Dubai has introduced a new architectural identity for its road and transport network as Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum reviewed key infrastructure projects. The AED1.3bn ($354m) Trade Centre Roundabout and Al Mustaqbal Street upgrades include seven bridges and three tunnels spanning 6.5km. These developments are set to slash travel times, improve traffic flow, and enhance the city’s urban character.
The projects serve seven major areas, including Dubai World Trade Centre, DIFC, Emirates Towers, Museum of the Future, and Downtown Dubai, benefiting more than one million residents and visitors. Sheikh Hamdan also reviewed the Dubai Tunnels initiative, which will transform key tunnels into cultural landmarks with murals created by local artists.
Bridges, Tunnels, and Major Connectivity Improvements
The Trade Centre Roundabout improvements will open in phases. The first two bridges will serve traffic from 2nd December Street to Al Majlis Street and Sheikh Rashid Street in January next year. A second bridge connecting Sheikh Zayed Road to Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Street will open in March, followed by two additional bridges in October 2026. In total, five bridges spanning 5km and a converted surface-level roundabout will double junction capacity, reducing delays from 12 minutes to just 90 seconds.
Al Mustaqbal Street upgrades will include 1,500m of bridges and tunnels, widening the corridor from three to four lanes per direction. Capacity will rise by 33%, cutting travel time from 13 minutes to six. The project also features three tunnels of 1,100m, a 400m two-lane bridge for Dubai World Trade Centre traffic, free-flow connections at Exhibition Street, and a new pedestrian bridge on Sukuk Street.
Unified Urban Design and Cultural Integration
The new architectural identity aligns with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, unifying bridges, canopies, street furniture, and lighting while emphasizing sustainability, innovation, and heritage-inspired design. Dubai is now divided into six zones—residential, rural, industrial, mixed-use, historical and artistic, and high-end attraction—each with distinct materials, colors, and architectural styles.
The Dubai Urban Challenge attracted over 500 designers from 91 countries. Winners include Oliver Charles (UK) for A Thread Through Time, Mohammed Ayash (Saudi Arabia) for Breathing Masonry, and Giulietta Debrutti (Argentina) for Echo. Meanwhile, the Dubai Tunnels initiative will enhance 18 tunnels across three phases using smart lighting, high-performance artistic panels, and sustainable materials. These upgrades position Dubai as a global leader in integrating infrastructure functionality with aesthetic excellence.
