Major traffic upgrade at Dubai Healthcare City to cut delays by 50%

Dubai: In a major step toward easing congestion in one of Dubai’s busiest healthcare and commercial hubs, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) announced it is finalising key traffic improvements at the Dubai Healthcare City exit to Sheikh Zayed Road.

The upgrades are on track for completion by July 20,2025 and are expected to significantly enhance traffic flow in the area, RTA said in a statement on Thursday.

Easing traffic flow

The project focuses on transforming the existing stop-controlled exit (Street 13) into a free-flow corridor, featuring a new acceleration lane that connects directly to the intersection of Oud Metha and Sheikh Rashid Road. Additionally, the adjacent service road is being widened from one lane to two across a 500-metre stretch, improving capacity for vehicles coming from Al Riyadh Street.

Double capacity

According to RTA, the upgraded exit will double current capacity to 3,000 vehicles per hour, resulting in a 50% reduction in congestion and wait times — particularly during peak traffic hours. These improvements are expected to deliver a smoother and safer driving experience, while supporting the seamless movement of residents, patients, healthcare workers, and students in Dubai Healthcare City and nearby Oud Metha.

“This project is part of RTA’s broader efforts to boost traffic capacity, enhance road safety, and improve journey times across key corridors in Dubai,” the Authority said in a statement. “Dubai Healthcare City is a critical urban zone with a unique mix of hospitals, clinics, academic institutions, residences, and offices. Efficient road access is vital to its function and growth.”

The current initiative builds on previous RTA enhancements in the area, including improved entry and exit points between Umm Hurair and Oud Metha. Past works added acceleration and deceleration lanes and expanded the service road from two to three lanes, achieving a 40% drop in congestion during peak periods.