RTA to unify speed limit at Umm Suqeim, Qudra Roads as 80 kmh

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has decided to standardize the speed limit at Umm Suqeim Road and Al Qudra Road in the sector extending from the Sheikh Zayed Road to Emirates Road (ex-Dubai Bypass Road) at 80 kmph starting June 1, 2015. In this regard, the RTA is undertaking continuous reviews of speed limits on some vital roads and highways in the Emirate of Dubai to realign the speed limit with the road and traffic conditions and the surrounding environment in cooperation with strategic partners.

Engineer Maitha bin Udai, CEO of Traffic and Roads Agency, said: “The decision has been taken in implementation of the standards of the Dubai Speed Management Guide. This guide takes into consideration a host of factors highlighted by the classification of the road (express, arterial, highway, local), the number of exit and entry points as well as junctions, the nature of the surrounding environment whether it is a commercial or residential, and the street whether it is inside or outside the city. Factors under consideration also include vehicular and pedestrian traffic volumes, and statistics of traffic accidents witnessed by the area along with their analysis during a specific period.”

“The driving speed on the area in between Umm Suqeim and Al Qudra Roads starting from Sheikh Zayed Road to Emirates Road (in both directions) was variable, especially in those areas which have witnessed subsequent development and expansion projects. Thus it has become imperative to standardize the speed limit over the whole stretch of the road in keeping with the highest international standards and practices which are principally set to ensure traffic safety in the first respect, and curb traffic accidents,” added Maitha.

“Statistics reveal that Umm Suqeim Road (between Al Khail Road and Mohammed bin Zayed Road) witnessed 30 traffic accidents resulting in three fatalities, one immoderate injury, and eight moderate injuries. This warranted taking corrective measures on this location in accordance with the Speed Management Guide; which maps out a flexible strategy and mechanism setting speed limits in the Emirate of Dubai. This was very much relevant as the extension of Al Qudra Road has residential complexes under construction, which warranted a decision setting a cap on the speed of the area.

“In coordination with the General HQ of the Dubai Police, a number of preventive measures to ensure the safety of road users. Such measures include changing speed limit signs to 80 kmh as well as directional signs guiding road users at the highest international standards with the aim of ensuring safe & smooth mobility to all,” added Maitha.