Islamabad Traffic Diversion Plan for UAE President Visit: What You Need to Know
Islamabad faces traffic changes today from 11 am to 3 pm for the UAE President's visit. Diversions hit Expressway, Murree Road, and Club Road. Use alternate routes like Rawalpindi Peshawar Road or inner city lanes. Add 20-25 minutes to your trip. Police are on site to help.

Table of Contents
- Why the Diversions Matter
- Key Routes and Alternatives
- How to Stay Ahead of Congestion
- Security and the Bigger Picture
- What Locals Are Saying
- Wrapping Up the Day
- More on Islamabad Events
- Tips for Future Disruptions
- Final Thoughts
Traffic in Islamabad can be a hassle on normal days. But today, December 26, things get trickier. The police have rolled out a diversion plan because of a visit from the President of the United Arab Emirates. It's part of a special program in the capital. And yes, it's a local holiday here in the Islamabad Capital Territory. So if you're out and about, plan ahead.
The diversions run from 11 am to 3 pm. That's four hours where key roads will shift. Main spots affected? Islamabad Expressway, Murree Road, and Club Road. Police say it's all to keep things secure and moving smoothly during the event.
Why the Diversions Matter
Visits like this don't happen every day. The UAE President is here for important talks or events. Security comes first. That's why roads close or reroute. It's not just about traffic; it's about safety for everyone.
But it impacts daily life. People heading to work, shops, or family might hit snags. The holiday helps, since fewer folks are commuting. Still, if you're traveling, know the plan. Police urge adding 20 to 25 minutes to your trip. Better safe than stuck.
Key Routes and Alternatives
Let's break it down by road. First, the Islamabad Expressway. If you're coming from Rawat toward the Expressway, skip it. Head to Rawalpindi Peshawar Road instead. It's a solid backup and keeps you moving.
Next, from IJP Road or Srinagar Highway? Use the inner city service roads. Or nearby service lanes. These paths are less crowded and get you around the blocks.
Murree Road sees changes too. Commuters from that side should watch for signs. Same for Club Road, it's central, so diversions there could back up nearby streets.
Police have officers at key points. They'll guide you. Wave them down if lost. It's their job to help.
How to Stay Ahead of Congestion
No one likes sitting in traffic. Here are quick tips. First, check updates before leaving. Apps like Google Maps might show real-time changes. Or follow Islamabad Police on social media for alerts.
Second, leave early. That extra 20-25 minutes? Build it in. If your meeting's at noon, aim for 11:30 arrival.
Third, carpool if possible. Fewer cars mean fewer jams. Or use public transport buses, which might stick to side routes.
And if you're a visitor? Park farther out and walk. The capital is walkable in spots. Plus, it's a holiday, so enjoy the downtime.
Security and the Bigger Picture
This isn't random. It's a full security and mobility plan. High-profile visits need tight setups. Roads clear for official convoys. Checkpoints might pop up.
But it's good for the city. Ties with the UAE bring benefits, like trade or aid. Past visits have led to deals on energy or jobs.
Police are prepared. Officers deploy everywhere. They handle flow and answer questions. Respect their directions; it keeps everyone safe.
The holiday declaration helps too. Offices close, schools shut. Less rush hour chaos. If you're off, maybe stay home or explore quiet areas.
What Locals Are Saying
Folks in Islamabad know the drill. One resident told me last time this happened, traffic eased by evening. But mornings got messy. "Plan your day around it," he said.
Online, people share tips. X posts warn about Expressway backups. Some joke about the holiday bonus. But most appreciate the heads-up from police.
If you're affected, voice concerns politely. Police listen. It's a team effort to make the day work.
Wrapping Up the Day
By 3 pm, roads should normalize. The event wraps, and traffic flows again. But until then, patience is key.
Remember, these plans protect us all. Next time a big visit comes, we'll be ready. For now, use those alternates and add time.
If questions linger, call police helplines. They're there. Safe travels out there.
More on Islamabad Events
Big visits like this spotlight the capital. UAE ties run deep. Think investments in infrastructure. Or cultural exchanges.
Last year, similar events boosted the local economy. Hotels fill, shops buzz. Even with diversions, it's a win.
But traffic woes persist. City planners eye long-term fixes, like better public transit. For now, we adapt.
Tips for Future Disruptions
Learn from today. Keep a go-to list of alternate routes. Apps help track patterns.
Join community groups for updates. Neighbors share real-time info.
And support police efforts. Their work keeps the city running.
Final Thoughts
December 26 marks more than a holiday. It's a day of connection. UAE's President's visit strengthens bonds.
Traffic shifts are temporary. The benefits last. So navigate smart, and enjoy the day. For more updates, visit DrivePK.com
Tags
Share this article
About the Author
Najeeb Khan
Automotive enthusiast and writer
Comments (0)
Login Required
You need to be logged in to comment on this article.
No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts!
Related Articles

Karachi Red Line BRT Project Update 2026: Sharjeel Inam Memon Shares Timeline and Challenges
Sharjeel Inam Memon updated on the Red Line BRT in Karachi. The project could need another 18 months to complete after facing big challenges. Side roads will be ready before Eid. Key work on University Road finishes soon. Efforts continue to clear bus import hurdles

Islamabad Electric Tram Service 2026: CDA Starts Feasibility Study for New Routes
Capital Development Authority has begun work on an electric tram service in Islamabad. The move follows direct orders from the federal interior minister. The feasibility study must finish in three months. Routes planned from Islamabad Airport and Rawat to Lake View Park. The system will be fully cashless.

Thalian Interchange Work Starts Next Week on Rawalpindi Ring Road, Cost Now Rs 47 Billion
Work on the Rs 5 billion Thalian Interchange of the Rawalpindi Ring Road starts next week. The divisional administration will acquire 358 extra kanals near the motorway, raising the total project cost to Rs 47 billion. More than 85% of the road is already finished. Bookings for toll and e-tags are expected to follow the Lahore model at Rs 80 per vehicle.