RTA Awards AED786 Million Contract for New Bridges Linking Dubai Islands to Bur Dubai
Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has taken a significant step toward enhancing the emirate’s infrastructure by awarding a contract for the construction of direct access bridges connecting Dubai Islands to Bur Dubai. Announced on April 08, 2025, this ambitious project aligns with Dubai’s vision to bolster its road network and mobility systems, supporting urban growth, improving traffic efficiency, and catering to the needs of its expanding population.
The AED786 million contract involves the development of a 1,425-meter-long bridge spanning Dubai Creek, featuring four lanes in each direction and a capacity to handle 16,000 vehicles per hour. This bridge, positioned between the Infinity Bridge and the Port Rashid Development area, will rise 18.5 meters above the creek’s surface and include a 75-meter-wide navigational channel to accommodate various vessels. The initiative is part of a broader collaboration between RTA and Dubai Holding, aimed at integrating key development zones with seamless transportation solutions.
Mattar Al Tayer, RTA’s Director-General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors, emphasized the project’s importance: “This bridge will provide a direct entry and exit for Dubai Islands from Bur Dubai, facilitating smoother movement for residents and visitors. It’s a critical component of our efforts to support Dubai’s ongoing development and address the demands of demographic and urban expansion.”
In addition to the vehicular lanes, the bridge will feature a dedicated pedestrian and cycling track equipped with elevators, ensuring accessibility and promoting sustainable mobility. The project also includes 2,000 meters of surface roads to connect the bridge with existing networks on both the Dubai Islands and Bur Dubai sides, enhancing overall connectivity.
A Continuation of Strategic Development
This contract marks the second phase of infrastructure improvements for Dubai Islands’ access points. In 2020, RTA and Dubai Holding completed a related project involving three bridges totaling 1.6 kilometers. These included a two-lane bridge linking Dubai Islands to Al Khaleej Street northward, a three-lane bridge southward to Al Khaleej Street, and another two-lane bridge facilitating traffic from Al Khaleej Street to Dubai Islands. Together, these efforts underscore RTA’s commitment to creating a robust transportation framework for the region.
The latest bridge project falls under the expansive Al Shindagha Corridor Development Project, one of RTA’s flagship initiatives. Spanning 13 kilometers and encompassing 15 intersections, this corridor is being developed in five phases to serve major areas like Deira, Bur Dubai, Dubai Maritime City, Deira Waterfront, Port Rashid, and Dubai Islands. Once completed, it is projected to serve approximately one million people, slashing travel times from 104 minutes to just 16 minutes—a transformation expected to save AED45 billion over two decades.
Driving Dubai’s Future
The new bridges are more than just infrastructure—they symbolize Dubai’s forward-thinking approach to urban planning. By improving traffic flow and integrating key development zones, the project supports the emirate’s economic growth and enhances the quality of life for its residents and visitors. As Dubai continues to evolve as a global hub, initiatives like these ensure that its transportation network keeps pace with its ambitious aspirations.
