Dubai’s Al-Qudra Street Development: A Major Step in Infrastructure Expansion
Dubai’s Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) has awarded a significant construction contract worth AED 798 million ($217 million) to local firm Wade Adams for the development of Al-Qudra Street. This ambitious project aims to enhance the city’s road network, improving connectivity and reducing travel time for thousands of residents and visitors.
Key Highlights of the Al-Qudra Street Project
The project involves expanding the existing Al-Qudra Street by 11.6 kilometers and constructing new bridges spanning 2.7 kilometers. The upgraded road will extend from the intersection of Al-Qudra Street with Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road to Sheikh Zayed Bin Hamdan Al-Nahyan Street and Emirates Road.
Once completed, the development is expected to significantly decrease travel time along this route, cutting it from 9.4 minutes to just 2.8 minutes. With this improvement, the project will cater to growing residential and commercial developments in the area, benefiting approximately 400,000 people.
Part of a Larger Development Vision
This initiative is a key component of Dubai’s broader AED 16 billion ($4.3 billion) 2024-27 Main Roads Development Plan. The comprehensive plan includes 22 major projects designed to optimize Dubai’s road infrastructure and improve transportation efficiency for over six million people.
In October 2023, Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al-Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, reviewed the city’s infrastructure strategy, which prioritizes easing traffic congestion and enhancing mobility across key locations.
Addressing Dubai’s Rapid Population Growth
Dubai’s rapid urban expansion necessitates continuous infrastructure upgrades. According to GlobalData, the city’s population is projected to grow from 3.3 million in 2020 to around 5.8 million by 2040. This growth will also increase the daytime population from 4.5 million to 7.8 million, placing added demand on the transportation network.
To accommodate this rising need, Dubai is investing heavily in public transport enhancements. In December 2023, the city awarded a AED 20.5 billion ($5.5 billion) contract for the extension of the Dubai Metro Blue Line. This extension will transport up to 320,000 passengers daily, serving key areas like Festival City, International City, Rashidiya, Warqa, Mirdif, Silicon Oasis, and Academic City.
Guided by the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan
Dubai’s infrastructure projects align with the goals of the 2040 Urban Master Plan, launched in March 2021. A crucial part of this vision is the 20-Minute City Policy, approved by Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al-Maktoum in December 2022.
The policy aims to ensure that 80% of residents’ daily needs can be met within a 20-minute journey—either by foot or bicycle. To achieve this, the city is developing integrated service centers and increasing population density around mass transit hubs.
The Future of Dubai’s Transport Infrastructure
Dubai’s ongoing investment in infrastructure underscores its commitment to urban sustainability and economic growth. With projects like the Al-Qudra Street expansion and the Dubai Metro Blue Line extension, the city is well on its way to enhancing connectivity, reducing congestion, and improving the overall quality of life for its residents and visitors