Sharjah Accelerates Dh750 Million Road Overhaul to Enhance Direct Links with Dubai by November 2026
Sharjah is advancing one of its most significant transport initiatives, a Dh750 million project aimed at constructing and upgrading road corridors that will establish direct connections with Dubai. The initial opening of this ambitious project is scheduled for November 2026.
Project Overview and Leadership
The initiative has been commissioned by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah. This project is part of a broader strategy to enhance the emirate’s road infrastructure and improve traffic flow across various districts. The implementation is being led by Mubadara (the Authority for Initiatives Implementation) in collaboration with the Sharjah Roads and Transport Authority (SRTA). They are working closely with several entities, including the Sharjah Department of Town Planning and Survey, Sharjah Police General Command, Sharjah City Municipality, Sharjah Electricity, Water and Gas Authority (SEWA), e& (Etisalat), and du.
Key Features of the Project
The project focuses on two main axes: the comprehensive upgrade of the Al Taawun corridor extending to Al Nahda Bridge and into Dubai, and the development of Al Khan Street leading to Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road. These upgrades aim to connect the historic areas of the Lakes and Al Taawun districts with the newer urban corridor along Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road while enhancing six crossing points in Dubai.
The scheme comprises five components being constructed simultaneously. A soft opening of the entire project is anticipated for November 2026, employing precast concrete techniques to adhere to the timeline. Traffic diversions, coordinated with Sharjah Police, have already been implemented and will integrate into the broader road improvement efforts.
Central Infrastructure Developments
The centerpiece of this initiative is a 500-meter tunnel beneath Al Taawun Roundabout, designed to accommodate three lanes in each direction from Al Taawun Street towards Al Nahda Bridge and Dubai. A new signalized junction will be established alongside it, capable of handling approximately 4,200 vehicles per direction during peak hours.
This tunnel will not only facilitate traffic but also provide a direct, uninterrupted route to Expo Centre Sharjah. It is envisioned as the first segment of a larger network that will eventually connect to Noor Road, an extension of Al Orooba Street leading to the late Sheikh Khalid bin Sultan Al Qasimi Mosque and the Heart of Sharjah.
Intersection and Bridge Upgrades
The second component involves enhancements to the Al Khulafa-Al Rashideen Intersection. This will include the addition of box culverts beneath the existing bridge and two additional lanes in each direction, covering a 37-meter stretch per direction. A 315-meter slip bridge will offer a swift, direct link to Gamal Abdel Nasser Street, along with a new free-flow entry from Al Ittihad Road to Al Khan Street. The design prioritizes visibility for shopfronts on either side of the road, with the upgrade expected to increase capacity for around 2,600 vehicles per hour across both directions.
Two new 130-meter bridges are also being constructed across Industrial Street 1 and Industrial Street 2, each featuring two lanes per direction and supported by approach ramps totaling approximately 200 meters on both sides. Free-flow turns will facilitate traffic movement from Dubai towards Maleha Road, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Road, and Al Waset Road, with peak-hour capacity projected at around 2,800 vehicles per direction.
The fourth component introduces new bridges at Industrial Street 3, linking industrial areas with the Ring Road and connecting Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road back through Al Khan Street to Al Ittihad Road. This includes two new bridges and turning lanes towards Maleha Road, Sheikh Khalifa Road, and Al Dhaid Road, with a combined route length of approximately 2.7 kilometers. A culvert will connect Industrial Street 3 to the Ring Road, with total capacity expected to reach around 5,200 vehicles per hour.
The fifth component focuses on upgrading the existing interchange on Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road to enhance overall efficiency and provide quicker access between the highway and the Al Taawun, Al Khan, and Al Buhaira areas, thereby alleviating pressure on Al Ittihad Road and key junctions.
Expected Benefits and Future Impact
Upon completion, the network will consist of five bridges, one main tunnel, and a series of free-flow intersections, directly linking Al Taawun, Al Khan, and Al Buhaira to both local roads and federal highways. Daily commuters between Sharjah and Dubai, especially those passing through the densely populated Al Majaz and Al Nahda districts, can anticipate fewer stops and reduced journey times.
The project will also enhance access for visitors to the Expo Centre Sharjah and the Sharjah International Book Fair, while improving connectivity to the late Sheikh Khalid bin Sultan Al Qasimi Mosque in the Mamzar area. The overall road network will be better equipped to accommodate the emirate’s ongoing population and urban growth.
As reported by www.emirates247.com.
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Published on 2026-06-17 21:42:00 • By FAME Delivered News Desk