Dubai RTA Completes Key Road Upgrades, Slashes Travel Time by 40%

Dubai: The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) of Dubai has successfully completed a series of strategic infrastructure upgrades to improve traffic flow and connectivity between Sheikh Zayed Road and Al Khail Road via Al Meydan Street. The enhancements are part of RTA’s wider initiative to optimise Dubai’s road network and support the city’s rapid urban growth.

Exit D69 Doubled in Capacity

One of the major components of the project involved widening Exit No. D69 from Sheikh Zayed Road to Al Meydan Street. The exit’s capacity was increased from one lane to two, effectively doubling its throughput from 1,500 to 3,000 vehicles per hour. As a result, travel times during peak hours have been reduced by up to 40%, and queue lengths have been cut by 50%, significantly easing congestion in the area.

Bridge Expansion over First Al Khail Road

In another key enhancement, the bridge over First Al Khail Road was expanded from three to four lanes in both directions. This increased the bridge’s capacity from 4,500 to 6,000 vehicles per hour—a 33% improvement—and reduced peak-hour crossing times from seven minutes to just four.

Ramp Improvements Ease Congestion

To further streamline traffic flow, RTA also widened the connecting ramps between the surface road and the bridge from one lane to two. This upgrade has had a major impact on reducing congestion, particularly during midday and evening rush hours, cutting waiting times by more than 50%.

Part of a Citywide Master Plan

These upgrades are part of RTA’s comprehensive master plan, which includes the implementation of over 75 traffic improvement projects across strategic locations in Dubai throughout 2025. The initiative is in line with RTA’s sustainable development strategy aimed at enhancing urban mobility, improving quality of life for residents, and reinforcing Dubai’s reputation as a global leader in integrated and efficient transport infrastructure.

For more information on RTA projects, visit www.rta.ae.