Abu Dhabi government has announced the launch of a new Dh1.13-billion ($356 million) road project that will link Al Reem and Umm Lafina islands to Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Road in the UAE capital.

The project will be executed through two contracts and is likely to be completed by the second quarter of 2020, reported state news agency Wam, citing Abu Dhabi's Department of Transport (DoT) officials.

The first contract will include the construction of a road with three lanes in each direction for 6.5 km, starting from Al Reem Island and passing through Umm Lafina Island - North and South. In addition, the project will include building three bridges above water canals to maintain the navigation of traffic, it stated.

The other contract will include the establishment of a 4 km road above water and areas with mangroves to connect the south side of Umm Lafina Island with Sheikh Zayed Road.

Moreover, two bridges will be built to pass through the water canals and the main intersection to ease traffic in all the directions around Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Road, said the Wam report.

After laying the foundation stone for the project, Khalifa Mohammed Al Mazrouei, the under-secretary of DoT, said it is part of the main projects that DoT is pursuing in surface transport to achieve Abu Dhabi’s goals, enhance the level of infrastructure, and support economic growth in the emirate.

"The Dh1.13-billion project includes the establishment of a road that will link Al Reem and Umm Lafina islands to Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Road in Abu Dhabi on the intersection of Dhafeer Street," he added.

The cermony was attended by Ahmed Mohammed Shareef Al Khouri, the chairman of Abu Dhabi General Services Company (Musanada) and a number of representatives from DoT and Musanada.

Musanada's acting CEO Suwaidan Rashed Suwaidan Al Dhaheri said the 10.5-km road will include five bridges, 4 km of which is above water.

"The project will include pedestrian and cycling lanes, which will be constructed along with other facilities and bike renting shops in order to create an integrated project with all the services and facilities needed," he noted.

Arch-shaped concrete tiles will be used to preserve the environment, ensure the flow of water, reduce bad effects on mangroves trees, and enhance the navigation of traffic in the area, he added.