Abu Dhabi unveils new Dh315m bridges to ease traffic congestion
Cycle paths, landscaping, and safety milestones add sustainable value
ABU DHABI: The Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) has inaugurated two new bridges, significantly improving traffic flow between Al Khaleej Al Arabi Street and Shakhbout Bin Sultan Street towards Musaffah.
The Dh315 million project is part of Abu Dhabi’s ongoing efforts to enhance infrastructure and connectivity across the United Arab Emirates (UAE) capital. It promises to slash traffic delays at the intersection by up to 80 percent during peak morning hours, accommodating 7,500 vehicles per hour. This upgrade ensures smoother commutes for residents and visitors traveling to key destinations, including Zayed International Airport, Mussafah, and Hudayriyat Island.
The project, a collaboration between DMT and the Integrated Transport Centre, is a step forward in Abu Dhabi’s drive to become a global leader in infrastructure. It reflects the city’s commitment to providing smart, sustainable, and efficient solutions for its growing population.
State-of-the-art design
The newly constructed infrastructure includes a three-lane flyover bridge on Al Khaleej Al Arabi Street and a two-lane bridge linking Shakhbout Bin Sultan Street to Al Khaleej Al Arabi Street. Together, these bridges span 742 metres with a surface area of 10,242 square metres.
Supporting ramps extend 990 metres, bolstered by 12 piers. The project also features 61 streetlights, dedicated cycle and pedestrian paths, and over 46,000 square metres of sustainable landscaping.
Safety and sustainability
The construction achieved over 3 million safe man-hours without a single lost time incident (LTI), underscoring its commitment to safety. Additionally, 15,354m³ of concrete were used, reflecting the scale and meticulous planning involved in the project.
Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of DMT, highlighted the project’s alignment with Abu Dhabi’s vision for a connected, liveable city. “Our mission is to create seamless and sustainable transportation networks while alleviating congestion and ensuring safety. This new infrastructure, delivered on time and budget, marks the beginning of a transformative phase in Abu Dhabi’s development,” he stated.
The upgrade is more than a short-term solution; it includes provisions for future growth, such as preparations for an underpass project. This adaptability ensures the infrastructure will continue to meet evolving transportation needs as Abu Dhabi experiences rapid economic and population growth.
The newly constructed bridges are expected to have a widespread impact, reducing average delay times to just 20 seconds during morning peak hours. They offer a smoother flow along one of Abu Dhabi’s busiest corridors, benefiting commuters and enhancing the overall quality of life for citizens and residents.