Dubai sees 45pc faster journeys as RTA delivers rapid traffic upgrades
Key arterial roads see wider lanes and improved flow
DUBAI – Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) successfully implemented 67 rapid traffic improvement measures across the emirate in 2025, enhancing mobility, road safety, and journey efficiency.
The initiatives included 46 enhancements along major arterial roads and residential areas, 12 improvements in school zones, and nine targeted measures within development areas.
These projects form part of a strategic plan aimed at optimising road networks, reducing congestion, and improving connectivity across Dubai.
Major road upgrades
Several key areas and arterial roads witnessed significant improvements last year. The RTA delivered upgrades in Al Warqa’a, Al Barsha South, Nad Al Hamar, and Al Ras, as well as along major corridors including Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Meydan Street, Emirates Road towards Sharjah, Umm Al Sheif Street, Al Wasl Street, Ras Al Khor Road, Sheikh Zayed bin Hamdan Al Nahyan Street, and Al Manara Street.
Notable interventions included widening Sheikh Zayed Road towards Al Meydan Street from two to three lanes at the entrance to Al Khawaneej, expanding Al Meydan Bridge from three to four lanes, and upgrading the exit from Sheikh Zayed Road to Al Meydan Street from one to two lanes.
Additional works enhanced the connecting links between at-grade roads and the bridge. At the intersection of Al Wasl Street and Al Manara Street, improvements increased vehicular capacity by 50% and reduced waiting times by more than 30%. These measures collectively boosted road network efficiency and reduced journey times by up to 45% in the affected areas.
School zone enhancements
The RTA also focused on improving traffic operations in school zones, implementing 12 dedicated measures serving over 30 schools across Dubai. Locations included Al Warqa’a First School Complex, Mizhar First School Complex, Al Qusais School Complex, Al Mawakeb School in Al Garhoud, English College in Al Safa 1, Zayed Educational Complex in Mizhar 4, and Al Barsha South School Complex.
Improvements featured dedicated parking areas, upgraded entry and exit points, and traffic calming measures. These initiatives reduced congestion and queuing around schools, enhanced traffic safety, and ensured smoother operations during peak hours, particularly benefiting students, parents, and commuters alike.
Looking ahead
The RTA plans to implement more than 45 additional traffic improvements in 2026. Planned projects include widening and upgrading key intersections, enhancing entry and exit points in residential and commercial districts, and delivering further rapid traffic measures within school zones.
These efforts support Dubai’s urban growth, strengthen connectivity between residential, educational, and development areas, and contribute to the city’s vision for sustainable infrastructure.