The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in Dubai has launched a project to develop Al Safa Street, which extends from its intersection with Sheikh Zayed Road to Al Wasl Road, covering a length of 1,500 meters. The project includes the construction of two bridges and two tunnels, totaling 3,120 meters in length, as well as the development of surface roads and improvements to intersections and traffic signals. These enhancements aim to reduce travel time on Al Safa Street from 12 minutes to just 3 minutes and to increase the street’s capacity from 6,000 vehicles per hour to 12,000 vehicles per hour.
Details of the Al Safa Street Development Project
Matar Al Tayer, the Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors at the RTA, stated, “The Al Safa Street development project is part of the comprehensive plan announced by the authority to enhance the road network in the area, which also includes the development of Al Wasl and Umm Suqeim Streets.” He noted that the project serves a vibrant area filled with numerous tourist, artistic, and sports activities and includes important facilities such as City Walk and Coca-Cola Arena. Additionally, the project encompasses many commercial and residential areas, contributing to an improved quality of life for residents.
The New Bridges and Tunnels
Al Tayer explained that the Al Safa Street development project includes the construction of two bridges. The first will facilitate direct traffic flow from Al Wasl Road towards Sheikh Zayed Road and the financial center. This bridge will consist of four lanes and measure 1,005 meters in length, with a capacity of up to 6,400 vehicles per hour. The second bridge will accommodate vehicles coming from Al Satwa Street, featuring two lanes and a length of 360 meters. The project also includes the implementation of two tunnels to create smoother routes for traffic, enhancing connectivity between different parts of the city.
The Comprehensive Development Plan
Al Tayer indicated that the Al Safa Street development project is part of a broader plan to enhance the road network in the area. This plan also includes the development of Al Wasl Road, which spans 15 kilometers, and Umm Suqeim Street, which is 6 kilometers long. All these projects aim to reduce travel time and increase capacity in a manner that ensures smooth traffic flow in Dubai. For instance, the projects along Al Wasl Road are expected to reduce travel time by 50% while increasing capacity to 12,000 vehicles per hour.
The Al Safa Street development project contributes to enhancing sustainability and urban aesthetics by adding dedicated pathways for pedestrians and bicycles. The project also includes improvements to lighting systems and rainwater drainage, with a focus on raising traffic safety standards. This reflects the RTA’s commitment to providing an integrated urban environment that meets community needs and supports sustainable growth in the emirate.