Dubai's RTA has launched an efficient new tunnel as part of its street development project aimed at greatly improving travel times.

Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) recently inaugurated an 800-meter tunnel featuring four lanes in each direction, part of the extensive Umm Suqeim Street Development Project. This infrastructure initiative is set to serve residential and developmental areas boasting a population of over one million.

Stretching from Al Khail Road intersection to Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road intersection, the project aims to significantly reduce travel time on Umm Suqeim Street from 9.7 minutes to just 3.8 minutes-a reduction of nearly 61%. The upgraded road can now accommodate up to 16,000 vehicles per hour in both directions.

Key RTA Project

Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors at RTA, remarked that "the project enhances connectivity between four strategic corridors in Dubai: Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Khail Road, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, and Emirates Road." He emphasized how this development boosts Umm Suqeim Street’s capacity while cutting travel times considerably between major roads.

The project notably serves several communities such as Al Barsha South 1, 2, and 3, Dubai Hills, Arjan, and Dubai Science Park. Collectively these areas are home to a significant portion of Dubai's population.

RTA's Use of Advanced Technology

In executing this project, RTA implemented cutting-edge technology for monitoring purposes. Drones played a pivotal role in analyzing construction data via artificial intelligence tools. This approach not only improved operational efficiency but also expedited decision-making by offering real-time accurate information.

This smart technological integration reduced field survey durations by 60%, with time-lapse imaging enhancing monitoring efficiency by up to 40%.