Abu Dhabi’s roads are entering one of their busiest periods of the year as pupils head back to classrooms, and drivers can expect a few changes during the daily school rush.
New road improvements, tighter enforcement, and hefty penalties are all part of the measures now in place to make journeys safer and help keep traffic flowing.
A Costly Mistake Around School Buses
If you spot a school bus with its stop sign extended, it is time to put your foot on the brake. Motorists must come to a complete stop when driving and leave a five-metre gap from the bus.
Ignoring the rule could result in a AED 1,000 fine and 10 black points, making it one traffic rule drivers will definitely want to remember during the morning and afternoon rush.
The message from authorities is simple: slow down and give school buses plenty of room as children get on and off.
New Lanes Are Helping Traffic Move
There is also some relief for motorists travelling along the E20. The interchange linking Khalifa City and Zayed City has reopened with additional capacity, giving drivers more room to move through an area expected to see increased traffic as schools return.
The wider E20 upgrade is also increasing the highway from three lanes to five in each direction, as the project forms part of wider efforts to improve movement across the city.
Give Yourself More Time This Week
For drivers, the return of school means the usual journey could take a little longer, particularly during peak hours. Roads surrounding schools are likely to be busier, while drop-offs and pick-ups can create additional congestion.
If you are back to the routine of taking the kids to school or eager to work on time, leaving a little earlier and staying patient could make all the difference.
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