On September 18, 2026, Dubai reaffirmed its commitment to future growth and development with the announcement of a significant new infrastructure project. His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Defence, approved the construction of a new highway corridor that will extend approximately 80 kilometres. This new route will serve as an essential link between Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah, addressing current traffic demands while preparing for the city’s expansion.
Strategic Development for the Future
The new route will connect Al Shnuf Street in Sharjah to Al Fayha Street in Abu Dhabi, passing through Dubai. It aims to establish an efficient transportation network, complementing three existing main highways that link the Emirates. By optimising vehicle flow, this project is anticipated to enhance connectivity across the region, improving the movement of people and goods while bolstering economic growth.
Project Details and Financial Commitment
The initial phase of the highway project, with an investment of approximately 3.5 billion dirhams, will encompass 30 kilometres from Al Shnuf Street to the Dubai-Al Ain Road. The subsequent phase will add another 50 kilometres, extending to Al Fayha Street in Abu Dhabi. Designed with 12 lanes in each direction, this corridor is expected to accommodate 24,000 vehicles per hour, significantly reducing travel time from 50 minutes to just 24 minutes. These improvements reflect a broader philosophy, where every minute saved translates into substantial economic value for residents and visitors alike.
A Vision for Quality of Life
His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed encapsulated the essence of the project by highlighting Dubai’s unwavering commitment to developing world-class infrastructure, guided by the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. He stated that such infrastructure serves as the foundation for growth, a catalyst for development, and a pillar for quality of life. The overarching aim is to ensure that Dubai is consistently prepared for future opportunities while proactively addressing its emerging needs.
Contributing to Sustainable Development
The fourth corridor exemplifies a practical approach to sustainable development, emphasising the crucial role of mobility in a thriving city. It aims to facilitate ease of movement for residents, enabling them to save time during their daily commutes. In Dubai, the journey feels longer than the distance travelled because the roads represent more than mere routes; they create spaces for life, work, and investment. Stretching nearly 80 kilometres, this new highway is fundamentally about reaching further—into a future poised for growth and innovation, aligning with Dubai’s vision of anticipating and reaching its goals ahead of time.