Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in collaboration with Dubai Airports has awarded a contract to widen and upgrade the bridge leading to Terminal 1 of Dubai International Airport.
The project aims to enhance traffic flow to the terminal, reduce journey times, and improve customers’ experience, while accommodating the continuous growth in passenger numbers at Dubai International Airport, which exceeded 92m in 2024.
Mattar Al Tayer, Director General, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the Roads and Transport Authority said, “The project involves widening the existing bridge from three to four lanes by constructing a new bridge using an innovative system of steel box girders integrated with a composite concrete slab. This engineering solution was selected for its high structural efficiency, enabling delivery within a short time-frame, without the need for traffic diversions on Airport Street or temporary supports beneath the bridge, thereby ensuring uninterrupted traffic flow and the highest safety standards.”
He added, “The total length of the bridge, including its ramps, is 171m, with the main span extending nearly 70m. The project also includes road pavement improvements, upgrades to infrastructure services, and landscaping works to integrate with the surrounding infrastructure, in addition to new street lighting to enhance safety and visibility.”
The expansion will increase the bridge’s capacity from 4,200 to 5,600 vehicles per hour, a 33% increase.
Al Tayer reaffirmed the RTA’s commitment to developing Dubai’s road and transport infrastructure, enhancing the efficiency of key corridors, and providing sustainable, flexible mobility solutions that not only improve overall quality of life, but also strengthen Dubai’s global competitiveness as a premier hub for international events.
“The bridge expansion is part of the RTA’s continuous efforts to improve traffic flow and strengthen connectivity between major corridors and vital facilities, most notably Dubai International Airport, the world’s busiest airport for international passengers. The expansion will boost street capacity, improve safety, and shorten journey times during peak hours,” he concluded.
