Islamabad Police has announced a special traffic diversion plan from 11am to 3pm for the UAE President’s visit, advising motorists to use alternate routes and allow extra travel time.
Special Traffic Plan to Remain in Effect from 11am to 3pm
Islamabad Police has announced a detailed traffic diversion plan for the federal capital in connection with the visit of the President of the United Arab Emirates. According to officials, the special arrangements will remain in force from 11am to 3pm and are aimed at maintaining security and keeping traffic flowing during the high-profile movement. Commuters have been advised to plan their journeys carefully during this window, as several key arteries of the capital will experience diversions and partial closures. The police have stressed that the arrangements are temporary, but citizens should stay informed and cooperate fully to avoid unnecessary delays and congestion on the roads.
Diversions on Islamabad Expressway, Murree Road and Club Road
Under the traffic plan, diversions will be placed on some of the city’s busiest routes, including the Islamabad Expressway, Murree Road and Club Road. These corridors are widely used by office workers, commercial traffic and residents travelling between Islamabad and Rawalpindi. During the specified hours, motorists may not be able to use their usual entry and exit points on these roads and will be redirected towards alternative routes. Traffic police officials will be deployed at diversion points to guide drivers, manage lane changes and reduce the risk of bottlenecks. The authorities have urged motorists to follow signage, obey instructions from traffic wardens and avoid stopping unnecessarily along the route of the special convoy.
Alternate Routes Suggested for Commuters from Rawat, IJP and Srinagar Highway
The advisory includes specific guidance for motorists approaching Islamabad from different directions. Commuters travelling from Rawat towards the Islamabad Expressway have been instructed to use the Rawalpindi–Peshawar Road as an alternate route during the restricted hours. Likewise, motorists heading towards the Expressway from IJP Road and Srinagar Highway have been advised to use inner-city service roads and adjoining service lanes instead of the main corridors. By distributing traffic across alternative links, the police aim to reduce pressure on the primary routes that are part of the security plan for the visiting dignitary. Drivers have been encouraged to check their routes in advance and consider leaving slightly earlier than usual to adjust to the changed traffic pattern.
Police Advise Extra Travel Time and Use of Traffic Helpline
Islamabad Traffic Police has strongly recommended that citizens allow an additional 20 to 25 minutes of travel time when setting out for their destinations during the diversion period. This buffer is intended to help commuters absorb any delays caused by detours, security checks or temporary slowdowns along alternative routes. The police have assured the public that officers will be posted on major arteries, intersections and diversion points to guide and assist road users throughout the day. For real-time updates and assistance, commuters can contact the Traffic Helpline at 1915 or call Pukar-15. Officials say that using these helplines can help motorists avoid blocked roads, identify smoother alternatives and get quick clarification on temporary route changes.
Security and Mobility Plan Linked to UAE President’s Visit
Authorities have clarified that the traffic arrangements form part of a wider security and mobility plan for the visit of the President of the United Arab Emirates to Islamabad. Given the presence of high-level delegations and accompanying protocol, movement restrictions and diversions are being enforced as a standard security measure. Earlier, the federal government also declared 26 December a local holiday for the Islamabad Capital Territory, helping to reduce regular office traffic on the roads. The police have appealed to the public to show patience and understanding, noting that such temporary inconveniences are common during important foreign visits. Citizens have been encouraged to stay updated through official police channels, avoid spreading rumours on social media and strictly follow traffic rules to support a smooth and secure visit programme.
