New Lanes and Bridges Cut Travel Time

RAK-Dubai Transport: New Lanes and Bridges to Reduce Travel Time on Emirates Road

The development of Emirates Road has reached another significant milestone in the UAE's transportation strategy. The congestion between Ras Al Khaimah and Dubai has long been a pressing issue, now being addressed by a 750 million dirham transportation investment. The project aims to reduce travel time between the two emirates by up to 45% through a modernized road network, new lanes, and directed bridges.

Why was the development necessary?

Emirates Road is one of the most important federal roads in the UAE. Travelers from Ras Al Khaimah, passing through Umm Al Quwain and Sharjah en route to Dubai, frequently encounter traffic jams, especially during morning and evening rush hours. Economic growth, rising population, and logistics demands have all contributed to the route reaching its capacity limits. The current three lanes per direction could not adequately handle the traffic.

The Ministry of Transport recognized the expansion of road infrastructure as essential not only for improving transportation efficiency but also for supporting freight transport, tourism, and everyday mobility.

Project details

Planned over two years, the main element of the development is the expansion of the road from three to five lanes in both directions over a 25-kilometer section, from Al Badee Interchange to Umm Al Quwain. This expansion will allow traffic capacity to reach 9,000 vehicles per hour, marking a 65% increase compared to the previous state.

As part of the road renovation, Interchange 7 will also be renewed, with six directed bridges being built totaling 12.6 km in length. These bridges will individually be able to handle up to 13,200 vehicles per hour. Additionally, new service roads stretching 3.4 km on both sides of the highway will be constructed to aid local traffic management.

Expected benefits for commuters and the economy

The most important outcome of the development is the drastic reduction in travel time. Travelers on the RAK-Dubai route, especially those commuting daily, will experience significant time savings. Reducing traffic jams directly contributes to decreasing fuel consumption, thereby also reducing emissions, which is advantageous from an environmental perspective.

Faster and more efficient road connectivity further facilitates the flow of trade between the different emirates. For freight traffic, this means both time and cost savings. Industrial zones, logistics parks, and tourism-dependent regions will become more accessible, promoting business connections and economic cooperation.

Sustainability and future-oriented infrastructure

The project represents not just a quantitative but also a qualitative advancement. The new bridges and lanes will not just accommodate more vehicles on the road, but also align with smart, future-proof transportation systems. The thoughtful design of road infrastructure allows for future integration of autonomous vehicles, electric buses, and other sustainable transportation forms.

During construction, reducing the ecological footprint is also considered. Noise protection solutions, rainwater drainage systems, and implementation based on environmental impact assessments all serve the goal of improving transportation without harming the environment.

Social impacts

The modernization of Emirates Road holds significant social impact beyond economic and transport considerations. Communities along the road—such as residents of Umm Al Quwain—have often lived in isolation due to traffic difficulties that hindered communication with other emirates. The improved road network facilitates access to healthcare, education, and administrative services.

The project also creates new jobs—not only during construction but also in the long term, as it is expected to boost activity in road transportation, tourism, and the logistics sector.

Summary

The comprehensive development of Emirates Road between Ras Al Khaimah and Dubai exemplifies the UAE's commitment to building modern, sustainable, and economically viable infrastructure. The investment goes beyond simple road expansion: it is part of a future-oriented transportation concept that considers the needs of the population, economy, and environment.

Once the project is completed by 2026, Emirates Road will not only offer a more comfortable and faster travel alternative but will also strengthen integration between regions, laying the foundation for sustainable growth throughout the UAE.

(The article source is a communication from the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MoEI).)