Traffic on UAE roads has increased noticeably as residents return from summer vacations and international trips, gearing up for the new school term.
Commuters are experiencing significantly longer travel times, with some noting their daily commutes have more than doubled.
“A couple of weeks ago, traveling from point A to point B was hassle-free, but this week bottlenecks are reappearing, especially on routes that were recently clear. During holidays, my commute took just 20 minutes. Now, with more residents back and schools reopening soon, the same trip takes 35 to 45 minutes, adding an extra 15 to 25 minutes in traffic—which accumulates over the week,” shared Pradnya Naik, a UAE resident of 30 years.
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Dubai International Airport (DXB) has announced preparations for a busy end to the summer, as families and students return before the academic year starts. From August 13 to 25, DXB expects to welcome over 3.6 million passengers, with daily averages hitting 280,000.
This seasonal surge follows a record-breaking first half of 2025, where Dubai welcomed 9.88 million international overnight visitors—a six percent year-on-year rise. DXB also handled over 46 million passengers during this period.
Shereen S., another long-term UAE resident, recounted a particularly tiring journey this week.
“It was exhausting. My trip from Abu Dhabi to Deira, Dubai, took more than three hours—a journey that usually lasts just two hours. While there was a minor accident, the delay wasn’t due to that. It’s mainly because residents are returning from vacations, getting back to work, and preparing for school reopening next week,” said Shereen, a European expat.
Ahmed Malik, a Pakistani resident, also observed a notable increase in his travel time between Sharjah and Dubai.
“Traffic was much lighter from July to mid-August when many were away and schools were closed. But this week, it’s intensified. Starting next week, I expect my commute to increase by at least an hour. We all know how slow traffic can be between Sharjah and Dubai during peak hours,” Malik stated.
Adjusting schedules to tackle traffic
To manage the growing congestion, some residents are altering their travel plans.
“I plan to leave earlier from Sharjah or delay my return from Dubai. I’m also considering stopping at malls for groceries on the way, to avoid bumper-to-bumper traffic,” Malik added.
Pradnya Naik has also started adjusting her routine to dodge peak traffic times.
“I now leave home a bit later, and it’s made a noticeable difference. I’m able to bypass the worst congestion,” she said. “While I know traffic is inevitable as the city gets busier, drivers need to be more cautious and responsible. Reckless driving—sudden lane changes, tailgating, and speeding—only makes it worse,” she added.
