Dubai Approves Dh3.5 Billion First Phase of 80-Kilometre Fourth Corridor Highway with 72 Bridges and 17 Tunnels Linking Al Faya Road in Abu Dhabi to Al Shanouf Road in Sharjah

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, approved on September 16 the implementation of the Fourth Corridor project, an 80-kilometre highway connecting Dubai with Abu Dhabi and Sharjah. The first phase, valued at Dh3.5 billion, will extend from Al Shanouf Road in Sharjah to Dubai-Al Ain Road, with the second phase continuing from Dubai-Al Ain Road to Al Faya Road in Abu Dhabi. The project will include 72 bridges, 17 tunnels, and 45 stormwater drainage culverts, and is expected to cut travel times by up to 60 percent when completed. This is a Dubai government initiative aimed at strengthening Dubai road network and enhancing connectivity with the UAE federal road network, distinct from the separate Dh6 billion Fourth Federal Corridor project under federal jurisdiction that was first announced in November 2025. The 12-lane corridor in both directions will accommodate up to 24,000 vehicles per hour and serve more than 3.1 million people. The motorway will connect with Al Maktoum International Airport and Etihad Rail, strengthening links between road, rail, and air transport. Sheikh Hamdan said the project reflects Dubai continued commitment to investing in infrastructure as a driver of economic growth, a foundation for enhancing quality of life, and a key pillar of Dubai readiness for the future. The corridor is expected to support the UAE logistics and commercial transport sectors by improving connectivity between key residential, industrial, commercial, and transport hubs. The project aligns with directives from Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum to boost investment in infrastructure as Dubai population and economy continue to grow.