Latest news with #RoadsAndTransportAuthority
Khaleej Times
an hour ago
- Khaleej Times
Dubai: Traffic diversion on Al Qudra Road from June 22
Starting June 22, a temporary traffic diversion will be in place at the Arabian Ranches Junction, Dubai's Roads and Transports Authority (RTA) announced. The diversion will be implemented for 5 months as part of improving intersections on Al Qudra Road. The authority will carry out bridge construction works to enhance traffic flow. Some changes include: Road users should "plan trips in advance, head out early, and avoid peak hours," RTA added.
Khaleej Times
2 days ago
- Automotive
- Khaleej Times
Dubai is Quietly Building the Future of the Automotive Industry
When I first arrived in Dubai in 2008, the city was a place of bold contrasts. It was grappling with the fallout of the global financial crisis, yet there remained a quiet, determined confidence in its future. Even then, you could sense that Dubai wouldn't just recover — it would reimagine what recovery looked like. Today, that prediction has come true. Dubai has transformed into one of the world's most dynamic testbeds for mobility innovation. What was once a market focused on car ownership is now a launchpad for pioneering ideas in sustainability, digitalisation, and smart transport. This evolution isn't incidental — it's intentional, enabled by a city that's wired for vision and progress. Dubai's geographic location has long made it a global gateway. But what truly sets the city apart is its mindset: an unwavering belief in building the future before others dare to imagine it. The Roads and Transport Authority's plan to introduce air taxis by 2026 is a case in point. What may sound like science fiction elsewhere is already moving into operational planning here, converting a 45-minute commute into a 12-minute airborne journey. Beneath these headlines is a deeper reality: a regulatory and business ecosystem that supports ambition. Programmes like the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 and Vision 2030 aren't just slogans; they are action plans that prioritize diversification, sustainability, and the seamless integration of technology into everyday life. For the automotive sector, this means Dubai offers something rare — a real-world lab where electric, hydrogen, and autonomous mobility solutions can be trialled, refined, and scaled with minimal red tape. At AGMC, we've experienced this transformation firsthand. As the official importer for BMW, MINI, and Rolls-Royce in the region, we've seen electric vehicle (EV) adoption gain strong momentum — thanks to a blend of consumer enthusiasm, progressive regulation, and business commitment. Today, more than 47,000 green vehicles are registered in the emirate, with fully electric cars making up the majority. Still, the path forward has its challenges. EV infrastructure remains a work in progress. While many villa residents enjoy home charging, the next wave of growth depends on scaling solutions for apartments and urban clusters. The public sector is expanding its charging network, but accelerating adoption will require coordinated efforts across government, utility providers, automakers, and real estate developers. There are also questions around EV residual value. As the market matures, the secondary resale ecosystem will need time — and data — to develop. But Dubai's unique mix of early adopters and tech-forward consumers means we're generating insights faster than many more established markets. What inspires me most, though, is the human story behind the innovation. Dubai is a global talent magnet, bringing together engineers, designers, software developers, and strategists from across continents. It is this cross-pollination of perspectives that fuels meaningful progress — not just in what we build, but how we build it. From hydrogen-powered fleets to connected mobility ecosystems and AI-optimised traffic flows, the future of transport is not on the horizon — it's already taking shape. And while flying cars may remain in the realm of fantasy, Dubai's air taxis suggest we're closer than we think. Ultimately, Dubai teaches us a vital lesson: the future doesn't just arrive — it is built, deliberately and ambitiously. And there are few places in the world where that drive to build is more evident, or more effective, than here.
The National
08-06-2025
- Business
- The National
Dubai's RTA begins major roadworks project to run through the summer
The transport authority in Dubai has begun work to improve traffic in the emirate at 40 locations over the summer period. The first phase of the work will cover 22 major streets, nine school zones, more than five development areas, and several internal roads in the Tolerance District, Al Khawaneej 2 and Nad Al Sheba, stated the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). The roadworks will be carried out to 'minimise disruption to daily traffic flow', the RTA said in a statement released on Sunday. The next phase will include traffic enhancements at locations such as Jumeirah Village Circle towards Hessa Street, Ras Al Khor Road, Al Thanya Street, and King Salmanbin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street. Additional improvements are to be made to Al Meydan Street, Al Sa'ada Street, Al Asayel Street, and the junction of Al Wasl Street with Al Manara Street. The RTA is also undertaking roadworks at nine school zone locations including upgrades at the Al Warqa 1 school complex, the construction of an additional bus entrance at Gems Education in Al Warqa 3, the widening of access and exit points around The English College in Al Safa 1 on Sheikh Zayed Road, and the installation of a signal-controlled pedestrian crossing on Al Seedaf Street in Al Barsha 1. Work is also being carried at 'five major development zones' as a result of the emirate's population growth and booming economy, the RTA said. This includes the construction of a direct access route to Al Muhaisnah labour camps from Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, upgrades to Al Mustaqbal Street (Brookfield) for improved access to newly developed residential communities, better connectivity between Al Khail Road and Al Asayel Street via Al Marabea Street, and enhancements at Nad Al Hamar junction near Lootah Mosque. Additionally, new parking facilities will be developed to serve the Zayed Educational Complex in Oud Al Muteena 1. Internal roadworks will also be carried out in areas including Tolerance District, Al Khawaneej 2, Jebel Ali Industrial 1, Nad Al Sheba, and Al Warqa. Pedestrian walkways will also be constructed in Al Quoz Creative Zone to 'improve pedestrian safety'.
Khaleej Times
05-06-2025
- General
- Khaleej Times
Eid Al Adha in UAE: Free parking, revised public transport timings; full guide
With a four-day weekend being announced across the UAE for Eid Al Adha this year, residents are flying out and planning activities with their families. Also known as the 'Festival of Sacrifice,' the holiday commemorates the act of faith and is generally a time for prayer, reflection, and generosity. Here's the latest on revised parking and public transport timings across emirates: Abu Dhabi Parking and toll fees are typically free in the capital on Sundays and official holidays. On June 4, the emirate's Integrated Transport Centre (ITC), an affiliate of the Department of Municipalities and Transport, has announced that bus services will operate according to the weekend and public holiday schedule. There are additional trips on regional and intercity routes. The Abu Dhabi Link service will continue to operate as usual, from 6am to 11pm. Meanwhile, the Abu Dhabi Express bus service will be available from 6am until midnight. Dubai Public parking will be free to use from June 5 to 8 in Dubai, the Roads and Transport Authority announced. Multi-level parking terminals will remain a paid service during the holiday. The authority also announced public transport timings for the holiday. Dubai Metro will run from 5am to 1am (next day) from Wednesday, June 4, to Saturday, June 7. Click here for more on Tram and public bus timings. Salik PJSC, Dubai's toll operator, will implement variable road toll pricing on all four days of the Eid El Adha holiday, including Sunday (June 8; third day of Eid al Adha). Sharjah Sharjah has announced free parking from June 6 to June 8 during the Eid Al Adha holiday, the Sharjah Municipality stated on June 4. This exemption does not apply to the seven-day paid public parking zones, which are operational throughout the week and official holidays, and identified by the blue parking information signs. Ajman will offer free public parking from June 5 to 8, with regular fees resuming on June 9.
Arabian Business
03-06-2025
- Business
- Arabian Business
Dubai unveils major Al Wasl Road upgrade: 15km development to cut travel times in half and boost capacity
The RTA is set to transform travel on Dubai's Al Wasl Road with new tunnels, wider roads and faster journey times. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced an integrated project to upgrade Al Wasl Road. The initiative also aims to address urban expansion, accommodate population growth, and enhance the quality of life for both residents and visitors. Al Wasl Road Dubai traffic plan The development spans 15 km, from the intersection with Umm Suqeim Street to the junction with 2nd December Street in Dubai. It includes the upgrade of six intersections, comprising enhancements to one junction and the construction of five tunnels totalling 3.85km. The street will be widened from two to three lanes in each direction. The project is expected to reduce travel times along Al Wasl Road by 50 per cent and increase capacity from 8,000 to 12,000 vehicles per hour in both directions. Mattar Al Tayer, Director General, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the Roads and Transport Authority, said: 'Al Wasl Road Development Project forms part of a master plan developed by the RTA to upgrade the road network in the area, which also includes enhancements to Umm Suqeim and Al Safa Streets. 'These projects are designed with a focus on creative and aesthetic elements, incorporating dedicated pedestrian walkways, cycling tracks, boulevards, and vibrant urban public spaces that promote community interaction. 'The plan also features decorative landscaping and the creation of dynamic urban environments. The project serves a vital district that offers a broad array of modern tourism and lifestyle destinations, including beaches, luxury hotels, fine dining venues, and residential neighbourhoods, home to over one million residents'. The project involves the development of Al Wasl Road from its intersection with Umm Suqeim Street to its junction with 2nd December Street, spanning a total length of 15 km. The street will be widened from two to three lanes in each direction. It also includes the upgrade of six intersections along Dubai's Al Wasl Road, specifically at: Al Thanya Al Manara Umm Al Sheif Umm Amara Al Orouba Al Safa Streets This will be achieved through the construction of five tunnels with a total length of 3.85km. Al Tayer said: 'The intersection with Al Thanya Street will undergo improvements, while a unidirectional tunnel will be constructed at the intersection with Al Manara Street. This tunnel will consist of three lanes and branch into two separate routes: two lanes from Sheikh Zayed Road to Jumeirah Street, and two lanes from Sheikh Zayed Road to Umm Suqeim Street, with a total capacity of 4,500 vehicles per hour. 'The project also includes a tunnel on Umm Al Sheif Street, comprising two lanes in the direction from Sheikh Zayed Road to Jumeirah Street. This tunnel will be 750m long and will accommodate up to 3,200 vehicles per hour. 'In addition, a tunnel will be constructed at the intersection of Al Wasl Road with Umm Amara Street, featuring two lanes in each direction, with a total length of 700m and a combined capacity of 6,400 vehicles per hour'. The project includes the construction of a unidirectional tunnel at the intersection of Al Wasl Road with Al Orouba Street, heading towards Jumeirah Street. The tunnel will be 625m long, with two lanes and a capacity of 1,400 vehicles per hour. It also entails the construction of a tunnel at the intersection of Al Wasl Road with Al Safa Street, measuring 750 metres in length and featuring two lanes in each direction, with an estimated total capacity of 6,400 vehicles per hour. Al Tayer added: 'The project will also convert the Al Satwa roundabout into a signalised junction and implement surface-level enhancements at five intersections along Jumeirah Street, including upgrades to the traffic signal control system.' upgrade of Umm Suqeim Street from its intersection with Jumeirah Street to its junction with Al Khail Road. Once complete, this upgrade will increase the street's capacity from 12,000 to 16,000 vehicles per hour in both directions. It will also improve traffic flow and reduce travel time along the stretch between Jumeirah Street and Al Khail Road, from 20 minutes to just 6 minutes. The corridor serves a wide range of residential and development zones, with an estimated population exceeding two million residents. The project also encompasses the development of six intersections along Umm Suqeim Street at: Jumeirah Street Al Wasl Road Sheikh Zayed Road First Al Khail Road Al Asayel Street Al Khail Road It includes the construction of four bridges and three tunnels, totalling 4.1km in length. A tunnel will be built at the intersection of Umm Suqeim Street with Jumeirah Street, comprising two lanes in each direction, along with a signalised surface-level junction. Another tunnel will be constructed at the intersection with Al Wasl Road, featuring two lanes in the direction from Sheikh Zayed Road to Jumeirah Street, while maintaining seamless surface-level flow towards Sheikh Zayed Road in Dubai. The project also includes the construction of two bridges at the intersection of Umm Suqeim Street with Sheikh Zayed Road, designed to eliminate traffic weaving and overlap at the existing junction. As part of our master plan to upgrade #Dubai 's road network, #RTA has announced an integrated project to upgrade Al Wasl Street, covering Umm Suqeim and Al Safa Streets. The development spans from the intersection with Umm Suqeim Street to the junction with 2nd December Street.… — RTA (@rta_dubai) June 3, 2025 Additionally, a tunnel will be built at the intersection of Umm Suqeim Street with First Al Khail Road to facilitate traffic flow from Al Barsha towards Sheikh Zayed Road, accompanied by surface-level enhancements at the intersection. The project further involves the addition of a new lane on Umm Suqeim Street from its intersection with First Al Khail Road to Al Asayel Street, increasing the total to four lanes in each direction. Moreover, two elevated ramps will be constructed at the intersection with Al Khail Road: The first will connect Al Khail Road to the Al Quoz Industrial Area The second will facilitate traffic movement from Umm Suqeim Street to Al Khail Road in the direction of Deira The RTA is currently undertaking the development of Umm Suqeim Street from its intersection with Al Khail Road to its junction with Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, extending further to the intersection with Emirates Road. The scope of work includes the upgrade of the intersection with Al Barsha South through the construction of an 800-metre tunnel featuring four lanes in each direction, alongside a signalised surface-level intersection. The project also involves the upgrade of major intersections along Al Qudra Road—starting from its intersection with Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, passing through Sheikh Zayed bin Hamdan Al Nahyan Street, and continuing to Emirates Road. This phase includes the development of several intersections, the construction of bridges totalling 2,700 metres in length, and the upgrade and widening of the existing street along an 11.6 km stretch.
