Running from Dubai’s creek in the north of the city, through to the industrial Jebel Ali Port area, the highway’s second deck could stretch up to 35 kilometres, MEED has reported.

A feasibility study is already underway and the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has invited firms to take part in a design competition to transform the road, which is known as ‘E11’ throughout the UAE.

The super highway is the pulmonary artery of the top Gulf destination, which spans seven lanes in each direction for the majority of its length – from northern emirate Ras Al Khaimah (where it is known as Sheikh Muhammed bin Salem Road) to UAE capital Abu Dhabi, where it is known as Sheikh Maktoum Road.

Consultants have been invited to submit proposals, which will be accepted on March 25 this year. The first prize is AED 1 million (US $272,272) with second and third prizes at $204,000 and $136,136 respectively.

The Middle East Economic Digest has inferred the elevated roadway will be for long-distance traffic, meaning the number of junctions and exit ramps will be limited. MEED has also speculated the bypass could be a toll-road. Dubai’s Sheikh Zayed Road already charges UAE vehicles via a high-tech scanning system called Salik.

The RTA is also readying Dubai’s first tram line, labeled the ‘Al-Sufouh’ tram. It is intended to connect people between two popular tourist areas, Dubai Marina and the Palm Jumeirah. It will also run through Knowledge Village, one of the main university campuses in Dubai. The RTA will start testing the trams on January 26. More info

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