Dubai RTA Opens 3-Lane Bridge To Sheikh Rashid Road
Dubai RTA Opens 3-Lane Bridge To Sheikh Rashid Road. Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has taken a significant step to enhance traffic movement by inaugurating a 1,210-metre-long, three-lane bridge that connects Infinity Bridge through Al Mina Street to Sheikh Rashid Road and Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Street. The bridge has a capacity of 4,800 vehicles per hour, significantly improving the city’s road network efficiency and reducing travel time for commuters.
This new infrastructure development is a crucial component of Phase 4 of the Al Shindagha Corridor Improvement Project, a massive initiative aimed at upgrading Dubai’s road network to meet the demands of its rapidly growing urban landscape. The overall project covers 4.8 kilometers and includes the construction of five bridges spanning 3.1 kilometers, with a total vehicle capacity of 19,400 per hour across all lanes.
Features of the New Bridge
The newly opened bridge is designed to:
- Enhance traffic flow from Infinity Bridge via Al Mina Street to Sheikh Rashid Road.
- Improve connectivity to important residential and commercial districts such as Al Hudaiba, Al Raffa, Al Jafiliya, Al Mankhool, Al Kifaf, and Al Karama.
- Reduce congestion on major roads by providing an alternative route with higher capacity.
With Dubai’s continuous expansion, such projects play a vital role in ensuring seamless mobility and efficient transportation infrastructure for residents and businesses.
Phase 4 of the Al Shindagha Corridor Improvement Project
The Al Shindagha Corridor Improvement Project is among RTA’s largest and most complex road infrastructure projects. It covers a total of 13 kilometers, stretching along:
- Sheikh Rashid Road
- Al Mina Street
- Al Khaleej Street
- Cairo Street
This massive development involves the enhancement of 15 intersections and has been divided into five phases to ensure smooth execution and minimal disruption to daily traffic.
Bridges and Road Improvements in Phase 4
| Bridge Name | Length | Number of Lanes | Vehicle Capacity (Per Hour) | Key Function |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Infinity Bridge to Sheikh Rashid Road | 1,210 meters | 3 lanes | 4,800 vehicles | Connects Al Mina Street with Sheikh Rashid Road |
| Bridge from Infinity Bridge to Al Wasl Street | 780 meters | 3 lanes | 4,800 vehicles | Enhances traffic movement towards Al Wasl Street |
| Bridge from Jumeirah Street to Al Mina Street | 985 meters | 2 lanes | 3,200 vehicles | Facilitates movement from Jumeirah Street to Al Mina Street |
| Bridge from Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Street to Al Mina Street | 1,335 meters | 3 lanes | 4,800 vehicles | Connects Sheikh Rashid Road to Al Mina Street and Falcon Intersection |
| Bridge from Al Mina Street to Sheikh Rashid Road | 605 meters | 2 lanes | 3,200 vehicles | Improves access between Al Mina Street and Sheikh Rashid Road |
Road Enhancements in Phase 4
In addition to bridge construction, Phase 4 includes:
- 4.8 kilometers of road upgrades
- Surface intersection improvements at Jumeirah Street, Al Mina Street, and Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah Street
- Two new pedestrian bridges on Sheikh Rashid Road and Al Mina Street
These improvements ensure that both vehicle and pedestrian traffic flow smoothly, enhancing road safety and reducing congestion.
Leadership Support and Vision for the Project
The Al Shindagha Corridor Improvement Project is being implemented under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai. The project also receives close follow-up from Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Deputy Prime Minister.
Statement by RTA Director General
Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of RTA, highlighted the significance of the project, stating:
“The new bridge enhances traffic flow and facilitates movement from Infinity Bridge to Sheikh Rashid Road. This initiative aligns with Dubai’s long-term vision of urban development while addressing the needs of a growing population.”
He further emphasized that 90% of Phase 4 has been completed, with the remaining two bridges set to open in the second quarter of this year.
Impact on Dubai Transportation Network
Improved Connectivity
Once fully completed, the Al Shindagha Corridor Improvement Project will provide seamless connectivity between key areas such as:
- Deira and Bur Dubai
- Dubai Islands
- Deira Waterfront
- Dubai Maritime City
- Port Rashid
This connectivity is essential for businesses, logistics, and residents who commute between these areas daily.
Travel Time Reduction
A major benefit of this project is its ability to cut travel time significantly. Current travel times along the corridor can take up to 104 minutes, but once the project is completed, it will be reduced to just 16 minutes by 2030.
Economic Benefits
According to RTA estimates, the Al Shindagha Corridor Improvement Project is expected to generate Dh45 billion in economic benefits over the next 20 years. These benefits include:
- Increased real estate value along the corridor
- Improved business opportunities due to better accessibility
- Enhanced trade and logistics efficiency
Enhanced Road Safety Standards
By constructing advanced road infrastructure, the project prioritizes road safety through:
- Improved road design
- Efficient traffic management systems
- Safe pedestrian crossings and dedicated walkways
With state-of-the-art engineering, the bridges and roads are designed to handle Dubai’s increasing traffic demands while ensuring driver and pedestrian safety.
Future Developments and Completion Timeline
Remaining Bridges Set to Open Soon
The final two bridges of Phase 4 will be operational by mid-year, completing a crucial section of the corridor. These bridges will:
- Further reduce congestion in peak traffic hours
- Improve entry and exit points to commercial hubs
- Increase alternative route options for commuters
Next Phases of Al Shindagha Corridor Project
The project is progressing rapidly, with the next phases focusing on:
- Further intersection enhancements across Sheikh Rashid Road and Al Khaleej Street
- Expansion of road networks leading to Dubai’s industrial and residential zones
- Integration with Dubai’s smart traffic management system for real-time monitoring and optimization
Conclusion
The Dubai RTA’s newly inaugurated 3-lane bridge marks another milestone in the Al Shindagha Corridor Improvement Project, showcasing the city’s commitment to advanced infrastructure and seamless mobility. This mega-project will transform Dubai’s transportation landscape, offering faster travel, improved safety, and a world-class road network.
