Residents of Al Riffa area in Ras Al Khaimah have raised concerns over the ongoing road upgrade and expansion works, citing the lack of sufficient alternative routes to compensate for the affected main roads.

According to residents, the impacted roads serve as vital links connecting them to workplaces and key service areas across the emirate, making the current diversions a significant daily challenge.

While acknowledging the importance of the government’s infrastructure development plans, residents emphasized that the prolonged disruption is affecting their daily routines. Nearly six months after the launch of the projects, several sections reportedly remain in early stages of completion. Many commuters say they are experiencing delays in reaching work, while business owners along the construction corridors report a sharp decline in customer traffic. Families have also expressed concerns about persistent traffic congestion, noise, and potential safety risks for children in residential streets.

Mohammed Abdullah Al Zaabi noted that numerous commercial establishments—including restaurants, a tyre repair shop, and a school supplies bookstore—have been negatively impacted due to limited accessibility. With projections suggesting that the project could extend for up to two years, business owners fear prolonged financial strain unless additional effective alternative routes are introduced. Shop operators confirmed that sales have dropped by nearly half, while rental costs remain unchanged, intensifying economic pressure.

Residents have proposed coordinated awareness campaigns through social media platforms in collaboration with municipal authorities and Ras Al Khaimah Police to reinforce safe driving practices and adherence to speed limits within residential zones. They also called for clearer directional signage guiding motorists to alternative main roads and suggested enhanced coordination between government entities and private companies to allow flexible working hours for residents, particularly with Ramadan approaching, when peak traffic periods typically overlap with work dismissal times.

In response, the Ras Al Khaimah Public Works Department reaffirmed its commitment to providing suitable alternatives for Al Riffa residents. The authority clarified that the ongoing works include road completion, stormwater drainage systems, and street lighting improvements in densely populated areas. It stressed that all projects are proceeding according to approved timelines, with the objective of delivering long-term infrastructure enhancements while supporting the community through the current transitional phase.