UAE Plans Fourth National Highway Under Dh170-Billion Project for Smarter Mobility

The UAE is entering a new phase of mobility guided by steady national progress. To address the traffic issues resulting from a massive population growth over the past few years, the government plans to construct the 4th National Highway. 

The AED 170 billion infrastructure plan will guarantee faster and more efficient movement across major routes. Announced by His Excellency Suhail Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, the new transportation project outlines a focused path for the coming years. 

Here is everything you need to know about the fourth national motorway in the UAE.

About the 120 km UAE Federal Highway Project

The UAE's Dh170 billion infrastructure plan is part of a national effort to elevate mobility standards. It includes large-scale road upgrades, rail improvements, and stronger public transport services. The ministry aims to increase the efficiency of federal roads by 73% within the next five years.

One of the key components of the plan is the proposed fourth national motorway in the UAE. The ongoing study covers a 120km route designed with 12 lanes and a capacity of 360,000 trips per day.

The new corridor comes in addition to significant upgrades on the UAE’s three existing federal highways, all of which will see substantial lane expansions to ease traffic.

This 120 km UAE federal highway project will strengthen national links and support future development. These improvements are designed to support a dynamic and growing nation. 

Federal and local authorities are coordinating to improve network integration and offer more mobility choices. The focus remains on long-term planning and well-connected systems across the emirates.

As part of the UAE National Highway Investment 2030 strategy, this new motorway in the UAE will ease pressure on existing routes and create faster inter-emirate travel.

Major Upgrades to Existing Roads

Several important corridors are set for expansion to improve traffic flow and reduce travel time.

Etihad Road

Etihad Road will be expanded by six lanes, three in each direction. This will bring the total to 12 lanes and increase movement efficiency by 60%.

Emirates Road

Emirates Road will be widened to 10 lanes. This will raise capacity by 65% and reduce travel times by 45%. Development work worth Dh750 million is already underway and is expected to be completed within the next two years.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road

Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road will also be expanded to 10 lanes. This upgrade will increase the road’s capacity by 45%.

These enhancements support the UAE’s long-term goal of building a flexible and future-ready transport network in alignment with the UAE Centennial 2071 plan.

Etihad Rail: Transforming Intercity Travel

Etihad Rail remains a central part of the national mobility vision. Passenger services are scheduled to begin in 2026. The network will connect cities and communities with greater convenience and offer a reliable alternative for long-distance travel.

The AED 50 billion UAE Railway Programme, announced in 2021, plays a major role in building a connected and modern transport system.

Smarter Traffic Systems for a Growing Nation

The ministry is also strengthening its mobility approach with modern systems and technology. A 24-hour integrated traffic monitoring center is in operation, studying movement patterns and generating insights for more efficient transport solutions.

This supports improved safety, better policy development, and lower emissions. The UAE continues to promote public transport and innovative mobility services, ensuring smooth coordination between networks.