Dubai: H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, reviewed the progress of key strategic road corridors being developed by Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) to enhance traffic flow and mobility across the emirate.
According to Emirates News Agency, Sheikh Hamdan was briefed on the implementation timeline for major road infrastructure projects scheduled for completion by 2027, aimed at serving 8 million residents by 2040. The briefing further covered the roadmap for deploying autonomous taxis and the development of the model neighbourhood in Al Barsha 2.
At the outset of the visit, His Highness viewed a mural showcasing RTA's strategic road projects under the 2025-2027 Plan, which includes 57 initiatives featuring the construction of 226 kilometres of roads and 115 bridges and tunnels. The mural also outlines the development of 11 major road corridors across the emirate, comprising eight vertical corridors and three new routes.
Among the most prominent projects are the upgrades to the Umm Suqeim-Al Qudra Corridor, Hessa Street, Latifa bint Hamdan Street (from Al Khail Road to Emirates Road), Al Meydan Street, Al Mustaqbal Street, the Dubai World Trade Centre roundabout, and Al Fay Road, an extension of Al Khail Road. These projects are designed to support a growing population projected to reach 8 million by 2040.
H.H. Sheikh Hamdan was briefed by Mattar Al Tayer, Director General, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the RTA, on the progress of the Umm Suqeim-Al Qudra Corridor Development Project. Spanning 16 km, the corridor serves several residential and development zones with a combined population exceeding one million. The project entails the upgrade of four key junctions and includes the construction of bridges and tunnels totalling 7,000 metres.
Sheikh Hamdan also reviewed progress on the ongoing upgrade of Hessa Street, which is approximately 60% complete. The development includes enhancing four intersections through the construction of 9,000 metres of bridges, doubling the road's capacity, and reducing travel time significantly. As part of the upgrade, a 13.5-kilometre cycling and e-scooter track is being constructed along Hessa Street.
Additionally, Sheikh Hamdan evaluated the progress of Al Fay Street Corridor Project, one of Dubai's strategic mobility routes. The project involves the construction of 12,900 metres of roadway and the development of five major intersections. Once completed, it will deliver additional traffic capacity for about 64,400 vehicles per hour.
Sheikh Hamdan was also briefed on the development plans for Sheikh Zayed Road and the introduction of rapid traffic solutions and transport policies between January and April 2025, which have resulted in a reduction in congestion and an increase in public transport usage.
The use of smart technologies, including drones and artificial intelligence, to monitor road infrastructure projects was also presented. These innovations have significantly improved operational efficiency, accelerated decision-making, and provided real-time access to accurate data.
In addition, Sheikh Hamdan reviewed the existing and future cycling infrastructure across Dubai, which currently includes 557 km of dedicated cycling tracks. An initiative to assign names to cycling tracks to enhance the user experience and attract investment was also discussed.
Furthermore, the roadmap for deploying autonomous taxis across Dubai was presented. This initiative, part of Dubai's Self-Driving Transport Strategy, aims to convert 25% of all mobility journeys in the city to autonomous modes by 2030.
Lastly, Sheikh Hamdan reviewed the Model District Project in Al Barsha 2, designed to enhance liveability, expand green and open spaces, and promote sustainable mobility, aligning with the objectives of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan. The project includes integrated walking and cycling tracks, community spaces, and upgraded public amenities.