News

Major Dubai road upgrades announced to cut traffic and improve daily commutes

Published

11 months ago

May 5, 2025

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Dubai is embarking on a major transformation of its road network to address traffic congestion, enhance capacity, and support the emirate’s rapid growth.

As part of the Roads and Transport Authority’s (RTA) 2025–2027 Strategic Plan, the ambitious infrastructure programme includes 57 key projects covering 226 km of roads and 115 bridges and tunnels. These upgrades are designed to accommodate Dubai’s expected population growth, which is projected to reach 8 million by 2040.

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai, recently visited the RTA to review the progress of these critical road projects. During his visit, he was briefed on the comprehensive plans that aim to ease traffic congestion and improve the overall transportation experience across the city.

Three Major Corridors in the Spotlight

Umm Suqeim–Al Qudra Corridor

Scope: 16 km corridor from Jumeirah Street to Emirates Road
Current Status: Phase 1 is 50% complete
Infrastructure: 7 km of bridges and tunnels across four major junctions
Capacity: Expanding from 8,400 to 12,600 vehicles per hour
Travel Time: Will drop from 46 minutes to just 11
Who It Serves: Over 1 million residents

Hessa Street

Scope: Upgrades to four key intersections
Progress: 60% complete, some parts already open
Infrastructure: 9 km of bridges
Capacity: Doubling from 4,000 to 8,000 vehicles per hour
Travel Time: Down from 30 minutes to 7
Residents Benefited: Around 640,000
Extra Feature: A new 13.5 km cycling and e-scooter track, with two eye-catching bridges crossing Sheikh Zayed Road and Al Khail Road

Al Fay Road Corridor

Route: Extending Al Khail Road from Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road to Emirates Road
Infrastructure: 12.9 km of road and 13.5 km of bridges over five intersections
Capacity: To support an extra 64,400 vehicles per hour
Residents Benefited: 600,000 once complete

Quick Wins on Sheikh Zayed Road

Sheikh Zayed Road, one of the city’s busiest arteries, sees 2.5 million users daily. A series of “quick-win” traffic solutions rolled out between January and April this year have already made an impact:

5–10% drop in congestion
9% cut in traffic volumes after dynamic tolling
4% increase in public transport ridership
2.3% drop in vehicle use and 1% rise in public transport usage thanks to dynamic parking tariffs

Other Corridors Being Upgraded

Latifa bint Hamdan Street (Al Khail Road to Emirates Road)
Al Meydan Street
Al Mustaqbal Street
Dubai World Trade Centre roundabout

These projects reflect Dubai’s long-term vision to stay ahead of population growth and maintain smooth traffic flow across key residential and commercial zones.

Related Topics:alqudra bridges Dubai dubairoads hessastreet roadupgrades RTA sheikhzayedroad traffic trafficcongestion trafficjams tunnels ummsuqeim

Michael Gomes

With over 35 years of experience in journalism, copywriting, and PR, Michael Gomes is a seasoned media professional deeply rooted in the UAE’s print and digital landscape.

News

UAE announces Eid prayer timings, bans open-air prayer grounds

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11 mins ago

March 19, 2026

Michael Gomes

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As the UAE prepares for Eid Al Fitr, authorities have confirmed that prayers will be held exclusively in approved mosques across the country, with no arrangements for open-air prayer grounds this year.

The move comes as part of precautionary measures aimed at ensuring the safety and smooth flow of worshippers during one of the most significant occasions in the Islamic calendar.

Mosque-only prayers for safety

Authorities clarified that Eid prayers will not take place in outdoor spaces or traditional Eid prayer grounds. Instead, worshippers are advised to attend designated mosques, where entry and exit will be carefully managed.

Teams of officials and volunteers will be deployed to oversee crowd movement and prevent congestion, ensuring an orderly and safe prayer experience.

Prayer timings across the UAE

The official prayer timings for Eid Al Fitr in the seven emirates are as follows:

Abu Dhabi: 6:43am
Dubai: 6:40am
Sharjah: 6:39am
Ajman: 6:39am
Umm Al Quwain: 6:39am
Ras Al Khaimah: 6:37am
Fujairah: 6:36am

Residents are encouraged to arrive early and follow guidance from authorities.

Preparing for a smooth Eid

Authorities say preparations are underway to ensure the holiday is observed safely and smoothly, with a focus on public safety and community well-being.

With clear guidelines, set timings, and coordinated efforts in place, residents across the UAE can look forward to a peaceful and well-managed Eid celebration.

News

Eid Al Fitr begins on Friday in UAE as crescent moon not sighted

Published

29 mins ago

March 19, 2026

Michael Gomes

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The UAE has officially announced that Eid Al Fitr will begin on Friday, March 20, following the non-sighting of the Shawwal crescent moon on Wednesday evening.

The decision was made by the country’s Moon-sighting Committee, confirming that Ramadan will complete 30 days this year before the festive celebrations begin.

30 days of Ramadan

The sighting of the Shawwal crescent marks the end of Ramadan and the start of Eid Al Fitr, one of the most significant celebrations in the Islamic calendar. As the moon was not sighted, the holy month will run its full course, with Eid commencing the following day.

Public sector holidays

The Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR) has announced that public sector employees will observe the Eid break from Thursday, March 19, through Sunday, March 22. Work will resume on Monday, March 23.

Private sector holidays

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation confirmed that private sector employees will begin their Eid holidays on Thursday, March 19, lasting until Sunday, March 22.

Time for celebration

Eid Al Fitr marks the end of a month of fasting, reflection, and community, bringing families and communities together in celebration.

With the official dates confirmed, residents across the UAE can now prepare for the festivities and holiday period.

Business

UAE denies claims of restrictions on investor funds, reaffirms open economy policy

Published

46 mins ago

March 19, 2026

Michael Gomes

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The UAE has firmly dismissed reports circulating on social media that suggest restrictions on investor funds, calling the claims inaccurate and misleading.

Officials clarified that there are no limits on the movement of capital or on foreign investors’ ability to manage and transfer their money. Authorities stressed that the country remains committed to maintaining an open, business-friendly environment aligned with international standards.

Commitment to investor confidence

The Ministry of Economy and Tourism reiterated that the UAE continues to support the free flow of capital, a key pillar in attracting global investment and ensuring long-term economic stability.

Officials emphasised that policies remain unchanged, reinforcing the country’s reputation as a reliable and transparent destination for businesses and investors.

Dubai reaffirms its position

In a statement shared on X, the Dubai Media Office also rejected the circulating claims, describing them as false. It highlighted that Dubai continues to stand as a leading global hub for business and investment, supported by a strong and resilient economy.

Call for accurate information

Authorities have urged the public and media outlets to rely on official sources when seeking information, warning against the spread of unverified claims online.

The clarification comes as the UAE contåinues to strengthen its position as a global financial and investment centre, built on openness, stability, and investor confidence.