Dubai: New bridge opens on Sheikh Zayed Road, direct access to Mall of the Emirates

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), in partnership with Majid Al Futtaim Properties, has opened a new bridge on Sheikh Zayed Road that gives motorists from Abu Dhabi and Jebel Ali direct access to Mall of the Emirates.

The 300-metre, single-lane bridge can carry up to 900 vehicles per hour. Officials said the link will reduce travel time to the mall from 10 minutes to just one minute.

The project also converted the road next to the Kempinski Hotel from one-way to two-way traffic and upgraded entrances, intersections, pedestrian walkways and cycling tracks around the mall.

Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of RTA, said the new bridge will “improve traffic flow and facilitate the mobility of residents and visitors across various areas".

RTA’s wider works included widening the southbound ramp at Umm Suqeim junction, redeveloping six signalised intersections, modifying the bus station at Mall of the Emirates Metro Station and upgrading 2.5km of surrounding roads. Enhancements also covered paving, lighting, stormwater drainage and landscaping.

Mall of the Emirates, opened in 2005, attracts more than 40 million visitors each year. To mark its 20th anniversary, operator Majid Al Futtaim has announced a Dh5 billion redevelopment plan. The expansion will add 20,000 square metres of retail space, with up to 100 new luxury and lifestyle outlets, along with a health club, cultural centre and a new dining district.

The mall is also home to three five-star hotels and is directly connected to the Dubai Metro via a pedestrian bridge.