RTA Opens 1,650-Metre Al Khaleej Street Tunnel to Enhance Traffic Flow

Dubai:The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has inaugurated the Al Khaleej Street Tunnel, a significant infrastructure project aimed at improving traffic flow in Dubai. The tunnel, measuring 1,650 metres, extends from the end of the Infinity Bridge ramp in Deira to the intersection of Al Khaleej Street and Al Wuheida Street. It features three lanes in each direction, with a total capacity of 12,000 vehicles per hour, as part of the broader Al Shindagha Corridor Development Project.

According to Emirates News Agency, the Director-General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of RTA, Mattar Al Tayer, emphasized the importance of the tunnel as an addition to Deira's road network. It is expected to provide seamless traffic movement for drivers traveling between Infinity Bridge, Deira, and Al Mamzar. The tunnel will also enhance connectivity between residential areas, commercial hubs, and tourist destinations, aligning with Dubai's urban development goals.

The Al Khaleej Street Tunnel is a key component of the Al Shindagha Corridor Development Project, which spans 13 km and is projected to serve around one million people across major developments, including Dubai Islands, Dubai Maritime City, and Port Rashid. Al Tayer highlighted that the completion of corridor improvements is anticipated to cut journey times significantly, from 1 hour 44 minutes to just 16 minutes by 2030.

The project marks a milestone with nearly 11 million work hours completed without any reported injuries. It involved the efforts of 2,200 engineers, technicians, and workers, supported by 350 pieces of equipment and machinery. Impressively, 77 percent of the 522,000 cubic metres of materials excavated during construction have been repurposed for other projects. The development also includes signal-controlled intersections on Cairo Street and Al Wuheida Street.

As part of the Dubai Tunnels initiative, the Al Khaleej Street Tunnel has been transformed into an artistic mural, reflecting the city's urban character. Designed by Emirati artist Maryam Al Hathboor, the artwork depicts Dubai's skyline in a style reminiscent of banknote illustrations, using 35 million mosaic pieces.

Additionally, RTA completed the Al Shindagha Corridor development works in Bur Dubai in 2025 and is constructing a 1,425-metre bridge connecting Dubai Islands with Bur Dubai. This bridge will have a capacity of 16,000 vehicles per hour and will include a pedestrian and cycling track, while accommodating vessels passing through Dubai Creek.