Sharjah RTA apologises for traffic gridlock caused by Etihad Rail works

Transport authority promises smoother flow as new measures take effect next week

Last updated: September 04, 2025 | 16:09

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Sharjah’s Roads and Transport Authority (Sharjah RTA) has apologised to residents caught in heavy traffic near the University City, caused by ongoing construction on the Etihad Rail station.

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Speaking to the TV show ‘Al Khat Al Mubasher' (the direct line) Eng. Youssef Khamis Al Athmani, Chairman of Sharjah RTA, acknowledged the disruption and confirmed immediate steps to ease congestion. These include the addition of a third lane in the diversion and an agreement with the contractor to halt works during school hours.

Al Athmani assured that traffic conditions will improve starting Monday, stressing the project’s long-term importance for the emirate’s connectivity while pledging to balance development with smoother daily commutes.

Khitam Al Amir

With over 30 years of journalistic experience spanning from Jordan to the UAE, Khitam has spent the past 22 years reporting on national and regional news from Dubai, with a strong focus on the UAE, GCC and broader Arab affairs. As Chief News Editor, she brings extensive expertise in delivering breaking and engaging news to readers. Beginning her tenure as a translator, she advanced through roles as Senior Translator and Chief Translator before transitioning to editorial positions, culminating in her current leadership role. Her responsibilities encompass monitoring breaking news across the UAE and the broader Arab region, ensuring timely and accurate dissemination to the public. Born into a family of journalists, Khitam's passion for news was ignited early in life. A defining moment in her youth occurred in September 1985 when she had the opportunity to converse with the late British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher during her visit to a Palestinian refugee camp north of Amman. During this encounter, Khitam shared her family's experiences of displacement from their home in Palestine and their subsequent refuge in Jordan. This poignant interaction not only deepened her understanding of geopolitical issues but also solidified her commitment to pursuing a career in journalism, aiming to shed light on the stories of those affected by regional conflicts. Khitam’s commitment to accurate and timely reporting drives her to seek out news that interests readers, making her a trusted source for news on the UAE and the broader Gulf region.

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