The Emirates Road Development Project has officially been launched by the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure as part of a strategic national initiative to tackle traffic congestion and support the UAE’s sustainable growth ambitions. The move aligns with the country’s broader goals to modernise its road infrastructure and boost mobility across key emirates.
Scheduled to commence in September 2025, the Emirates Road Development Project involves expanding the existing road from three to five lanes in each direction over a 25-kilometre stretch between Al Badee Interchange in Sharjah and Umm Al Quwain. This expansion is expected to increase capacity by 65 percent, allowing for the accommodation of up to 9,000 vehicles per hour.
Massive Infrastructure Upgrade Underway
The project, valued at AED 750 million, is a significant step in modernizing one of the UAE’s most heavily trafficked roads. It includes a complete upgrade of Interchange No. 7, with the addition of six directional bridges spanning 12.6 kilometers, which increases junction capacity to 13,200 vehicles per hour.
Additionally, the Emirates Road Development Project features 3.4 kilometres of collector roads on both sides, streamlining entry and exit points and enhancing overall traffic flow.
Reducing Travel Time By Nearly Half
According to the Ministry, once completed in 2027, the project is expected to reduce travel time by up to 45 percent for commuters moving between Ras Al Khaimah, Umm Al Quwain, Sharjah, and Dubai. This promises to ease daily congestion for both commercial and private vehicles significantly.
Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, highlighted the importance of the project, stating:
“This is a vital step in delivering an integrated, sustainable road network that supports both population needs and national economic development. By enhancing traffic flow and reducing commute times, the Emirates Road Development Project will directly improve the quality of life.”
Part of a National Vision for Transport Efficiency
Al Mazrouei also linked the initiative to the UAE Government Annual Meetings, where infrastructure development was identified as a key pillar for national progress. He noted that the Emirates Road Development Project will enhance environmental sustainability by reducing emissions from idling vehicles, aligning with the UAE’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
A Model For Future-Ready Road Infrastructure
Eng. Hassan Al Mansouri, Undersecretary for Infrastructure and Transport Affairs, emphasised that the project adheres to the highest international planning and engineering standards.
“The Emirates Road is one of the main arteries of the UAE’s federal road system. Upgrading it will ensure better transit between cities and support efficient logistics and trade.”
The Emirates Road Development Project reflects the UAE’s forward-thinking approach to smart infrastructure, ensuring not just improved traffic conditions but also long-term economic and environmental benefits. As construction progresses, the Ministry expects it to become a benchmark for future road development initiatives nationwide.
–Input WAM
