Sharjah unveils Dh750m road network to strengthen Dubai connectivity
Underground passage to ease peak-hour congestion across busy commuter corridor
DUBAI – The Emirate of Sharjah has announced a major infrastructure expansion aimed at improving road connectivity with neighbouring Dubai, with projects valued at Dh750 million.
The initiative includes a new dual underground tunnel beneath Al Taawun Road and the development of additional routes designed to ease long-standing traffic congestion between the two emirates.
The announcement was made by His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, during a telephone intervention on the “Direct Line” programme. The plan also includes the redevelopment of key urban links and the reinstatement of a culturally significant monument once construction is complete.
Tunnel plan
The centrepiece of the project is a dual carriageway tunnel to be constructed beneath Al Taawun Roundabout, one of the busiest traffic junctions connecting Sharjah and Dubai. The underground route will allow uninterrupted movement for vehicles travelling in both directions, significantly reducing surface-level congestion. Engineers determined that the existing foundations of the Al Taawun Roundabout Monument extended into the planned tunnel alignment, requiring its temporary removal to facilitate construction.
His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi explained that technical studies and on-site assessments were conducted by specialists before finalising the design. The structure’s underground foundations were found to be firmly embedded, making it necessary to redesign the space rather than preserve it in place during excavation. The tunnel is expected to streamline traffic flow between Al Taawun Street and Al Nahda Bridge in Dubai, a corridor heavily used by daily commuters.
Monument restoration
The Al Taawun Roundabout Monument, which carries sentimental value for residents, has been temporarily removed to allow construction work to proceed safely. Authorities have confirmed that the landmark will be reinstated after the completion of the tunnel, preserving its original form and symbolic presence in the area.
Sheikh Dr Sultan noted that the redesign process will ensure the monument returns to its original location once engineering works are finalised. The decision reflects an effort to balance infrastructure development with cultural preservation, ensuring that the visual identity of the area is maintained even as major transport upgrades are implemented. Work is already underway, with engineers actively redesigning the site layout and preparing for reinstatement following completion of the underground passage.
Road expansion
Alongside the tunnel, Sharjah is also developing a new route known as Noor Road, which extends from Al Orooba Street and leads directly towards Dubai via Al Nahda Bridge. The road is scheduled to open by the end of this year and is expected to further ease pressure on existing arterial routes.
Sheikh Dr Sultan highlighted that the combined projects will create additional corridors linking Sharjah with major highways, including Emirates Road and Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road. These connections are designed to distribute traffic more evenly across the network, reducing bottlenecks during peak hours and improving overall mobility.
Directional signage will also be installed along the new and upgraded routes, guiding motorists towards key destinations such as Expo Centre Sharjah. The improved access is expected to provide uninterrupted entry to the venue’s parking areas, supporting smoother visitor movement during events and exhibitions.
Traffic flow
The infrastructure programme is expected to significantly enhance cross-emirate mobility, particularly for daily commuters travelling between Sharjah and Dubai. By introducing underground traffic separation and expanding surface-level road capacity, authorities aim to reduce delays and improve journey reliability across one of the region’s most heavily used transport corridors.
Sheikh Dr Sultan emphasised that the developments reflect Sharjah’s broader approach to openness and connectivity with neighbouring emirates. He confirmed that all design plans are complete and that the project designer remains actively on site to oversee implementation.