UAE Reveals Plans for Dh6 Billion Motorway to Ease Congestion

The UAE has announced a Dh6 billion ($1.63 billion) transport plan to construct a fourth national motorway. The project aims to reduce traffic congestion and enhance connectivity across the country.

Known as the Fourth Federal Corridor, the development will feature a 68-kilometer road with 10 junctions, six to eight lanes, and four flyovers. Originally unveiled in November, the motorway seeks to address growing transportation demands.

Suhail Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, emphasized the importance of advancing infrastructure and transport networks to support national progress. During a meeting of the UAE Infrastructure and Housing Council, he discussed the country's broader initiatives to improve traffic flow between Dubai, Sharjah, and Ajman.

“Developing the infrastructure system is a fundamental pillar of the UAE’s comprehensive development journey and a key driver of the country’s competitiveness,” Al Mazrouei said. “The next phase requires accelerating high-impact projects that boost transport system efficiency and promote smart, sustainable mobility in line with population growth and urban expansion.”

Road Construction and Expansion Plans

Officials have yet to confirm when the Fourth Federal Corridor's construction will commence or clarify which of the seven emirates it will serve. Upon completion, the motorway will join the UAE's existing major inter-emirate routes: Sheikh Zayed Road and Al Ittihad Road (E11), Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Road (E311), and Emirates Road (E611).

These vital highways link the nation’s cities, connecting key business districts, residential areas, and tourist destinations. For instance, Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Road stretches from Abu Dhabi to Ras Al Khaimah, passing Expo City Dubai and Al Maktoum International Airport. Emirates Road provides an alternative inland route between the Northern Emirates and Abu Dhabi, bypassing central Dubai, though it now faces heavy congestion during peak hours.

In November, the UAE revealed plans to build the fourth motorway and invest Dh170 billion in upgrading existing roads over five years. Among these enhancements are an expansion of Al Ittihad Road to six lanes—three in each direction—boosting capacity by 60 percent. Emirates Road will be widened to 10 lanes, increasing capacity by 65 percent and reducing travel time by 45 percent. Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Road will also expand to 10 lanes, improving capacity by 45 percent.

The introduction of a new federal motorway aligns with efforts to accommodate the country’s surging population and the growing number of registered vehicles. Road infrastructure upgrades support efficient mobility, ensuring the UAE's transport system keeps pace with its rapid urban development.