For all those who have to deal with the traffic problem from Sharjah to Dubai every day, it would be great news to know that the first phase of the project for the construction of the Al Taawun Tunnel will be opened in November 2026, according to the Sharjah Roads and Transport Authority.
This important infrastructure project has been aimed at solving the problem of congestion on Al Taawun Street, which is one of the main arterial roads where drivers are currently experiencing problems with traffic jams that take up to 20 minutes near the roundabout. The transport experts believe that with the completion of the road system, the waiting time for vehicles could be reduced by as much as 85 per cent.
At the heart of the development is a three-lane dual-carriageway underpass constructed directly beneath Al Taawun Square. Engineered to accommodate peak capacities of approximately 4,000 vehicles per hour in each direction, the underpass allows transit traffic to bypass surface-level signalised intersections and roundabouts entirely, ensuring uninterrupted traffic flow between residential communities and neighbouring commercial districts.
The scheduled partial opening in November 2026 will make the main underpass structure and key surface feeder roads operational, linking transit flows directly onto Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road and Emirates Road. Full operational capacity, incorporating all secondary signalised intersections, auxiliary lanes, and pedestrian safety corridors, is slated for total completion by February 2027.
While construction continues, temporary traffic diversions remain active around the perimeter of the worksite. Daily commuters and local residents report that severe congestion near the Al Taawun roundabout currently consumes a disproportionate amount of travel time, particularly during the evening rush hour when vehicles heading to density-packed residential towers merge with outbound traffic bound for Dubai.
The Al Taawun Tunnel initiative is part of a comprehensive infrastructure master plan designed to modernise high-volume transit corridors and accommodate urban expansion across Sharjah. Alongside continuous physical upgrades to the road network, transport authorities are deploying advanced intelligent traffic management systems, expanding regional public bus coverage, and adopting sustainable urban mobility solutions to resolve long-term regional congestion. Gulf Tribune
