Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has unveiled plans to upgrade Umm Suqeim Street, improving traffic flow and enhancing connectivity across key areas of the city.
The project spans from the intersection with Jumeirah Street to Al Khail Road, with an aim to address the growing demands of urban expansion and population growth.
Key project objectives
The upgrade is part of a broader effort to enhance transportation infrastructure in Dubai and improve the quality of life for both residents and visitors. In addition to road widening, the project will introduce pedestrian walkways, a cycling track, and integrated urban spaces designed to foster community interaction.
The development will also improve connectivity to the Mall of the Emirates Metro Station, linking it seamlessly to surrounding residential areas, making access to the metro easier for commuters.
Improving traffic flow
Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the RTA, explained that the Umm Suqeim Street upgrade forms part of a larger plan to develop the Umm Suqeim-Al Qudra corridor. The strategic corridor connects key residential and commercial zones in the city, with a combined population of over two million people.
“The project will enhance connectivity across major transport corridors, including Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Khail Road, and Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, increasing Umm Suqeim Street’s capacity to 16,000 vehicles per hour in both directions,” Al Tayer said.
This upgrade will also significantly reduce travel time between Jumeirah Street and Al Khail Road, dropping from 20 minutes to just six.
Key infrastructure developments
As part of the project, six key intersections along Umm Suqeim Street will be upgraded, including those with Jumeirah Street, Al Wasl Street, and Sheikh Zayed Road. Notably, four new bridges and three tunnels will be constructed, totaling a combined length of 4,100 meters.
At the intersection with Jumeirah Street, a two-lane tunnel will be built, accompanied by a signalized surface-level junction. A second tunnel will be constructed at the Al Wasl Street intersection to manage traffic flow and ensure smooth movement from Sheikh Zayed Road towards Jumeirah Street.
Ongoing projects
RTA is also advancing a separate project on a 4.6-kilometre section of Umm Suqeim Street, between Al Khail Road and Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road. The redevelopment includes an 800-meter tunnel and surface-level improvements, with works now over 70% complete. This phase is expected to open in the third quarter of 2025.
Additionally, RTA is working on upgrading Al Qudra Road, including the construction of bridges and road widening, which will further enhance the city’s road network and reduce travel times for commuters.
With these upgrades, RTA continues its commitment to improving Dubai’s transportation infrastructure, ensuring better connectivity and accessibility across the emirate.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
