The Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has unveiled an extensive project to upgrade Al Wasl Road, aiming to enhance traffic flow and accommodate the city’s growing population.

The development, spanning 15km, includes widening the road and constructing new tunnels, with the goal of reducing travel times by 50%.

The project will see Al Wasl Road expanded from two to three lanes in each direction, increasing the capacity from 8,000 to 12,000 vehicles per hour.

RTA director general and chair of the board of executive directors Mattar Al Tayer said: “Al Wasl Road Development Project forms part of a master plan developed by the RTA to upgrade the road network in the area, which also includes enhancements to Umm Suqeim and Al Safa Streets.

“These projects are designed with a focus on creative and aesthetic elements, incorporating dedicated pedestrian walkways, cycling tracks, boulevards, and vibrant urban public spaces that promote community interaction. The plan also features decorative landscaping and the creation of dynamic urban environments.

“The project serves a vital district that offers a broad array of modern tourism and lifestyle destinations, including beaches, luxury hotels, fine dining venues, and residential neighbourhoods, home to over one million residents.â€

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It includes the upgrade of six intersections, as well as the construction of five tunnels totalling 3,850m.

The intersection with Al Thanya Street will be improved, and a unidirectional tunnel will be built at the junction with Al Manara Street, designed to handle 4,500 vehicles per hour.

Further enhancements include a 750m tunnel on Umm Al Sheif Street, accommodating 3,200 vehicles per hour, and a 700m tunnel at Umm Amara Street, with a capacity of 6,400 vehicles per hour.

Additionally, a 625m  tunnel will be constructed at Al Orouba Street, and a 750m tunnel at Al Safa Street, each with two lanes and a combined capacity of 6,400 vehicles per hour.

The Al Wasl Road Development Project is part of a larger master plan by RTA, which includes upgrading Umm Suqeim Street to increase its capacity to 16,000 vehicles per hour.

This corridor serves over two million residents and will see the construction of bridges and tunnels to improve traffic flow.

The project also covers the development of Umm Suqeim Street from its intersection with Al Khail Road to Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, including the construction of an 800m tunnel with four lanes at Al Barsha South.

Major intersections along Al Qudra Road will also be upgraded, with bridges totalling 2,700m and an 11.6km street widening, reducing travel time significantly.