UAE plans new 120km highway in Dh170 billion transport upgrade
National strategy targets smarter, faster, and greener transport systems
ABU DHABI – The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has unveiled a Dh170 billion investment plan to expand and modernise its national transport network by 2030, in a move aimed at easing congestion, enhancing mobility, and supporting the country’s rapid economic and population growth.
The announcement was made by Suhail Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, during the UAE Government Annual Meetings in Abu Dhabi. The comprehensive strategy includes the construction of new highways, major expansions of existing routes, and the development of high-speed and light rail systems to improve inter-emirate connectivity.
Under the plan, the ministry aims to enhance the efficiency of federal roads by 73 percent over the next five years, while widening key national highways to accommodate the growing number of vehicles on the road – a figure that has been increasing by more than eight per cent annually, far exceeding the global average of two per cent.
Key projects
The Dh170 billion strategy includes plans for a new 120km federal highway with 12 lanes, capable of handling up to 360,000 trips per day. This will be the country’s fourth federal highway, designed to ease the load on existing routes and further streamline nationwide traffic flow.
Etihad Road will undergo a major expansion, with six new lanes – three in each direction – increasing total capacity by 60 percent and bringing the route up to 12 lanes. Emirates Road, connecting Ras Al Khaimah with Abu Dhabi, will be widened to 10 lanes, raising capacity by 65 percent and cutting travel time by 45 percent. Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road will also be upgraded to 10 lanes, improving capacity by 45 percent.
“These efforts are part of the leadership’s directives to develop a smart, flexible, and sustainable infrastructure that supports national development and improves quality of life, in line with the UAE Centennial 2071 plan,” said Al Mazrouei.
How will the projects be implemented?
According to the minister, the ministry has already begun implementing a Dh750 million project to upgrade and develop Emirates Road, expected to be completed within two years. The initiative is part of wider national efforts to create a sustainable, efficient, and advanced road network that meets the country’s growing transport needs.
The Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure will coordinate with local entities to implement the projects, review traffic policies, and ensure integration across transport networks. The plan also aims to reduce reliance on private vehicles through improved public transport and innovative mobility solutions.
Al Mazrouei explained that heavy private car usage, overlapping school and work timings, and population growth are key contributors to traffic congestion. Addressing these challenges, he said, is a top priority for federal and local authorities working together to strengthen infrastructure and promote sustainable travel.
When will rail services expand?
In addition to road developments, Al Mazrouei confirmed that the Etihad Rail passenger service remains on schedule to launch in 2026. The Dh50 billion UAE Railway Programme, announced in 2021, will connect cities and communities nationwide, reducing congestion and providing a safer and more efficient transport option.
“The network will enhance connectivity between emirates, meet passenger needs to the highest international standards, and strengthen the UAE’s position as a global transport hub,” Al Mazrouei said.
The ministry has also established a 24-hour national traffic monitoring centre that analyses congestion patterns and supports the development of data-driven solutions to improve traffic flow.