Sharjah-Dubai traffic has a big change coming this November

If you make the Sharjah-Dubai traffic commute regularly, you’ll know exactly where things can slow down. Al Taawun is one of those spots. But a major road project is now taking shape beneath the junction, and it could make a noticeable difference to the daily drive. The first phase of the Al Taawun Tunnel is scheduled to open in November 2026, with the full project due for completion in February 2027. Construction had reached 20 per cent in July, according to Sharjah’s Roads and Transport Authority, with work continuing around the clock. The tunnel forms part of a wider programme upgrading key roads linking Sharjah and Dubai. The main feature is a three-lane tunnel in each direction running beneath Al Taawun Roundabout. It is designed to handle around 4,000 vehicles per hour during peak times, giving traffic heading towards Al Nahda Bridge and Dubai a direct route underneath the junction. The wider works will also connect surrounding roads towards Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Street and Emirates Road. This new bridge in Dubai could save you time on your daily drive Al Taawun sees heavy traffic from several major routes, including Al Ittihad Road, Al Nahda, Al Khan and the Corniche area. During the busiest periods – typically 7am to 9am and 5pm to 8pm – traffic can build quickly around the roundabout. By taking through-traffic underground, the new tunnel is expected to reduce stop-start driving and cut waiting times by up to 85 per cent. For commuters heading between Sharjah and Dubai, as well as residents of Al Taawun, Al Nahda, Al Khan and Al Majaz, that could mean fewer delays on one of the emirate’s busiest routes. The Al Taawun Roundabout monument was temporarily removed to allow construction to take place beneath the junction. The structure’s foundations were inspected before work began, with engineers finding that they were deeply rooted and would have made the tunnel works difficult. There’s good news for fans of the landmark, though. His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, said the monument will be restored once the tunnel project is complete.