New Dhs786m bridge to boost Bur Dubai-Dubai Islands connectivity

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has awarded a contract worth Dhs786m for the construction of a new bridge, aimed at improving connectivity to the Dubai Islands from Bur Dubai.

This project is part of the broader efforts to upgrade the emirate’s road network and mobility system, under a strategic agreement with Dubai Holding.

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

Additionally, a dedicated cycling and pedestrian path, complete with elevators, will provide enhanced accessibility for residents and visitors.

Mattar Al Tayer, director general and chairman of the Board of Executive Directors at RTA, emphasised that this bridge is crucial to supporting the growth and development of the Dubai Islands.

The infrastructure project will also include 2,000 metres of surface roads linking the bridge to existing road networks in the Bur Dubai and Dubai Islands areas.

RTA awards contract for the construction of bridges connecting Dubai Islands to Bur Dubai for AED 786 million, as part of the agreement with Dubai Holding.@rta_dubai | @dubaiholding pic.twitter.com/ddUmHgDGRk

— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) April 6, 2025

New bridge to improve traffic flow

“The bridge is a vital step in improving traffic flow and facilitating easier access to key developments on the Dubai Islands,” Al Tayer said. “It is part of the larger Al Shindagha Corridor Development Project, which aims to transform mobility in the region.”

The bridge project is the latest phase in the RTA’s collaboration with Dubai Holding on infrastructure development, following a 2020 initiative that constructed three bridges to enhance traffic flow to and from the Dubai Islands.

The new bridge will connect directly to Dubai Creek, enhancing both local and cross-emirate mobility.

Al Tayer further explained that the Dubai Islands access project is part of a broader initiative to redevelop the Al Shindagha Corridor, which will ultimately reduce travel times significantly.

The development will cover 15 intersections over 13 kilometres, benefiting around one million people and reducing travel time from 104 minutes to just 16 minutes, with an estimated savings of Dhs45bn over the next 20 years.

RTA-Dubai Holding collaboration to boost infrastructure

Amit Kaushal, group CEO of Dubai Holding, highlighted the importance of the partnership in advancing Dubai’s infrastructure and supporting the emirate’s long-term growth. “Our collaboration with RTA underscores our commitment to enhancing connectivity and creating integrated, future-ready communities in line with Dubai’s vision for sustainable growth and innovation,” Kaushal said.

The project is part of a larger Dhs6bn agreement between the RTA and Dubai Holding aimed at upgrading the city’s infrastructure.

The agreement also covers significant upgrades to transport networks in key development areas such as Jumeirah Village Triangle, Palm Jumeirah, and Dubai International City (Phase 3), all designed to improve access, reduce travel times, and streamline traffic flow.

These enhancements will include the construction of additional entry and exit points, flyovers, and pedestrian bridges, with a specific focus on improving access to business hubs like Business Bay and Dubai Production City.

Improvements to the Palm Jumeirah and Dubai International City areas will further reduce travel times and ensure smoother traffic flow.