UAE Initiates Key Road Closures to Fast-Track Dubai Metro Blue Line and Etihad Rail Projects

Transformational transport upgrades aim to ease traffic congestion, connect communities, and elevate quality of life—despite short-term road diversions and closures across Sharjah and Dubai.

UAE Announces Road Closures Amid Dubai Metro Blue Line, Etihad Rail Construction

As the UAE advances its vision for a seamless, modern transport infrastructure, authorities have begun implementing key road closures and traffic diversions to facilitate construction of two of the nation’s most ambitious mobility projects: the Dubai Metro Blue Line and the Etihad Rail network. Though these temporary changes may disrupt routines, the long-term benefits promise to redefine urban commuting.

A Push Toward Smarter Mobility

Both projects are set to reduce dependence on private vehicles, ease gridlock, and dramatically improve residents’ quality of life. According to estimates, some commuters lose nearly a full day each month stuck in traffic. These upgrades aim to return that time to citizens, while enhancing connectivity across the emirates.

Sharjah Diversions: Mleiha Road Closure

In Sharjah, preparations for the Etihad Rail have resulted in the closure of streets connecting Mleiha Road and Sharjah Ring Road, near University Bridge. The two-month closure began on July 1 and will remain in effect until August 30.

Etihad Rail, envisioned to connect all seven emirates and the broader GCC region, will be a welcome relief for Sharjah residents who often travel daily to Dubai for work.

Dubai: Mirdif and Academic City Impacted

In Dubai, road closures have been announced in Mirdif to enable construction on the Blue Line of the Dubai Metro. These include:

• Closure of the roundabout between 5th and 8th Street near City Centre Mirdif.
• Traffic diversions from 5th to 8th Street towards the mall and vice versa.
• A U-turn facility for residents near Ghoroob Square, and alternative parking access for mall visitors.

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is facilitating smooth traffic flow through diversions and alternate routes.

Meanwhile, in Academic City, the closure of 63 Street in both directions in front of the German International School is underway. Access routes to Sheikh Zayed bin Hamdan Street have been modified, with new entry and exit points provided for the school.

Blue Line: A Vision Realised by 2029

When complete by September 9, 2029, the Dubai Metro Blue Line will be the first metro route to cross the iconic Dubai Creek, connecting key residential zones directly to Dubai International Airport within 20 minutes. The project is forecasted to reduce traffic congestion by 20% and align with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, which envisions a “20-minute city” where 80% of services are accessible within a 20-minute commute.

Inaugurated by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the line’s first station—touted as the world’s tallest metro station—sets a new standard for mass transit design in the region.

As diversions continue, authorities encourage residents to remain patient and informed. These infrastructure upgrades, though temporarily disruptive, are vital steps in shaping a faster, greener, and more efficient future for the UAE.