Dubai’s Sheikh Zayed Road: What the RTA is doing to reduce traffic
These developments aim to enhance both capacity and efficiency on this critical road in Dubai
The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in Dubai will be implementing three major developments on Sheikh Zayed Road.
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According to a Dubai Media Office report, these developments aim to enhance both capacity and efficiency on this critical road in Dubai.
The initiatives align with the RTA’s plan to:
- Improve the road network and mobility systems
- Ensure smooth traffic flow
- Keep pace with Dubai’s rapid urban growth and expansion
The addition of an extra lane
The first development involves extending the merging distances between Umm Al Sheif Street and Al Manara Street, heading toward Abu Dhabi. An additional lane will also be added for traffic headed toward Al Manara, increasing vehicle space by 30 per cent. This will improve the entry and exit flow on the road.
Modifications to service road exit
The second development includes remodelling the service road exit in front of the Shangri-La Hotel, leading to the first interchange on Sheikh Zayed Road, near Dubai Mall. The RTA plans to extend the merging distances between the service road and the exit toward Al Safa Street and Dubai Mall, which should significantly reduce congestion at this key point.
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Extension of merging distances
The third initiative involves extending the merging distance between Al Marabi Street and Al Manara Street in the direction of Abu Dhabi. This reconstruction will reduce waiting times, ease traffic at the merge point, and increase traffic flow during peak hours.
Why these developments are necessary
Sheikh Zayed Road is a vital traffic corridor, connecting major commercial and financial hubs like the Dubai International Financial Centre, Burj Khalifa, and Dubai Mall. It also serves as a key route for global corporations, banks, and investment institutions in the area.
For this reason, the RTA places significant emphasis on its maintenance and development, as noted by Abdullah Lootah, Director of Road and Facilities Maintenance at the Traffic and Roads Agency.
