A major road link designed to reshape access to Dubai Harbour is moving closer to delivery, with construction now more than halfway complete, according to the Roads and Transport Authority.
The Dh431 million project involves a 1.5-kilometre, two-lane bridge that will connect Sheikh Zayed Road directly to Dubai Harbour. When operational, the structure is expected to accommodate up to 6,000 vehicles per hour and significantly ease pressure on surrounding routes.
RTA said 65 per cent of construction works have been finished, alongside substantial progress on related infrastructure. About 90 per cent of utility diversion and adjustment works linked to the project have already been completed, reducing the risk of delays as the build advances.
The authority expects the bridge to be completed in the third quarter of the year, between July and September, as part of a broader collaboration with Shamal Holding, the owner of Dubai Harbour. The partnership targets a sharp reduction in travel times, with average journeys projected to fall from 12 minutes to just three.
“This project reflects the directives of our leadership to develop an integrated infrastructure that supports the rapid urban and economic growth witnessed by Dubai,” said Mattar Al Tayer, director general of the RTA.
“The project includes the construction of a bridge extending from Interchange 5 on Sheikh Zayed Road, near the American University in Dubai, passing through the intersection of Al Naseem Street and Al Falak Street, and crossing over King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street, before connecting to Dubai Harbour Street.
“The project also includes at-grade improvement works at four key intersections along the corridor: Interchange 5 on Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Falak Street with Al Naseem Street intersection, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street with Al Naseem Street intersection, and Dubai Harbour Street.
“Once completed, the project will enhance traffic flow and reduce travel time from 12 minutes to just three.”
Dubai Harbour sits between Palm Jumeirah and Bluewaters and has been positioned as a waterfront hub combining cruise tourism, residential developments and leisure offerings. It houses two cruise terminals covering 120,000 square metres and became the permanent venue of the Dubai International Boat Show in 2022.
Large-scale residential expansion is also under way in the district. A separate 1.5-kilometre development will introduce around 7,500 apartments across 24 towers. In June, Shamal awarded a Dh1 billion contract to Khansaheb Civil Engineering for the main construction works of Dubai Harbour Residences, a beachfront project focused on low-rise living.
Abdulla Binhabtoor, chief executive officer of Shamal Holding, said: “Dubai Harbour Bridge represents a significant advancement in infrastructure connecting the city to its waterfront, further strengthening Dubai Harbour’s position as a fully integrated and highly connected maritime destination.”
“The bridge also facilitates daily commute to and from Dubai Harbour through its direct connection to Sheikh Zayed Road, enhancing the quality of life for residents and visitors alike.”
