Emirates Road: Travel time to cut by 45% from Dubai to Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah

Dubai: A major road expansion project will start soon to reduce travel time by 45 per cent for from Dubai to Sharjah and other northern emirates

The Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure announced a mega Dh750 million enhancement project for Emirates Road, a strategic federal highway that links Dubai with Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, and Ras Al Khaimah.

Scheduled to begin in September 2025 and run for two years, the Emirates Road Enhancement Project will expand the highway from three to five lanes in each direction over a critical 25-kilometer stretch between Al Badee Interchange in Sharjah and Umm Al Quwain.

The project will boost the Emirates Road’s capacity by 65% from 5,400 to 9,000 vehicles per hour in each direction targeting one of the most heavily congested segments of the UAE’s federal network.

Growing population need

Engineer Hassan Al Mansoori, Undersecretary for Infrastructure and Transport Affairs at the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, told Gulf News: “The Emirates Road Enhancement Project embodies our commitment to building world-class infrastructure that meets the evolving needs of our growing population and economy.”

He added: “By expanding capacity, improving connectivity, and reducing travel times, we are not only easing congestion but also strengthening the strategic role of the federal road network in driving sustainable development across the UAE.

“This project reflects our vision for a smarter, safer, and more resilient transport system, one that supports economic growth, facilitates trade, and enhances the overall quality of life for our citizens and residents.”

Travel time cut by nearly half

In addition to widening the roadway, the upgrade includes the construction of six new directional bridges at Interchange No. 7, totalling 12.6 kilometres in length and capable of handling 13,200 vehicles per hour. The plan also features 3.4 kilometres of new collector roads on both sides of Emirates Road, designed to streamline access and improve traffic distribution.

Once complete, the project is expected to reduce travel times by up to 45% for commuters travelling between Ras Al Khaimah, Umm Al Quwain, Sharjah, and Dubai, easing the daily burden for thousands of motorists and improving overall mobility between the emirates.

Vital artery

Emirates Road (E611), earlier known as Bypass Road, was developed as a high-speed alternative to Mohammed bin Zayed Road (E311), and Sheikh Zayed Road (E11).

It was designed to divert heavy traffic away from urban centres and serve long-haul motorists, cargo transport, and intercity travellers.

Running 94 kilometres from Dubai through Sharjah, Ajman, and Umm Al Quwain to Ras Al Khaimah, it plays a pivotal role in connecting the northern emirates with the rest of the country.

Over the years, the road has evolved into a critical freight and commuter corridor. Its strategic importance has grown in line with the UAE’s rapid urban expansion, population growth, and booming logistics sector.

Key features

Widening from 3 to 5 lanes in each direction over 25km (Al Badee Interchange Sharjah to Umm Al Quwain)

Six new directional bridges at Interchange No. 7, totalling 12.6km

Collector roads on both sides of Emirates Road, stretching 3.4km

Enhanced traffic capacity of 13,200 vehicles/hour at the upgraded interchange