Dubai Al Safa Street Improvement Project
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Home Local News Dubai RTA’s Al Safa Street Improvement Project Cuts Travel Time from 12 to 3 Minutes
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Dubai RTA’s Al Safa Street Improvement Project Cuts Travel Time from 12 to 3 Minutes

New tunnels, bridges and lane expansions transform a key urban corridor in Dubai

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in Dubai has announced a significant urban upgrade through the Dubai Al Safa Street Improvement Project. The initiative aims to drastically reduce travel time on a critical route in the city, from 12 minutes to just 3. Beyond improving daily commutes, the project supports Dubai’s long-term goals for sustainability, smart mobility, and urban efficiency.


Project highlights: smoother roads and smarter flow

New bridges and tunnels designed for maximum efficiency

The Al Safa Street Improvement Project covers a 1.5-kilometre stretch between Sheikh Zayed Road and Al Wasl Street. As part of the initiative, RTA is constructing two major bridges and two tunnels that will help ease congestion, especially during peak hours.

  • A kilometre-long bridge with eight lanes links Al Wasl Street to Sheikh Zayed Road and Financial Centre Street.
  • A second bridge offers two lanes that provide seamless access from Al Satwa to Sheikh Zayed Road.
  • In addition, the new tunnel system will handle high-capacity traffic between key intersections, further reducing delays and improving journey times.

The newly constructed lanes are expected to serve over 12,000 vehicles per hour—doubling the current capacity of 6,000.


Enhanced roads, safer routes

Under the project, Al Safa Street is being widened from three lanes each way to four, with two lanes flowing freely and two controlled by traffic signals. This smart distribution is designed to reduce bottlenecks and optimise traffic signals to ensure a smoother journey throughout the corridor.

Dubai shows its commitment to smart infrastructure that grows with the city and its commuters.

safe, walkable and green urban spaces

While the primary goal is to cut travel time and ease congestion, the Al Safa Street Improvement Project also places strong emphasis on enhancing the urban environment. As part of a broader vision for liveable cities, the project includes:

  • Dedicated pedestrian walkways for safer foot traffic
  • Cycling tracks that encourage greener mobility
  • Public plazas and landscaped areas that add visual appeal and promote community engagement

These additions not only support healthier, active lifestyles but also align with Dubai’s vision to become a leading smart and sustainable city.


Positive impact for commuters and communities

The revamped corridor plays a crucial role in connecting key districts like City Walk, Al Wasl, Business Bay, and Downtown Dubai. Residents and professionals commuting through these areas can expect faster and more predictable travel times, even during rush hours.

For businesses, improved access means better customer reach and reduced delays for logistics. For families and residents, the new layout enhances quality of life with easier movement and safer surroundings.


Aligned with Dubai’s future-ready mobility goals

This transformation is not a standalone effort—it is part of a comprehensive RTA strategy that also covers upgrades to Al Wasl Street, Umm Suqeim Street and other key roads. The plan aims to ensure Dubai’s road infrastructure can accommodate rising demand as the city grows in both population and economic activity.

Dubai’s RTA backs the city’s masterplan through long-term infrastructure that boosts mobility, sustainability, and urban design. Dubai’s approach blends innovation with wellbeing, paving the way for a more connected, livable city.

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Written by
Nidhi Singh Parihar

Hey there! I’m Nidhi, a web content writer with a knack for turning ideas into impactful words. With a B.Tech background and a passion for creativity, I switched gears from tech to text, crafting everything from SaaS copy to social media magic. Whether it’s blogs, product descriptions, or email campaigns, I love creating content that connects and converts. Let's create something amazing together!

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