Motorists in Sharjah are being urged to plan after the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure confirmed a temporary road closure affecting traffic towards Dubai this weekend.

The short-term closure is part of ongoing infrastructure upgrades aimed at improving long-term traffic flow and road safety in the emirate.

Which roads are closing

According to the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, the following roads will be closed:

• Mosque Road
• The distributor road at Al Badee intersection
• Direction: Towards Dubai along Emirates Road

Closure Timing:

• Start: 9pm, Saturday, February 21
• End: 5am, Monday, February 23

The closure will last for two nights over the weekend.

Alternative route for drivers

Traffic will be diverted via:

• Al Houshi Bridge
• Along Mleiha Road, heading west

Motorists commuting between Sharjah and Dubai, particularly those using Emirates Road, should expect delays and allow extra travel time, especially during peak evening hours.

Authorities have confirmed that temporary road signs and diversion markers will be in place to guide drivers safely through the area.

Why is the road closure happening

The ministry stated the measure is necessary to facilitate development works and infrastructure upgrades in the area.

The goal is to:

• Improve long-term traffic flow
• Enhance road safety
• Support Sharjah’s growing transport network

While short-term inconvenience is expected, officials say the upgrades will benefit daily commuters once completed.

Advice for motorists

If you regularly travel between Sharjah and Dubai this weekend:

• Leave earlier than usual
  Follow diversion signage carefully
  Use navigation apps for live updates
  Avoid peak evening travel if possible

With thousands of commuters relying on Emirates Road daily, even temporary closures can significantly impact journey times.

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has launched a Ramadan traffic awareness campaign, distributing 40,000 awareness leaflets alongside Iftar meals and Ramadan gifts across Dubai.

The initiative targets taxi drivers, delivery bike riders and construction workers, in cooperation with public and private sector partners. The campaign aims to promote safe driving behaviour during the holy month and reduce traffic accidents across the emirate.

RTA confirmed it is using both printed and digital awareness tools to reach a wide audience and reinforce road safety messages throughout Ramadan.

Delivery riders received safety leaflets integrated with Iftar meals, while construction site workers were provided meals accompanied by pedestrian safety awareness materials.

Ahmed Al Khzaimy, Director of Traffic at RTA’s Traffic and Roads Agency, said Ramadan presents an opportunity to intensify awareness initiatives aligned with Dubai’s Traffic Safety Strategy and its vision of becoming “The World Leader in Seamless and Sustainable Mobility.”

He urged drivers to embody the values of patience and tolerance during Ramadan, particularly while fasting, and warned against driving while fatigued or drowsy.

Safety tips for drivers

• Avoid driving immediately after a heavy Iftar meal
• Maintain a safe distance and remain patient
• Plan journeys in advance
• Avoid disputes with other drivers
• Do not sleep inside a closed vehicle

The Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure has announced that a lane on Emirates Road heading from Dubai towards Sharjah at Bridge No. 7 will be closed starting Thursday, February 19.

In a statement shared on X, the ministry confirmed that the temporary closure is part of ongoing Emirates Road enhancement and development works. No reopening date has been announced.

Motorists travelling from Dubai to Sharjah are advised to use alternative routes and follow traffic instructions to minimise delays and ensure safety.

Alternative routes and traffic diversions

The ministry urged drivers to comply with safety regulations and road signage to maintain smooth traffic flow during the works.

Earlier in February, authorities also announced the closure of the main road at Al Badi intersection towards Dubai (Emirates Road). In addition, the distribution road was closed, with traffic diverted to Al Hooshi Bridge on Maliha Road (Westbound).

Commuters are encouraged to plan and allow additional travel time during peak hours.