Abu Dhabi inaugurates new bridge, slashes travel time to 3 minutes

Mohammed Ali Al Shorafa, chairman of the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT), today inaugurated a new bridge connecting Bani Yas East and Bani Yas West in Abu Dhabi.

Situated on Abu Dhabi Al Ain Road (E22), the new highway improves traffic flow to and from Bani Yas and other nearby areas. It reduces travel time from 11 minutes to just three minutes for residents travelling between East to West Baniyas.

The interchange can accommodate around 1400 vehicles per hour travelling from E22 Abu Dhabi / Al Ain and 1100 vehicles per hour travelling from East or West Baniyas.

The project includes the construction of the upper intersection linking east and west Bani Yas, as well as associated roads, the transformation of the current East Bani Yas roundabout into a light signal intersection, as well as the construction of pedestrian ramps.

The project also involved demolishing existing pedestrian tunnels, the transport and protection of water and communication lines, irrigation lines and the sewage line, as well as street lighting and the electricity distribution network.

Dr Salem Khalfan Al Kaabi, director general of Operational Affairs at the DMT, stated: “The new bridge in Abu Dhabi marks a significant milestone for Abu Dhabi, connecting communities and providing improved accessibility for residents and visitors alike. Its innovative design and state-of-the-art features demonstrate Abu Dhabi’s commitment to modernity and progress, while also enhancing the city’s infrastructure and promoting economic growth.

Saif Badr Al Qubaisi, director general of Abu Dhabi City Municipality confirmed that the new bridge is a crucial part of Abu Dhabi City Municipality’s strategic plans aimed at enhancing the infrastructure system to accommodate the anticipated increase in population and road users.

“The new bridge is designed to boost economic growth and improve traffic flow from East and West Bani Yas and other nearby areas while adhering to the highest traffic safety standards.”

Furthermore, Al Qubaisi emphasised that the new bridge underscores the municipality’s dedication to continuously improving and developing the critical components of the infrastructure network on Abu Dhabi Island and the mainland.

“This will increase its efficiency and preserve the emirate’s competitiveness in the infrastructure sector, positioning Abu Dhabi as one of the world’s top cities in terms of infrastructure systems, roads, bridges and tunnels.”

The project also includes the construction of the main bridge consisting of concrete slab and external and internal pillars, the construction of two bridges consisting of a single sea slab, pillars and foundations, as well as the construction of a CCTV system, traffic lights, pedestrian signs, fibre optic cables and connectivity to the Abu Dhabi Traffic Management Centre, as well as the implementation of natural cosmetics, sanitation and speed camera transmissions.

The interchange features 210 energy-saving lighting poles, and the asphalt area used in the project is 195,580 square metres.

Also read: Sheikh Mohammed visits new bridge in Dubai