The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) of Dubai has unveiled a comprehensive new road network aimed at enhancing accessibility to Expo City Dubai and the expanding district of Dubai South. As one of the UAE’s most ambitious infrastructure projects, this new network is strategically designed to streamline traffic flow, improve connectivity, and support upcoming mega-developments, including logistics hubs, residential communities, and commercial zones.
Key Highlights of the New Road Network
Wider Roads and Increased Capacity
To accommodate growing traffic volumes, the RTA’s project includes the construction and expansion of:
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Main arterial roads totaling over 17 kilometers
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Four key intersections
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Two major flyovers
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Additional service roads and ramps
This will significantly increase road capacity, particularly for commuters and logistics operators moving between Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, Emirates Road, and Expo Road.
Strategic Intersections and Flyovers
The network includes state-of-the-art intersections and two flyovers, each engineered to eliminate bottlenecks at high-traffic junctions:
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Intersection at Emirates Road and Expo Road: A multi-level flyover designed to enable free-flowing traffic between Jebel Ali, Dubai Investment Park (DIP), and Al Maktoum International Airport.
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Flyover at Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road: Linking Expo Road to Dubai South, allowing smoother access to Expo City Dubai and easing pressure on adjacent junctions.
These developments are not only critical for day-to-day commutes but also for freight transportation, especially given Dubai South’s growing role as a logistics and cargo hub.
Supporting Expo City Dubai: A Future-Ready Urban Hub
Integration with Urban Development
Expo City Dubai is being positioned as a smart, sustainable city of the future, repurposing the legacy of Expo 2020 into a fully operational urban innovation district. The new RTA road network directly supports:
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Residential developments within Expo City
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Green mobility zones
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Sustainable commercial and tech parks
The connectivity improvements will make it easier for residents, tourists, and investors to move in and out of the city efficiently, increasing its attractiveness as a business and lifestyle destination.
Ease of Access for Events and Tourism
With Expo City Dubai expected to host global conferences, exhibitions, and entertainment events, the RTA’s new road system ensures seamless visitor access from all major points of entry, including:
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Al Maktoum International Airport
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Etihad Rail Stations
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Dubai Metro (Future expansions)
Boosting Dubai South: The Emerging Economic Powerhouse
Enhancing Cargo and Logistics Efficiency
The road network will directly benefit the cargo and logistics sectors, especially operators in:
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Dubai South’s Logistics District
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Jebel Ali Port
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DWC (Al Maktoum Airport) Freight Terminals
The streamlined road connections are expected to reduce transportation time for goods by over 30%, improving supply chain efficiency and making Dubai more competitive as a global logistics hub.
Infrastructure That Supports Growth
Dubai South is envisioned to accommodate over 1 million residents and serve as a hub for aviation, logistics, and e-commerce. The RTA’s road expansion will be crucial in:
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Supporting residential community growth
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Enabling commute efficiency
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Preparing for future public transport integration
Environmental and Technological Enhancements
Smart Traffic Management Systems
The project incorporates intelligent transportation systems (ITS) such as:
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Real-time traffic monitoring
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Adaptive traffic signals
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Integrated emergency response systems
These features will ensure the new roads are not just expansive, but also smart, providing better safety and faster commute times.
Sustainable Construction and Materials
As part of the UAE’s commitment to sustainability, the project includes:
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Low-emission asphalt materials
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Energy-efficient lighting systems
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Eco-friendly construction practices
This aligns with Dubai’s broader 2050 Environmental Sustainability Goals, reducing the carbon footprint of urban transport infrastructure.
Timeline and Project Scope
Phased Implementation Strategy
The RTA has divided the road network rollout into multiple phases, with expected completion timelines between 2025 and 2027. The current phase under execution includes:
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Road widening of Emirates Road to six lanes in each direction
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Construction of 5 km of service roads
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Completion of two interchanges
Future phases will focus on last-mile connectivity, including links to future Dubai Metro expansions and Etihad Rail stations.
Investment and Public-Private Partnerships
The project is backed by a multi-billion dirham investment from both government and private developers, reinforcing the importance of this corridor to Dubai’s economic strategy. Notable stakeholders include:
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Dubai South Authority
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Expo City Management
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Private real estate and logistics developers
Impact on Real Estate and Investment
Increased Property Values in Adjacent Areas
Communities such as:
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The Pulse Villas
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MAG 5 Boulevard
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Emaar South
are already witnessing rising property demand due to improved access, making this corridor a prime investment zone for both residential and commercial property buyers.
Enhanced Business Confidence
Better accessibility means more confidence for businesses, investors, and multinational corporations to relocate their regional offices or logistics hubs to Dubai South or Expo City.
Conclusion: Paving the Way for Dubai’s Future
The RTA’s announcement of a new road network serving Expo City and Dubai South is more than just a transportation project—it’s a strategic enabler of growth, innovation, and connectivity. With world-class infrastructure, cutting-edge technology, and a focus on sustainable development, this initiative positions Dubai as a global leader in urban planning and mobility.
