A new infrastructure link has improved access to the waterfront destination while also helping to ease traffic congestion.
Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has inaugurated a new bridge in the Dubai Harbour area as part of efforts to strengthen integrated infrastructure and support the emirate’s rapid urban and economic expansion.
The bridge enhances connectivity to one of Dubai’s key waterfront destinations, which is home to the largest yacht marinas in the Middle East.
The newly opened bridge provides faster access from Sheikh Zayed Road and features two lanes in each direction, with the capacity to accommodate up to 6,000 vehicles per hour.
The bridge provides a direct entry to Dubai Harbour from Sheikh Zayed Road, enhancing accessibility for motorists travelling from both Jebel Ali and Deira.
According to the RTA, the project has significantly reduced travel time in the area from 12 minutes to just 3 minutes, helping to ease congestion and improve overall traffic flow.
Additional traffic links, including routes from Dubai Harbour to Al Naseem Street and connections with King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street, are expected to open in July, when the project is fully completed.
Part of Wider Infrastructure Upgrades
The project forms part of a broader package of infrastructure works that includes surface improvements along the bridge corridor, upgrades at key connected intersections, and enhanced traffic distribution across surrounding road networks.
Bridge Design and Capacity
The bridge begins at Interchange 5 on Sheikh Zayed Road, near the American University in Dubai, and extends to Dubai Harbour Street, crossing several key intersections along the route.
Key Specifications
The bridge features two lanes in each direction and is designed to handle up to 6,000 vehicles per hour in both directions. It spans a total length of 1,500 metres, supporting improved traffic flow and connectivity along the corridor.
Five Ramps Integrated into the Network
The RTA confirmed that the project includes five integrated ramps, along with at-grade improvements at four key intersections to further enhance traffic flow and connectivity across the network.
Construction Progress and Scale
According to the RTA, construction of the project is now 90% complete, with work progressing at an accelerated pace.
The project involved:
- Over 1,400 engineers and workers
- Around 4.2 million work hours
- Zero lost-time injuries recorded
Construction also utilised:
- More than 45,000 cubic metres of concrete
- 8,200 tonnes of steel
- 254 piles and 66 bridge columns
Boost for Dubai Harbour Development
Located between Palm Jumeirah and Bluewaters Island, Dubai Harbour is a major waterfront destination and home to the region’s largest yacht marina, with the new infrastructure expected to further enhance its accessibility and development appeal.
The area is also undergoing significant expansion, including a 1.5-kilometre development comprising 24 residential towers and approximately 7,500 apartments.
Once fully operational, the new bridge is expected to improve access, reduce congestion, and support future growth across the district.
The RTA stated that the project aligns with its broader strategy to develop an integrated transport network that supports Dubai’s expanding urban landscape and economic activity.
The bridge is also expected to enhance accessibility to Dubai Harbour, strengthening its position as a major tourism and leisure hub while improving mobility for both residents and visitors.
