The Mid-Island Parkway Abu Dhabi project will slash the drive from Saadiyat Island to Reem Island and central Abu Dhabi from about 25 minutes to 10. The Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) says the Dh2.85 billion first phase, an eight-lane road linking Saadiyat to Umm Yifeenah Island, is due for completion in 2027, with a longer second phase planned.
Key takeaways
- Phase one of the Mid-Island Parkway costs Dh2.85 billion and is due for completion in 2027.
- It links Saadiyat Island’s northern E12 interchange with Umm Yifeenah Island.
- Journeys from Saadiyat to Reem Island or central Abu Dhabi will drop from 25 minutes to 10.
- Phase two will add a further 14.5 km towards Al Raha Beach and Khalifa City.
- Once complete, Saadiyat to Zayed City is expected to take under 15 minutes.
What is the Mid-Island Parkway?
The Mid-Island Parkway is a DMT road megaproject designed to connect Abu Dhabi’s island communities into one network. Phase one runs from the northern E12 interchange on Saadiyat Island to the central interchange on Umm Yifeenah Island, as an eight-lane dual carriageway.
According to Aletihad, the route includes about 2 km of reclaimed land and a 1.5 km underground section, 600 metres of which runs under the water at Khor Laffan.
Mid-Island Parkway phases and timeline
| Phase | Route | Key details |
|---|---|---|
| Phase one | Saadiyat Island (E12) to Umm Yifeenah Island | Dh2.85bn, eight lanes, due 2027 |
| Phase two | 14.5 km via Bilrimaid and Samaliyah islands towards Sas Al Nakhl, Al Raha Beach and Khalifa City | Four lanes each way, marine bridges, flyovers and an underwater tunnel |
A completion date for phase two has not been given in the reports.
How much time drivers will save
For residents and commuters, the headline benefit is time. When phase one opens, the trip from Saadiyat to Reem Island or Abu Dhabi Island is expected to fall from 25 minutes to around 10. Phase two adds a mid-island corridor of roughly seven minutes, and with the full parkway in place, driving from Saadiyat Island to Zayed City should take less than 15 minutes.
That could ease pressure on existing links to Saadiyat, which has become a busy destination thanks to its museums, beaches and growing residential communities.
Not just for cars
The project also caters for people on foot and on bikes. Phase one includes 4 km of walking and cycling tracks, and phase two will carry dedicated pedestrian and cycling paths too. Aletihad reports that the design uses energy-efficient lighting and drought-resistant irrigation, prioritises recycled and locally sourced materials, and aims to protect mangrove and wetland habitats along the route.
This is not the first island link in the capital; we previously reported on a new 11 km bridge connecting three islands. For more road and traffic news, see our automotive news.
Mid-Island Parkway Abu Dhabi: frequently asked questions
When will the Mid-Island Parkway open?
Phase one, linking Saadiyat Island to Umm Yifeenah Island, is scheduled for completion in 2027. No completion date has been given for phase two.
How much is the Mid-Island Parkway costing?
Phase one of the project is valued at Dh2.85 billion.
How much time will the Mid-Island Parkway save?
Journeys from Saadiyat Island to Reem Island or central Abu Dhabi are expected to fall from 25 minutes to 10 once phase one opens.
Which areas will the Mid-Island Parkway connect?
Phase one connects Saadiyat Island with Umm Yifeenah Island. Phase two extends 14.5 km through Bilrimaid and Samaliyah islands towards Sas Al Nakhl, Al Raha Beach and Khalifa City.
Will the Mid-Island Parkway have cycling tracks?
Yes. Phase one includes 4 km of walking and cycling tracks, and phase two will also have dedicated pedestrian and cycling paths.
Sources: Aletihad, What’s On, Abu Dhabi Department of Municipalities and Transport
