Sharjah's Transportation Overhaul: Key Road Closures

Sharjah's Transportation Overhaul: Temporary Road Closures for Etihad Rail Project

Sharjah is closing crucial roads between Mleiha Road and the Sharjah Ring Road for two months as part of the Etihad Rail project, which is reshaping the future of UAE transportation. The closure began on July 1st, 2025 and is expected to last until August 30th, affecting the University Bridge area as well. Authorities are recommending the use of alternative routes and are urging drivers to adhere strictly to traffic safety rules.

What is the Etihad Rail Project?

The Etihad Rail is the United Arab Emirates' national railway network, which connects all seven emirates and strengthens ties with the GCC countries. The railway, extending over 900 kilometers, aims to offer an efficient, safe, and environmentally friendly alternative for freight and passenger transport.

The project, initiated in 2009, has already shown significant progress:

Freight Transport: Freight services are operating at full capacity, reducing truck traffic and carbon emissions.

Passenger Transport: Under development, it will connect 11 cities and regions, from Al Sila to Fujairah.

Sharjah's Strategic Role in the Rail Network

Sharjah is becoming a prominent logistics and transportation hub in the Etihad Rail network. This project is particularly crucial for the city as it:

Provides connectivity to key logistics centers such as the Sharjah Inland Container Depot and industrial zones.

Strengthens links with neighboring emirates – Dubai, Ajman, and Ras Al Khaimah.

Enhances access to Sharjah International Airport and ports, facilitating cargo and passenger transport.

What Does This Mean for Residents?

The current closures may cause temporary inconveniences, but in the long run, they bring substantial benefits:

Road traffic, especially heavy-duty vehicles, will be reduced.

Air quality will improve due to reduced emissions.

Travel time between the emirates will be significantly shortened.

Development in transport infrastructure creates new opportunities for business and economic growth.

Summary

The Etihad Rail represents a turning point in transportation not only for residents of Sharjah but for the entire UAE. Although closures between Mleiha Road and the Sharjah Ring Road may cause inconvenience, they are a step towards a much more advanced, sustainable, and interconnected transportation future. Sharjah's commitment and active participation demonstrate its role in the nation's transformation.

(Source of the article: Sharjah Roads and Transport Authority announcement.)