Dubai launches quick fixes in 8 key areas to reduce traffic, cut travel time

Dubai is introducing quick fixes to reduce traffic and shorten journey times by up to 30 per cent in eight key locations across the emirate. This is part of a comprehensive 2026 plan by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) involving more than 45 traffic enhancements.

The rapid traffic improvement solutions include widening certain streets from one lane to two lanes, converting roundabouts into signalised intersections, building new road links between main roads and residential and commercial districts, and implementing at-grade upgrades. The works also include adding parking spaces at schools and key facilities, and introducing additional traffic safety measures.

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The upgrades are being carried out at the following locations:

• Emirates Road from Sharjah towards Wadi Al Amardi Street

• Umm Amara Street from Sheikh Zayed Road towards Al Wasl Street

• Jebel Ali–Lehbab Street

• The area between Sama Al Jaddaf and Al Jaddaf Waterfront near Al Jaddaf Metro Station

• Al Na'ayat Street in Al Barsha 1

• Near Al Maktoum School in Al Satwa

• The intersection of Al Ittihad Street and Al Quds Street

• Sheikh Rashid Street near Grand Hyatt Dubai towards Bur Dubai

These measures are expected to deliver measurable improvements by reducing congestion levels and shortening journey times by 15 to 30 per cent.

Data driven selection

According to the RTA, these sites were selected after traffic studies and real-time monitoring identified congestion hotspots and bottlenecks. The authority explained that road upgrades are based on three main criteria: continuous monitoring, detailed traffic studies and data analysis.

Traffic control centres monitor roads in real time to detect bottlenecks, while field inspection teams assess on-the-ground conditions and recommend solutions. The RTA pointed out that the integrated methodology ensures tangible improvements in traffic flow and helps reduce congestion during peak hours.

Last year, the RTA implemented 67 similar quick traffic solutions across the emirate, reducing travel times by up to 45 per cent in some areas. Twelve of those improvements were carried out around zones serving more than 30 schools.

The latest measures come as Dubai continues to experience sustained urban growth and rising vehicle density, increasing pressure on major road corridors.

Last week, the authority also awarded the contract for the second phase of the Hessa Street development between Al Khail Road and Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road — a project that is expected to cut travel time from 24 minutes to just five minutes.

• Dubai

Written by

Nasreen Abdulla

Nasreen Abdulla is a Special Correspondent covering food, tech and human interest stories. When not challenged by deadlines, you’ll find her pulling off submissions on the jiu jitsu mats.