New Dubai bridge set to slash travel time from 12 minutes to three
Direct Sheikh Zayed Road connection improves waterfront accessibility
DUBAI – Dubai’s expanding waterfront is set for a major connectivity boost as construction of a new bridge leading to Dubai Harbour reaches 65% completion.
The project introduces a direct road link from Sheikh Zayed Road into one of the city’s most prominent maritime and lifestyle destinations. Once open, the journey time to the area is expected to drop dramatically from 12 minutes to just three.
Developed by the Roads and Transport Authority in collaboration with Shamal Holding, the scheme centres on a 1,500-metre bridge designed to support rising traffic demand linked to residential, tourism and marine developments. The structure forms part of a wider network of upgrades intended to keep pace with Dubai’s rapid urban expansion along its coastline.
Project scope
The bridge will feature two lanes in each direction, delivering a total traffic capacity of around 6,000 vehicles per hour. It begins at Interchange 5 on Sheikh Zayed Road, near the American University in Dubai, and extends through the intersection of Al Naseem Street and Al Falak Street. From there, it crosses King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street before linking directly to Dubai Harbour Street.
Alongside the elevated structure, the project includes at-grade improvements at four major intersections. These are Interchange 5 on Sheikh Zayed Road, the Al Falak Street and Al Naseem Street junction, the King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street and Al Naseem Street intersection, and the connection at Dubai Harbour Street. The combined works are designed to streamline vehicle movement across the corridor and reduce congestion at key entry and exit points.
Construction progress
Contractors have completed 90% of works related to upgrading and adjusting utility services intersecting the project corridor. Approved traffic diversions have also been implemented, allowing construction to proceed while maintaining steady traffic flow in surrounding areas. The project timeline targets completion in the third quarter of the current year.
According to RTA leadership, the bridge reflects ongoing efforts to deliver integrated infrastructure aligned with Dubai’s urban development plans. The initiative supports new growth zones and waterfront districts, ensuring road and transport systems evolve in tandem with large-scale real estate and tourism investments.
Harbour access
Dubai Harbour is positioned between Bluewaters Island and Palm Jumeirah, close to major landmarks including Burj Al Arab. It hosts the largest yacht marinas in the Middle East and has developed into a mixed-use destination combining residential towers, retail outlets and leisure attractions.
A separate development programme is under way across a 1.5km stretch of the harbour district, featuring a residential complex of 24 towers and approximately 7,500 apartments. The new bridge is expected to play a central role in supporting traffic linked to these homes, as well as visitors heading to the marina, cruise facilities and hospitality venues.
Shamal Holding describes the bridge as a key step in strengthening Dubai Harbour’s status as an integrated maritime destination. The direct connection to Sheikh Zayed Road is designed to ease daily commuting patterns while reinforcing the area’s accessibility for residents, tourists and marine visitors.