Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has opened the 1,650-m-long Al Khaleej Street Tunnel that extends from the end of the Infinity Bridge ramp in Deira to the intersection of Al Khaleej Street and Al Wuheida Street. It features three lanes in each direction, with a combined capacity of 12,000 vehicles per hour.

The opening marks another milestone in Al Shindagha Corridor Improvement Project, in line with the directives of the leadership, to continue developing Dubai’s road network and infrastructure to keep pace with the emirate’s rapid urban and population growth. 

The project will enhance traffic flow, strengthen connectivity between residential and commercial areas and major developments, facilitate mobility for residents and visitors, and improve quality of life.

Announcing the launch, RTA Director General Mattar Al Tayer said this marks further progress on Al Shindagha Corridor Development Project, one of Dubai’s major strategic road infrastructure projects. 

“It reflects RTA’s commitment to completing the development of key road corridors, strengthening integration across the road network, and delivering sustainable traffic solutions that accommodate continued growth in vehicle volumes, keep pace with the emirate’s urban and economic development, and support Dubai’s objectives of providing a safe, seamless and sustainable mobility system,” he stated.

According to RTA, the project has achieved a significant milestone, recording nearly 11 million work hours since construction began, with the highest occupational safety standards maintained and no injuries reported. 

A total of 2,200 engineers, technicians and workers have contributed to the project, supported by 350 pieces of heavy and light equipment and machinery deployed across the construction sites, it stated.

In addition, 77% of the materials excavated during tunnel construction, estimated at approximately 522,000 cu m, have been reused in projects undertaken by RTA and other entities. 

This initiative supports resource efficiency, reduces construction waste and reinforces sustainable construction practices.

Al Khaleej Street Tunnel is an integral component of Al Shindagha Corridor Development Project, which extends 13 km along Sheikh Rashid Road, Al Mina Street, Al Khaleej Street and Cairo Street. 

The project includes development of 15 intersections and serves several key residential areas and major developments, most notably Dubai Islands, Dubai Waterfront, Dubai Maritime City and Port Rashid. The project is estimated to serve approximately one million people, it stated.

Al Tayer said: “The tunnel represents a significant addition to Deira’s road network, an area experiencing rapid urban and commercial expansion, particularly with the development of new residential and tourism destinations, including Abu Hail, Al Wuheida and Al Mamzar, as well as major developments such as Dubai Islands, Waterfront Market and Al Hamriya Port.”

“The project will enhance traffic flow along Al Khaleej Street, provide free-flowing traffic for motorists travelling from Infinity Bridge towards Deira and Al Mamzar and vice versa, and strengthen connectivity between residential areas, commercial centres and tourist destinations. It will also facilitate access for residents and visitors, enhance the area's appeal, support economic and commercial activity, and improve quality of life,” he added.-TradeArabia News Service