Motorists travelling across Abu Dhabi should prepare for new traffic arrangements affecting two major roads. Abu Dhabi Mobility has announced road closures, traffic diversions and reduced speed limits on Abu Dhabi–Al Ain Road (E22), along with a temporary right-lane closure on Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Street (E12) towards Saadiyat Island.
The changes are being introduced in different phases, with the E22 restrictions continuing for several months and the E12 closure affecting motorists over one weekend. Drivers who regularly use these routes should check the revised arrangements before travelling and allow additional time for their journeys.
Here is a breakdown of the Abu Dhabi E22 road changes, the E12 lane closure dates and the important details motorists need to know.
Abu Dhabi E22 Road Changes: What Is Changing?
Abu Dhabi Mobility has announced a road closure, traffic diversions and reduced speed limits on Abu Dhabi–Al Ain Road (E22). The changes will affect motorists travelling towards Abu Dhabi.
According to the authority’s announcement, the new traffic arrangements will begin at midnight on Saturday, October 31, 2026, and remain in effect until 5am on Saturday, January 30, 2027.
During this period, motorists will encounter changes to traffic movement along the affected sections. Drivers should pay attention to temporary road signs and follow the designated diversions rather than relying entirely on their usual routes.
The E22 road closure in Abu Dhabi is part of the announced traffic arrangements, so commuters should plan ahead, particularly if they regularly travel between Abu Dhabi and Al Ain.
E22 Speed Limits Reduced from 160km/h
One of the key changes concerns the speed limits on affected sections of Abu Dhabi–Al Ain Road.
Abu Dhabi Mobility has announced reductions from the previous 160km/h limit to 140km/h and 120km/h, depending on the road section.
The revised limits are intended to guide motorists through the affected areas while traffic arrangements are in place. Drivers should not assume that the previous speed limit remains applicable simply because they regularly use the highway.
Electronic information boards and roadside signs should be treated as the primary reference for the applicable speed limit. Motorists must adjust their speed whenever the displayed limit changes.
| Road | Previous speed limit | Revised speed limits |
| Abu Dhabi–Al Ain Road (E22) | 160km/h | 140km/h and 120km/h on affected sections |
Following the revised speed limits is particularly important around road diversions, temporary closures and areas where traffic patterns may change.
E22 Road Closure Abu Dhabi: Dates and Duration
The announced E22 traffic arrangements will remain in place for approximately three months.
| Detail | Information |
| Road | Abu Dhabi–Al Ain Road (E22) |
| Direction | Towards Abu Dhabi |
| Start | October 31, 2026, at midnight |
| End | January 30, 2027, at 5am |
| Main changes | Road closure, traffic diversions and reduced speed limits |
| Revised speed limits | 140km/h and 120km/h |
Since the restrictions will continue beyond the initial weekend, motorists should remain alert to traffic updates throughout the implementation period.
Drivers who commute between Abu Dhabi and Al Ain for work, education or other regular activities may need to review their usual routes and departure times. Even a familiar journey could take longer if traffic is redirected through alternative sections.
E12 Lane Closure: What Saadiyat Island Motorists Should Know
Alongside the E22 changes, Abu Dhabi Mobility has announced a temporary lane closure on Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Street (E12).
The right-hand lane heading towards Saadiyat Island will be closed from 2pm on Friday, October 30, 2026, until 6am on Monday, November 2, 2026.
This restriction is shorter than the E22 arrangements but could affect motorists travelling towards Saadiyat Island during the weekend.
Drivers heading to the island should be prepared for changes in traffic flow, particularly during busy afternoon and evening periods. Those travelling for work, leisure activities, hotel stays or other weekend plans should consider leaving earlier than usual.
E12 Lane Closure: Important Details
| Detail | Information |
| Road | Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Street (E12) |
| Affected lane | Right-hand lane |
| Direction | Towards Saadiyat Island |
| Start | October 30, 2026, at 2pm |
| End | November 2, 2026, at 6am |
| Restriction | Temporary right-lane closure |
Motorists should follow the temporary traffic signs and lane directions displayed along the route. Changing lanes at the last moment or ignoring road instructions can increase the risk of accidents and disrupt traffic flow.
How Will the Abu Dhabi Road Diversions Affect Motorists?
The new traffic arrangements may affect journey times for drivers using E22 and E12. However, the impact will depend on the route, travel time and traffic conditions.
For E22 users, the longer implementation period means commuters should become familiar with the revised road layout and speed limits. Drivers who regularly travel towards Abu Dhabi should check for diversion signs before approaching affected sections.
For E12 users, the temporary right-lane closure could require additional attention when approaching the Saadiyat Island direction. Motorists should stay in their designated lanes and follow instructions from road signs.
The Abu Dhabi road diversions are designed to manage vehicle movement while the announced restrictions are active. Following the designated routes helps maintain orderly traffic flow and reduces confusion around affected areas.
What Should Drivers Do During the E22 and E12 Restrictions?
Planning ahead can help motorists manage the temporary road changes more comfortably. Drivers should consider the following precautions:
1. Check Traffic Updates Before Travelling
Check the latest Abu Dhabi traffic updates before starting your journey. Traffic arrangements may change, and checking official announcements can help you understand the latest restrictions.
2. Allow Extra Travel Time
Avoid planning journeys with very tight schedules. Temporary closures and diversions can affect travel times, particularly during peak hours. Leaving earlier can help reduce the pressure of unexpected delays.
3. Follow Revised Speed Limits
Observe the updated 140km/h and 120km/h speed limits on the affected E22 sections. Always follow the speed displayed on official road signs and electronic boards.
4. Pay Attention to Diversion Signs
Temporary signs provide important directions around closed sections and redirected traffic. Follow the indicated routes and avoid making sudden lane changes.
5. Maintain a Safe Following Distance
Road restrictions can lead to slower traffic and sudden changes in vehicle movement. Maintaining sufficient distance from the vehicle ahead gives drivers more time to respond safely.
6. Plan Weekend Trips to Saadiyat Island
Motorists heading towards Saadiyat Island between October 30 and November 2 should account for the E12 right-lane closure. Allow extra time, particularly when travelling during busy periods.
Why Should Motorists Stay Updated on Abu Dhabi Road Construction?
Road closures, lane restrictions and diversions can affect daily travel, especially when they involve major commuter routes. Keeping track of Abu Dhabi road construction announcements and temporary traffic arrangements helps drivers make informed decisions.
For regular commuters, even a small change to a familiar route can affect departure times and daily schedules. Checking official updates also helps motorists avoid approaching restricted sections without knowing about the changes.
Drivers should rely on announcements from Abu Dhabi Mobility and follow instructions displayed on the roads. Navigation applications can provide additional route guidance, but motorists must always prioritise official traffic signs and directions.
What Motorists Need to Remember
The latest Abu Dhabi traffic announcements affect two important roads, but the restrictions have different timelines.
The E22 road closure, traffic diversions and reduced speed limits will begin on October 31, 2026, and continue until January 30, 2027. Speed limits on affected sections will be reduced from 160km/h to 140km/h and 120km/h.
Meanwhile, the E12 right-lane closure towards Saadiyat Island will run from October 30 at 2pm until November 2 at 6am.
Motorists should check their routes, follow revised speed limits and allow additional time when travelling through the affected areas. Staying informed and following official instructions can help make journeys safer and more predictable while these traffic arrangements remain in place.
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Frequently Asked Questions
When will the Abu Dhabi E22 road changes begin?
The E22 road changes will begin at midnight on Saturday, October 31, 2026, and continue until 5am on Saturday, January 30, 2027.
Which speed limits will apply on Abu Dhabi–Al Ain Road?
The speed limits on affected sections of E22 will be reduced from 160km/h to 140km/h and 120km/h, depending on the section.
When will the E12 lane closure take place?
The right lane on Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Street (E12), towards Saadiyat Island, will be closed from 2pm on Friday, October 30, until 6am on Monday, November 2, 2026.
Will the E22 road restrictions affect motorists travelling towards Abu Dhabi?
Yes. The announced E22 changes apply to the direction towards Abu Dhabi and include a road closure, traffic diversions and reduced speed limits.
What should motorists do during the Abu Dhabi road closures?
Drivers should check official traffic updates, follow diversion signs, observe revised speed limits and allow extra time for their journeys.
