Drivers in Dubai should prepare for significant changes in traffic this week as multiple road closures have been announced across the city. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) confirmed that these temporary closures will affect several key areas, with the aim of improving infrastructure and ensuring safety during major public events.
The closures, which started over the weekend, are expected to continue throughout the week and possibly extend further, depending on the progress of ongoing construction and event-related arrangements.
Which Roads Are Closed?
The RTA announced closures on several main roads, including:
- Al Khail Road (E44): Partial closures near Business Bay exit ramps from April 5 to April 10 between 12:00 AM and 5:00 AM.
- Sheikh Zayed Road (E11): Temporary closures between Interchange 2 and Interchange 3 on the evenings of April 6 and April 7, from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
- Financial Center Road: Full closure on April 8 from 3:00 PM until midnight due to a major sporting event in Downtown Dubai.
- Jumeirah Road: Sections near Kite Beach will be closed from April 5–9 for a beach festival.
- Dubai Marina Area: Roads around Marina Walk and JBR will have partial closures and restricted access due to ongoing construction.
Motorists are advised to use alternate routes like Al Asayel Road, Umm Suqeim Road, and Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road where possible.
Why Are These Roads Closed?
There are several reasons behind the closures:
- Road Maintenance and Upgrades: Dubai is continuously upgrading its road infrastructure to handle growing traffic. Some closures are part of routine maintenance, while others are due to expansion work.
- Upcoming Public Events: Dubai is hosting multiple international events, including marathons, cultural festivals, and concerts. These events require temporary road closures to ensure public safety and smooth traffic management.
- Construction Projects: New real estate developments and metro line extensions are also contributing to temporary disruptions in certain zones.
An RTA spokesperson said, “We are committed to improving the road experience in Dubai. While these closures may cause temporary inconvenience, they are necessary for the long-term benefit of commuters and residents.”
How Will This Affect You?
If you drive in or through Dubai, here’s what you need to keep in mind:
- Longer Commute Times: Expect delays during peak hours, especially near Downtown Dubai, Jumeirah, and Business Bay.
- Limited Parking: In areas like Dubai Marina and JBR, access to public and private parking may be restricted.
- Public Transport Adjustments: Bus routes in affected areas will be diverted. Some metro station entrances near closed roads may have rerouted access paths.
- Increased Demand for Taxis and Ride-Sharing: With more people avoiding driving, ride-hailing services may be harder to book during rush hours.
What Is RTA Doing to Help?
To help reduce the inconvenience, the RTA is putting several measures in place:
- Traffic Diversions and Signboards: Clear signboards will be installed to guide drivers along alternative routes.
- Real-Time Traffic Updates: Drivers can check the Dubai Drive app, RTA’s social media channels, and Google Maps for live updates on closures and traffic conditions.
- Additional Public Transport Services: Extra buses and extended metro hours are expected in the busiest areas to accommodate increased demand.
The RTA also urged drivers to plan their trips ahead, avoid closed areas when possible, and use public transport whenever they can.
Public Reaction and Concerns
The road closures have sparked mixed reactions from residents. While some understand the need for development, others are frustrated by the timing and lack of advance notice.
“I was stuck on Al Khail Road for almost 40 minutes this morning because of a detour that wasn’t even announced properly,” said Zainab Ali, a Dubai resident who commutes daily from Al Barsha to Business Bay. “I really hope they put more signs or announce things earlier.”
Others, however, support the move.
“I think it’s good they’re upgrading the roads. Yes, it’s annoying now, but in the end, it’ll help reduce traffic in the future,” said Karim, an Uber driver who frequently travels through Sheikh Zayed Road.
Expert Advice for Drivers
Traffic experts recommend the following tips to avoid stress during this period:
- Leave Earlier Than Usual: Give yourself an extra 20–30 minutes for your commute.
- Stay Updated: Follow official RTA pages or traffic apps for real-time updates.
- Use Metro or Bus Services: If your destination is near a metro station, consider using public transport to avoid delays.
- Drive Carefully: With new detours and confusing signs, it’s important to stay alert and avoid speeding.
What’s Next?
Some of the closures are expected to lift by the end of the week, especially those tied to weekend events. However, certain areas under construction may continue to have restrictions for several weeks or even months.
The RTA has not yet provided an exact timeline for when all roads will reopen but promised to keep the public informed.
“We understand this can disrupt daily life, but we ask for everyone’s cooperation,” said the RTA spokesperson. “We will continue to communicate all changes clearly and in a timely manner.”
Final Words
If you’re driving in Dubai this week, pay extra attention to road signs, check your GPS regularly, and plan your journey well in advance. With a little patience and flexibility, you can still get to your destination safely and on time.
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