Abu dhabi: Suhail Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, announced a AED170 billion package of national transport and road projects to be implemented by 2030, aimed at easing traffic congestion and enhancing mobility across the UAE.
According to Emirates News Agency, Al Mazrouei revealed during the UAE Government Annual Meetings in Abu Dhabi that the projects form part of a comprehensive strategy to advance transport infrastructure. This includes the expansion of major roads across the country, enhancement of public transport, and implementation of high-speed and light rail projects. The strategy aims to accommodate population and economic growth while ensuring a better quality of life for citizens and residents.
Al Mazrouei stated that the ministry aims to enhance federal road efficiency by 73% over the next five years through a development plan that includes expanding the number of lanes from 19 to 33 in each direction. The plan comprises upgrading major highways, such as adding six lanes to Etihad Road, increasing its capacity by 60% to a total of 12 lanes.
Emirates Road will be expanded to 10 lanes along its entire stretch, increasing capacity by 65% and reducing travel time by 45%. Similarly, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road will be widened to 10 lanes, enhancing its capacity by 45%.
The strategy also includes a study for a fourth federal highway, 120 kilometers long with 12 lanes, capable of accommodating up to 360,000 trips per day, further enhancing traffic flow. Al Mazrouei emphasized that these efforts align with the leadership's directives to develop smart, flexible, and sustainable infrastructure that supports comprehensive development and improves quality of life in line with the UAE Centennial 2071 plan.
The project for upgrading and developing Emirates Road, costing AED 750 million, is already underway and is expected to be completed within two years. This project is part of broader development plans on major highways, reflecting the UAE's vision of establishing a more advanced, efficient, and sustainable federal road network. It aims to meet the demands of rapid population and economic growth while improving traffic flow and reducing emissions for a safer travel experience.
Addressing traffic congestion is a national priority, with federal and local entities working to strengthen road infrastructure, enhance public transport networks, and reduce reliance on private vehicles. Al Mazrouei highlighted the importance of developing traffic policies to adapt to urban growth, ensuring smooth and efficient traffic flow, and enhancing mobility for all road users.
He noted the annual increase in vehicles on the road exceeds 8%, compared to the global average of 2%, attributing this to the heavy reliance on private vehicles, overlapping working and school hours, and population growth. The ministry will coordinate with local entities to address these challenges, updating policies and regulations, improving transport network integration, and introducing innovative mobility options.
The Ministry is also assessing the enhancement of existing highways linking the Emirates and the development of new routes through national projects. Al Mazrouei emphasized a strategic approach to addressing traffic issues by implementing innovative solutions and smart technologies, supported by a 24-hour traffic monitoring center.
Etihad Rail is set to commence passenger transport services by 2026, providing an integrated, safe, and efficient railway network that will enhance connectivity, reduce congestion, and meet passenger needs according to international standards. The AED50 billion UAE Railway Programme, announced in 2021, underscores the UAE's commitment to strengthening the transport sector and promoting road safety.