Dubai Opens Umm Suqeim Tunnel to Cut Travel Time by 60%

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has officially opened a new 800-meter tunnel on Umm Suqeim Street, creating a faster, smoother route through one of the city’s busiest areas. The tunnel features four lanes in each direction, cutting average travel time from 9.7 minutes down to just 3.8 minutes.

Connecting Communities Faster

The Umm Suqeim Tunnel links Sheikh Zayed Road with Al Khail Road and parallel service roads. It will serve over a million people living in key neighborhoods such as Al Barsha South, Dubai Hills, and Al Quoz.

By easing congestion and improving accessibility, the new tunnel will directly benefit residents, daily commuters, and commercial traffic. According to the RTA, this project is a major milestone in its broader infrastructure plan aimed at keeping pace with Dubai’s rapid urban growth.

Smart Tech Behind the Speed

To accelerate construction and ensure safety, RTA used advanced technologies like real-time monitoring drones and automated control systems. The tunnel is also equipped with high-resolution cameras, intelligent traffic sensors, and ventilation systems to support smooth and safe driving conditions.

“This tunnel was delivered using the latest construction and monitoring techniques,” said an RTA spokesperson. “It’s part of our commitment to smarter, faster, and more connected roads across Dubai.”

The new infrastructure aligns with Dubai’s urban mobility goals under the Smart Mobility Strategy, which aims to expand driverless and AI-powered transport across the city.

Earlier projects like the Ras Al Khor corridor expansion and Al Khawaneej improvements also contributed to the growing network of seamless travel routes across the Emirate. This new tunnel is expected to handle thousands of vehicles daily with improved safety and reduced emissions.

For more on RTA’s latest developments, visit the official RTA portal.