Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has successfully inaugurated the fifth and final bridge as part of the comprehensive Al Shindagha Corridor Development Project. The milestone marks the completion of one of the largest infrastructure initiatives in the city, significantly enhancing traffic flow between key areas in Bur Dubai and Deira.
The project, which spans Sheikh Rashid Road and Al Mina Street, now ensures uninterrupted traffic flow from Al Garhoud Bridge to Port Rashid, passing through the Infinity Bridge. As a result, the travel time along the entire corridor has been reduced from 80 minutes to just 12 minutes, providing a major relief to residents and commuters.
Key Enhancements for Streamlined Connectivity
The completed project includes several important upgrades and developments. Traffic flow along Jumeirah Street to Infinity Bridge now takes only five minutes, while travel from the Infinity Bridge toward Al Mina Street and Al Wasl Road also takes a mere five minutes. These improvements enhance the overall efficiency of Dubai’s transportation system, particularly for residents of Deira and Bur Dubai, as well as visitors to major tourist attractions and business districts.
Currently, the RTA is continuing progress on the Al Khaleej Street Tunnel project, which extends 1,650 metres from Infinity Bridge ramp in Deira to the intersection of Al Khaleej Street and Cairo Street. The tunnel will further ease traffic congestion in the area.
Supporting Dubai’s Growth and Development
The Al Shindagha Corridor is a vital piece of infrastructure that serves multiple high-priority development zones, including Dubai Islands, Dubai Waterfront, Dubai Maritime City, and Port Rashid. The project is expected to benefit over one million people as it facilitates free-flowing traffic and supports economic growth.
As Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors at RTA, noted,
“This project was launched under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai. It aligns with our efforts to accommodate the growing urban and population needs, while ensuring sustainability and efficiency in Dubai’s transport infrastructure.”
The development includes a 13 km stretch covering Sheikh Rashid Road, Al Mina Street, Al Khaleej Street, and Cairo Street. The RTA has also enhanced 15 intersections and constructed 18 km of bridges and tunnels, further increasing road capacity and improving commuting experience.
Noteworthy Infrastructure Components and Future Plans
The Infinity Bridge, a key highlight of the project, features a distinctive arch design in the shape of an infinity symbol, rising 42 metres above the deck. This iconic structure spans 295 metres and accommodates 12 lanes, with a cycling track and a traffic capacity of 24,000 vehicles per hour.
The project also saw the development of several important intersections, including the Falcon Intersection with a combined length of 2,575 metres and a capacity of 28,800 vehicles per hour. Additional upgrades include the Sheikh Rashid Road and Oud Metha Street intersection, which now boasts a 700-metre-long bridge and the integration of two pedestrian bridges.
Looking ahead, the RTA is progressing with the Al Khaleej Street Tunnel, which is expected to enhance traffic capacity to 12,000 vehicles per hour, while the construction of direct access routes to Dubai Islands from Bur Dubai will further strengthen connectivity in the region.
Economic Impact and Future Outlook
The completed project will increase traffic capacity along the corridor from 6,400 vehicles per hour to 24,000 vehicles per hour, significantly improving road safety and traffic flow. By 2030, the RTA estimates that travel time along the corridor will be reduced from 104 minutes to just 16 minutes, bringing an economic benefit of AED 45 billion over the next 20 years.
The project will continue to play a pivotal role in shaping Dubai’s transport infrastructure, reinforcing its position as a global city of the future.
