Speed limit lowered from Al Ain to Dubai

The speed limit on the motorway between Al Ain and Dubai has been temporarily reduced to 100kph from 120kph during roadworks.

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AL AIN // The speed limit on the motorway between Al Ain and Dubai has been temporarily reduced to 100kph from 120kph during roadworks. Col Hussein al Harithi, the head of the Abu Dhabi Police traffic engineering department, warned motorists yesterday that speed cameras on the entire route had been adjusted to reflect the new limit. The road is being widened to four lanes from two and work is due to be completed next year.

"Traffic is being diverted on some stretches of the highway, while other sections are being reduced to a single lane," Col al Harithi said, adding that for a while there would be no breakdown lane on either side of the highway. Motorists generally welcomed the temporary 100kph limit. "There have been a number of accidents on that highway," said Hatem Hijazi of Al Tawash Automobile Rental in Al Ain.

"The reduction is a good measure, as many are unable to control their cars around turns when the road is narrow and there is another car next to them." Ghadeer al Kheshen, who lives in Al Ain, said the move was overdue. "I support the reduction, considering how many accidents have occurred on that highway. "This was an important move that will save lives. Too many people were driving too quickly trying to get to Dubai."

At the beginning of the highway, a large, orange signpost warns motorists of the new speed limit. ealghalib@thenational.ae