Dense Morning Fog Disrupts Abu Dhabi Traffic

On the morning of September 1, 2025, Abu Dhabi woke up to unusually dense fog blanketing large parts of the city, significantly reducing visibility and creating hazardous conditions for motorists. The National Center of Meteorology (NCM) issued a red alert early in the day, warning that visibility in several areas had dropped below 1,000 meters. Key roads, including Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed International Road and stretches from Al Mugheirah Bridge to Jabal Al Dhannah, were particularly affected, leading to slow-moving traffic and delays for commuters.The fog persisted until approximately 8:30 AM, coinciding with peak morning travel hours. Abu Dhabi Police swiftly responded by advising drivers to exercise extreme caution, reduce their speed, maintain safe distances, and pay close attention to variable speed limits displayed on electronic traffic signs. Authorities emphasized that adherence to these precautions was essential to prevent accidents during the foggy conditions.

The fog lasted until about 8:30 AM, coinciding with heavy morning travel times. Abu Dhabi Police quickly advised drivers to be very careful, slow down, keep safe distances, and pay close attention to changing speed limits on electronic traffic signs. Authorities stressed that following these guidelines was crucial to avoid accidents during the fog.

This weather event highlighted how vulnerable urban traffic can be to sudden changes in the environment. It also showed how important it is for authorities to communicate promptly. Local residents noted that the fog affected commuting and created a strange atmosphere in the morning, with recognizable landmarks partially hidden in mist. Photos shared on social media showed cars moving cautiously through nearly ghostly streets, with headlights cutting through the thick fog.

Meteorologists said the fog resulted from a mix of high humidity and cooler overnight temperatures. These conditions often lead to low-lying mist in the early hours. While such fog isn’t extremely rare in Abu Dhabi, it tends to be worse in transitional seasons and can be especially risky if drivers aren’t ready.

Overall, the morning of September 1 reminded everyone of the UAE’s unpredictable weather and the need to stay alert on the roads. Authorities commended drivers who followed safety measures and urged everyone to remain cautious, particularly in early morning hours when fog is most likely to form.