The Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure has kicked off a major Dh750 million project to upgrade Emirates Road, one of the UAE’s busiest highways, in a two-year development plan aimed at easing congestion and creating a smarter, more sustainable transport network.
As part of the federal government’s wider strategy to modernise its road system, the project will expand the highway from three to five lanes in each direction across a 25-kilometre stretch between the Al Badea Interchange and the Umm Al Quwain border. Once complete, the upgraded road will be able to accommodate up to 9,000 vehicles per hour — a 65 per cent jump in capacity.
Major interchange revamp
A key highlight of the plan is the redevelopment of Interchange 7, which will feature six new directional bridges spanning 12.6 kilometres. This critical upgrade will support the flow of 13,200 vehicles per hour and ensure smoother connectivity between key emirates. In addition, 3.4 kilometres of service roads will be constructed on both sides of the highway to improve local access.
Faster, safer, greener travel
The ministry estimates the project will reduce travel times by up to 45 per cent for motorists commuting between Ras Al Khaimah, Umm Al Quwain, Sharjah and Dubai. By easing bottlenecks on one of the country’s most heavily used federal roads, the development will also cut vehicle emissions caused by congestion while supporting trade and logistics flows across the emirates.
“This project is a practical, sustainable solution to traffic congestion and a milestone in building an integrated road network that meets the UAE’s economic and population growth,” said Yousif Al Abdulla, Assistant Undersecretary for Federal Infrastructure Projects at the ministry.
He emphasised that the initiative reflects the UAE’s commitment to adopting innovative mobility solutions, reducing emissions, and enhancing overall quality of life for residents and visitors.
Supporting UAE Vision 2031
Officials stressed that the Emirates Road expansion is more than a road-widening effort. It is a key element of the UAE’s broader push to establish a world-class highway network that is efficient, resilient, and environmentally sustainable. The project directly supports the We the UAE 2031 vision, which seeks to place the nation among the world’s top 10 economies.
Public updates and safety
To ensure transparency, the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure will share regular progress reports and traffic guidance through its official social media channels. Motorists are urged to drive cautiously within the construction zones and to follow updates on alternative routes and safety measures.
Once completed, the Emirates Road upgrade is expected to redefine mobility across the northern emirates, offering faster, safer, and greener travel while reinforcing the UAE’s position as a global leader in infrastructure development.
