Quickened Commute in Dubai: Umm Suqeim Project Slashes Travel Duration from 20 to 6 Minutes
Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) announced on Saturday the design for a significant upgrade of Umm Suqeim Street, aimed at increasing its capacity to accommodate 16,000 vehicles per hour and reducing travel time between Jumeirah Street and Al Khail Road from 20 minutes to six.
This ambitious project is part of the broader master plan for the development of Jumeirah, Al Safa, and Al Wasl streets. The upgrade of Umm Suqeim Street, from its intersection with Jumeirah Street to Al Khail Road, is poised to improve connectivity across four strategic transport corridors in Dubai—Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Khail Road, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, and Emirates Road.
Mattar Al Tayer, RTA Director-General and Chairman of the board of executive directors, emphasized the project's significance, stating that the upgraded corridor will serve vital residential and development areas, including Jumeirah, Umm Suqeim, Al Manara, Al Sufouh, Umm Al Sheif, Al Barsha, and Al Quoz, home to a population of over two million people.
The road project will feature pedestrian walkways, dedicated cycling tracks, boulevards, and vibrant urban spaces, enhancing the overall urban experience and promoting sustainable transport solutions.
Key intersections along Umm Suqeim Street will be upgraded, including those connected with Jumeirah Street, Al Wasl Street, Sheikh Zayed Road, First Al Khail Street, Al Asayel Street, and Al Khail Road. A total of four bridges and three tunnels will be built, with a combined length of 4,100 metres.
At the intersection with Jumeirah Street, a tunnel with two lanes in each direction will be constructed, accompanied by a signalised surface-level junction. A second tunnel, comprising two lanes, will be constructed at the intersection with Al Wasl Street to facilitate traffic flow from Sheikh Zayed Road towards Jumeirah Street, while maintaining uninterrupted surface traffic in the direction of Sheikh Zayed Road.
The project is in its advance stages, with approximately 70% of the work completed as of late May 2025, paving the way for the project's operational readiness.
While the project will have significant transportation and traffic benefits, it also aims to provide a more aesthetically pleasing urban environment by incorporating attractive landscaping and street designs. These efforts contribute to the creation of inclusive and vibrant urban spaces that encourage community interaction.
Al Tayer explained that the project is a crucial step towards sustainable urban growth in Dubai, underlining RTA's commitment to enhancing the quality of life for residents and visitors by improving transport infrastructure and reducing travel times.
Relevant Enrichment Data:
- This 20-kilometre corridor upgrade forms part of a broader approach to efficient urban development, encompassing plans for marine transport stations, bus, and taxi lanes to cut travel time by 41%.
- The project's emphasis on creating pedestrian-friendly environments and green spaces also addresses the needs of senior populations, many of whom may find walking and cycling advantageous for maintaining mobility and well-being.
- A new direct link will be established connecting the Mall of the Emirates Metro Station to nearby residential communities, fostering seamless connectivity and enhancing last-mile transit access for commuters.
- The upgrade of Umm Suqeim Street, as part of Dubai's broader urban development plan, includes a focus on sustainable transport solutions, such as pedestrian walkways, cycling tracks, and green spaces, which cater to the needs of senior populations and promote healthier lifestyles.
- The project, aimed at reducing travel time and improving connectivity across Dubai's strategic transport corridors, also has significant financial implications for the industry and business sectors, as efficient transportation systems can positively impact the city's attractiveness and competitiveness.
- Beyond traffic and transportation benefits, the project also integrates news and media elements, with the inclusion of vibrant urban spaces and attractive landscaping that enriches the overall urban experience, contributing to a more pleasant and lively business environment.
