Dubai traffic solution: New project to increase road capacity by 5,000 cars per hour

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is set to open a new entry and exit point to Al Warqa directly from Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road early next week (early June), aiming to facilitate smoother access to and from the neighbourhood.

Read: Dubai: RTA makes vehicle inspection appointments mandatory from June 2

Once complete, the project will increase road capacity by 5,000 vehicles per hour, reduce travel time by 80 per cent—from 20 minutes to just 3.5 minutes—and shorten trip distances from 5.7 kilometres to 1.5 kilometres, a Dubai Media Office report said.

Traffic improvement works

RTA has also completed traffic improvement works on Street 13 in Al Warqa 1 to serve residents and school goers. These enhancements are part of a broader internal road development project spanning approximately 8 kilometres, designed to improve traffic flow and enhance the efficiency of the local road network, ultimately boosting daily mobility and residents’ quality of life.

RTA reaffirms its commitment to developing an integrated infrastructure network—encompassing roads, lighting, and stormwater drainage systems—within residential areas. This initiative aligns with Dubai’s urban and population growth goals and reflects RTA’s dedication to creating a modern urban environment that supports sustainable mobility, enhances quality of life, and ensures residents’ comfort and well-being. These efforts are in line with Dubai’s vision of becoming a smart, prosperous city that meets residents’ evolving needs.

Internal road networks

Development projects in Al Warqa also include upgrades to internal road networks in Al Warqa 3 and 4.

These works involve road paving, construction of pedestrian walkways, pavements, and parking spaces, along with the implementation of cycling tracks exceeding 23 kilometres in total. The goal is to enhance connectivity with neighbouring cycle tracks and promote sustainable, alternative modes of transport.

The next phase will include capacity upgrades in Al Warqa 1, converting existing roundabouts into signalised junctions with smart traffic lights. These enhancements are expected to improve traffic flow by up to 30 per cent and are scheduled for completion by the end of this year.

RTA has also carried out a series of internal road development works in Al Warqa, including traffic enhancements near the School of Research Science in Al Warqa 4 and GEMS Royal Dubai School. This included building 150 additional parking spaces and providing secure entry and exit points for the new parking areas. These measures have helped reduce congestion and cut delays in the school zone by approximately 35 per cent to 50 per cent.

RTA also completed internal roads supporting the Mohammed Bin Rashid Housing Establishment project in Al Warqa 4, which comprises 136 residential villas. The works included pedestrian walkways, pavements, vehicle access points, and a fully integrated lighting system, all aimed at improving road safety and mobility. A 7.4-kilometre cycling track was also constructed to encourage recreational cycling and support first-and-last-mile transport.

Interactive session with residents

Earlier, RTA held an interactive session with residents and frequent visitors to Al Warqa to highlight key initiatives and development projects in the district. The session also served as a platform for the public to share feedback and observations on infrastructure and the road network. This approach underscores RTA’s commitment to listening to the community, addressing their suggestions, and implementing practical solutions.

The engagement session was a key milestone, helping shape a series of development initiatives that translated into tangible improvements—directly enhancing traffic flow and addressing both current and future community needs.