When renting or buying in Dubai, traffic and congestion levels is a key consideration in picking an area. Often, many people pay higher rents to live in areas that are relatively immune from the traffic.
Traffic is and has long been a major topic of discussion in Dubai. The rapidly expanding population in recent years has meant that traffic, in some areas, can be unbearable.
Main Flow of Traffic on Sheikh Zayed Road
Traditionally the traffic along the Sheikh Zayed Road is the biggest issue. Many people choose to stay in Sharjah and Deira, due to cheaper rents, and commute toward the Business Bay and Marina areas in the morning. The traffic is very heavy with an average commute from Sharjah to the Marina taking in excess of 2 hours during rush hour. In the evening, the heavy traffic is in the other direction as these people return for home.
The heaviest traffic occurs around the world trade centre owing to the large roundabout here that can be a little chaotic.
People living in the new areas (Marina, Palm Jumeirah end) of Dubai generally miss this rush hour as they travel against the grain of the heavy traffic.
Traffic Notes by Area
Bur Dubai / Deira:
This area generally has a heavy flow of traffic at all times to due it being densely populated and served by older narrower roads. After rush hour, the many retail, dining and leisure options attract heavy flow of traffic.
Satwa:
Expect heavy traffic during rush hour and also on weekend evenings when just about everyone in the area is out and about.
Jumierah:
This area is generally quiet and is not known for heavy traffic problems.
Dubai Marina:
The Dubai Marina is beginning to suffer from traffic problems as more and more residents move in to the many high rise towers. However, the delays aren't too long yet and heavy traffic only tends to occur during peak rush hours.
Palm Jumeirah:
The Palm, while busy, is not known for any traffic problems. It is served by connections from the beach road and also directly from the Sheikh Zayed road. This makes it relatively easy and traffic free to commute to and from the Palm Jumeirah.
Emirate Hills Areas:
Generally very quiet and low traffic area. However, some communities in rush hour can cause delays. In particular the Springs communities that are deep in to the area (at the back of Emirates Hills) often have delays only during rush hour.
