Abu Dhabi opens two new bridges to slash traffic delays to 20 seconds during morning rush

Residents and commuters in Abu Dhabi are set to experience a substantial reduction in travel times following the opening of two new bridges, which are projected to slash journey durations by up to 80 per cent. The Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) confirmed that these developments aim to significantly improve traffic flow and reduce peak morning delays to an average of just 20 seconds.

According to the DMT, the bridges are part of a strategic upgrade along a key route connecting Al Khaleej Al Arabi Street to Shakhbout Bin Sultan Street, leading toward Mussafah. This essential route benefits thousands of commuters traveling to and from central Abu Dhabi, Zayed International Airport, Mussafah and Hudayriyat Island.

The Dh315-million project encompasses a three-lane flyover bridge on Al Khaleej Al Arabi Street and a two-lane bridge connecting Shakhbout Bin Sultan Street. Together, the new bridges include five lanes, feature 61 street lights, and span a total length of 742 metres, covering an area of 10,242sqm. Additionally, the connecting ramps extend 990 metres and are supported by 12 piers.

In addition to the bridges, the project involved significant landscaping upgrades, covering over 46,000sqm. Approximately 15,354 cubic metres of concrete were used in the construction process. The development achieved a key safety milestone, recording over three million safe man-hours without any lost time incidents (LTI).

The project also includes new pedestrian and cycling paths, enhanced service roads, and sustainable landscaping. Designed to accommodate up to 7,500 vehicles per hour, the upgrade aims to future-proof the area for growing transportation demands. Future projects, including an underpass, are also planned to address long-term infrastructure needs.

Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa, chairman of the Department of Municipalities and Transport, emphasized the broader significance of the new bridges within Abu Dhabi’s transportation strategy.

“DMT’s mission is to create a seamless, connected and liveable city through multiple modes of modern transportation while alleviating congestion, cutting journey times, improving transport safety, and protecting our environment", Al Shorafa stated.

Highlighting the DMT’s commitment to excellence, he added, “We are investing heavily to ensure Abu Dhabi’s infrastructure ranks among the very best in the world and that we meet the capital’s current and future transportation need".

Al Shorafa also noted the timely completion of the project as an essential milestone ahead of 2025.

It is fitting that this new infrastructure, delivered on time and budget, opens as we welcome 2025 – a year where a wave of transformative projects will be unveiled to accommodate Abu Dhabi’s rapid economic growth.

"This is only the very beginning. By working together with all stakeholders, DMT will accelerate the provision of the smart and sustainable infrastructure required by a growing population to move seamlessly through our city”, he concluded.

The newly opened bridges represent a significant leap forward in enhancing Abu Dhabi’s connectivity and reflect the emirate’s commitment to smart, sustainable urban growth.