily affected the Abu Dhabi morning road commute. Conditions can vary significantly between locations, particularly on open desert and inter-emirate routes, so motorists making early journeys should check official weather and traffic updates before setting out.
What happened in Abu Dhabi on September 23, 2026?
Dense morning fog reduced visibility across parts of Abu Dhabi and slowed traffic on several major roads during the morning commute. Abu Dhabi Police issued a caution alert for motorists.
How long was the fog expected to last?
The NCM forecast cited in the report indicated that foggy conditions could continue until around 8:30am, with visibility expected to improve gradually afterward.
Which Abu Dhabi roads were affected?
Slow traffic was reported on sections of the E11, E22, E30, E75 and E20, as well as around several major interchanges and areas including Zayed International Airport.
What did Abu Dhabi Police advise motorists to do?
Police urged drivers to exercise caution, follow variable speed limits displayed on electronic signs and adjust their driving to the reduced visibility.
Should drivers use high-beam headlights in fog?
Drivers should use low-beam headlights in fog rather than high beams, which can reflect off fog and further reduce visibility. Abu Dhabi Police has included low-beam use in its fog-driving guidance.
What should motorists do if visibility becomes extremely poor?
Drivers should avoid continuing in dangerously poor visibility. If they need to stop, they should move to a safe position away from moving traffic rather than stopping in a live lane.
