Dubai traffic: RTA mulls flexible working hours, remote work policies

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in Dubai has unveiled its Roads and Transport Plan 2030.

According to a report from the Dubai Media Office, the plan is built around four key pillars:

First pillar: 39 strategic projects

The first pillar focuses on road infrastructure and includes 39 strategic projects aimed at developing and enhancing major corridors. A key highlight is the upgrade of Latifa bint Hamdan Street (from Al Khail Road to Emirates Road), along with improvements to Hessa Street, Al Meydan Street, Al Mustaqbal Street, and the Trade Centre Roundabout.

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Additional upgrades will target roads in Al Wasl, Jumeirah, Umm Suqeim, Al Qudra, Al Fay, and Al Safa—particularly the stretch between Sheikh Zayed Road and Al Wasl Road.

Second pillar: Transport policy for Dubai

The second pillar addresses Dubai’s transport policy. Several measures have been recommended to improve traffic flow in the emirate, including flexible working hours, remote work policies, dedicated bus lanes, school transport reforms, dynamic pricing for tolls and parking, and expanded truck movement restrictions.

Third pillar: Public transport development

The third pillar focuses on public transport development. Key projects include the construction of the Dubai Metro Blue Line, feasibility studies for suspended transit systems, expansion of dedicated lanes for buses and taxis, and enhancements to both the public bus network and marine transport infrastructure.

Fourth pillar: Smart traffic systems

The fourth pillar emphasizes smart traffic systems. The RTA has launched Phase 2 of the Intelligent Traffic Systems (ITS) project, aiming for 100% network coverage across Dubai. The initiative includes upgrades to traffic incident management, emergency response systems, and the efficiency of signalised intersections.

New bridge

In addition to these strategies, the RTA awarded a Dhs786 million contract in early April for the construction of a new bridge to improve connectivity between Bur Dubai and the Dubai Islands.

The bridge, which will span 1,425 metres, will feature four lanes in each direction and is designed to handle up to 16,000 vehicles per hour. It will rise 18.5 metres above Dubai Creek, with a 75-metre-wide navigational channel to allow for uninterrupted maritime traffic.