Emirates Road upgrade: Massive overhaul to handle 9,000 vehicles per hour

Image credit: WAM/Website

The UAE’s Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MoEI) has launched a major Dhs750m upgrade project on Emirates Road, a key federal route, as part of a broader strategy to modernise national infrastructure and ease traffic flow. The two-year initiative aims to significantly enhance road capacity, improve commuter experience, and support the country’s economic and environmental goals.

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The project, which forms part of a comprehensive national plan, will expand the current three-lane road to five lanes in each direction over a 25-kilometre stretch, from Al Badee Interchange to the Emirate of Umm Al Quwain. Once completed, the road will handle approximately 9,000 vehicles per hour, marking a 65 per cent increase in capacity, a WAM report said.

Key to the infrastructure overhaul is the redevelopment of Interchange No 7, which will involve constructing six new directional bridges with a total length of 12.6 kilometres. These will accommodate up to 13,200 vehicles per hour. Additionally, 3.4 kilometres of service roads will be built on both sides of the main carriageway to further streamline traffic flow and enhance road safety.

Regional connectivity and emissions reduction

The project is expected to cut travel time by up to 45 per cent for commuters traveling between Ras Al Khaimah, Umm Al Quwain, Sharjah, and Dubai, both ways. This is poised to reduce traffic congestion on one of the UAE’s busiest corridors, offering smoother and faster journeys for daily commuters and commercial transport alike.

Furthermore, by improving traffic efficiency and reducing idle time on the road, the development is also projected to lower vehicle emissions. This supports the UAE’s broader sustainability agenda and efforts to combat climate change.

Strategic vision for smart and sustainable infrastructure

Youssef Abdullah, Assistant Under-Secretary for the Federal Infrastructure Projects Sector at MoEI, stated that the initiative is a critical milestone in advancing the UAE’s vision for an integrated, future-ready road network.

“This project reflects our commitment to delivering sustainable and practical solutions to traffic congestion while supporting population and economic growth,” Abdullah said. He added that MoEI is focused on implementing innovative infrastructure strategies that enhance public satisfaction and improve quality of life.

To minimise disruptions during construction, MoEI has developed a phased execution strategy. This includes alternative detours and close coordination with local authorities to ensure continuous traffic flow and commuter safety throughout the construction period.

The ministry is also executing a public communication plan to keep residents informed of project developments, traffic diversions, and guidelines. Commuters are encouraged to stay alert, follow traffic instructions, and monitor MoEI’s digital channels for real-time updates.