Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has awarded a contract to expand and modernize the access bridge leading to Terminal 1 at Dubai International Airport (DXB). The project is designed to ease congestion, increase vehicle capacity, and deliver a smoother travel experience for residents and visitors.
Tackling traffic pressure at DXB
Dubai International Airport remains one of the busiest airports in the world, with passenger numbers crossing 92 million last year. The rise in traffic has placed added pressure on surrounding roads, particularly the bridges and junctions leading directly to the terminals. Terminal 1, a vital entry point for millions of passengers, is no exception.
Currently, the bridge leading into the terminal accommodates around 4,200 vehicles per hour. During peak times, this limited capacity often creates bottlenecks and delays, impacting both passengers heading for flights and residents travelling through Airport Street.
What the expansion will bring
The new project will widen the bridge from three to four lanes, increasing its capacity to handle up to 5,600 vehicles per hour—a 33% improvement. Beyond simply adding an extra lane, the RTA is introducing an advanced construction system that allows the work to be carried out without interrupting current traffic flow.
The upgraded bridge will extend 171 metres, with its main span measuring close to 70 metres. A steel box girder and concrete deck will ensure lasting strength to handle heavy daily traffic.
Enhancing safety and connectivity
Alongside widening works, the project includes resurfacing pavements, upgrading infrastructure utilities, improving landscaping, and installing modern street lighting. The upgrades aim to boost road safety and refresh the airport’s surroundings.
The bridge expansion is part of a wider series of improvements on Airport Street, where the RTA has previously completed major works such as new tunnels, bridges, and signal-free access points to Terminals 1 and 3. Together, these initiatives significantly reduce delays and streamline traffic flows into and out of DXB.
Supporting Dubai’s growth vision
Officials have highlighted that the project underlines Dubai’s long-term commitment to strengthening its infrastructure. With passenger numbers forecasted to rise steadily in the years ahead, the bridge expansion supports the city’s role as a global hub for trade, tourism, and logistics.
By proactively addressing traffic pressures, the RTA ensures that Dubai International Airport remains accessible and convenient for millions of passengers each year. It also supports the emirate’s reputation for efficiency, reliability, and forward-looking urban planning.
Benefits for commuters and businesses
- Commuters will experience smoother journeys to and from the airport, especially during peak travel seasons.
- Airport staff and transport providers will benefit from reduced travel times and improved scheduling reliability.
- Businesses and logistics operators gain from enhanced connectivity to one of the busiest transport hubs in the world, supporting growth and punctuality in operations.
With the Terminal 1 bridge expansion, the RTA is addressing one of Dubai’s most critical traffic points. The project will not only ease congestion but also raise safety standards, improve road quality, and support Dubai’s long-term mobility goals. For residents, visitors, and businesses alike, this initiative ensures Dubai International Airport continues to offer world-class accessibility and efficiency.
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