Dubai’s radars are commonly set 20 km/h above the limit; Abu Dhabi’s trigger at 1 km/h over.
The change happens at the emirate border on the E11 and the E311.
A 6 km stretch of the E311 near Baniyas dropped from 120 to 100 km/h on 14 September 2026.
In fog, Abu Dhabi cuts limits to 80 km/h and the radars follow.
The drive between Dubai and Abu Dhabi — along Sheikh Zayed Road (E11) or Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Road (E311) — is one of the most travelled in the country. It is also where drivers most often get a fine they did not expect.
The border changes the radar
In Dubai, radars on the main roads are commonly set about 20 km/h above the posted limit. Cross into Abu Dhabi and that margin is gone: The National confirmed in September 2026 that Abu Dhabi’s radars trigger at 1 km/h over the limit. A driver who has spent an hour at “limit plus 15” in Dubai keeps that habit — and the first Abu Dhabi camera records it.
Sources: The National (11 September 2026), Gulf News / Dubai Police (12 September 2026).
Recent changes on the route
14 September 2026: the E311 between Tawi Al Qaymah Street and Al Khayr Street (about 6 km near Baniyas Cemetery) dropped from 120 to 100 km/h in both directions.
April 2025: the 120 km/h minimum speed in the left lanes of the E311 was removed.
Fog
Early-morning fog is common on this corridor. Abu Dhabi then lowers limits on major roads, including the E311, to 80 km/h, and the radars follow automatically. Watch the electronic signs. See fog speed limits.
A calm way to drive it
Set cruise control to the posted limit, not the Dubai radar speed, before you reach the border — and let a warning tell you about each camera early enough that you never brake for one.
Questions and answers
Is the speed buffer the same in Dubai and Abu Dhabi?
No. Dubai commonly sets radars 20 km/h above the limit; Abu Dhabi’s trigger at 1 km/h over.
What changed on the E311 in September 2026?
A 6 km stretch between Tawi Al Qaymah Street and Al Khayr Street was lowered from 120 to 100 km/h from 14 September 2026.
