Motorists across Dubai are facing long queues and frustrating delays this morning, with heavy congestion building up on several major highways. Data from navigation platforms confirms slow-moving traffic on Sheikh Zayed Road (E11), Al Khail Road and Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311), with bottlenecks also reported across feeder roads leading into central Dubai.
Sheikh Zayed Road faces peak hour pressure
Sheikh Zayed Road, the city’s busiest highway, is once again experiencing peak-hour stress. Vehicles moving inbound toward Business Bay and Downtown are stuck in extended tailbacks, with delays stretching across multiple interchanges. Drivers heading into the city centre are urged to plan ahead and allow for extra travel time.
Al Khail Road slows through Al Quoz
Al Khail Road is also heavily affected, particularly around Al Quoz 4, where merging traffic is causing long lines. Congestion here is spilling over onto connecting corridors, leaving commuters with limited options to bypass the slowdown.
Gridlock on Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road
Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311) is facing severe congestion in sections near Al Barsha and Meydan. As one of the main entry points for traffic from Sharjah and other northern emirates, the E311 often bears the brunt of the morning rush, and today is no exception.
Secondary routes also under pressure

The E44 and E66 corridors are showing noticeable delays, adding to the pressure on Dubai’s wider network. Local roads in Ras Al Khor, Al Aweer and Muhaisnah are similarly affected, with traffic backing up at intersections feeding into the major highways.
Those travelling from Sharjah are encountering particularly difficult conditions. Gridlock has been reported around Bu Shaghara, Al Nahda and the stretch near Sahara Centre, leading to extended journey times for motorists heading toward Deira and central Dubai.
traffic is worse this morning
Several factors have contributed to the congestion being worse than usual today. A surge in vehicles during the morning rush, particularly from Sharjah and Ajman, has intensified the load on Dubai’s highways. Key junctions along Sheikh Zayed Road and E311 are under pressure, while construction and lane diversions on certain stretches are adding to the delays.
Dubai’s rapid population growth and the continuous rise in registered vehicles also mean that arterial roads reach capacity quickly during peak times. Even minor incidents or breakdowns during this period can cause widespread knock-on effects across the network.
Commuter advice to save time
Motorists are advised to adopt a flexible approach to avoid being caught in long delays. Practical tips include:
- Adjusting travel schedules by leaving earlier or later than peak hours.
- Using real-time navigation apps to identify alternate routes and avoid bottlenecks.
- Exploring less congested parallel corridors that can ease pressure on Sheikh Zayed and Al Khail Roads.
- Considering public transport options such as the Dubai Metro, which continues to provide reliable travel during peak congestion.
- Driving patiently and maintaining safe distances, as sudden lane changes often worsen the situation.
How long will delays last?
Based on current flow, congestion is expected to remain heavy through the morning rush and gradually ease after 9:30 am. However, areas near Deira and Sharjah crossings may see prolonged traffic into late morning. Motorists travelling toward central Dubai should plan for continued delays until mid-day.
Long-term measures to tackle congestion
Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) continues to introduce large-scale projects to improve traffic flow. Intersection upgrades on Al Khail Road, expanded lanes on Emirates Road, and new capacity provided by the Infinity Bridge are part of wider efforts to cut journey times.
The city is also encouraging residents to use public transport more frequently, while new metro and bus network expansions are expected to absorb some of the peak-hour demand in the years ahead.
This morning’s congestion highlights the ongoing challenge of keeping pace with Dubai’s rapid growth and rising vehicle numbers. For commuters, small adjustments such as planning travel times, using public transport where possible, and staying alert on the roads can help reduce the stress of long delays.
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