Effects of Rainfall on Roads in Dubai and Sharjah

Key Highlights

• Resumption of operations at Vehicle Inspection Centers and Customer Happiness Centers.

• Compilation of updates at 2 pm on April 18th.

• Ongoing efforts by authorities to reopen more roads.

• Travelers are advised to check for updates before starting their journeys.

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) recommends that travelers check their routes and road conditions before starting their journeys, particularly after the unusual rainfall experienced in the UAE on April 16 and 17.

Although extensive efforts have been made by various organizations, including the RTA and Dubai Municipality, to normalize road conditions, several routes continue to be partially closed due to water accumulation and flooding.

Key Roads Affected as of 2 pm, April 18:

Sections of key roads are experiencing partial closures as a result of the recent rainfall:

• Sheikh Zayed Road: Partial closures between Town Square and Mall of Emirates, and from Downtown Jebel Ali to Dubai Parks and Resorts.

• Al Khail Road: Partial closure from Dubai Hills Mall to Jumeirah Village Circle.

• Al Ittehad Road: Closed in both directions between Dubai and Sharjah.

• Mohammed Bin Zayed Road: Partially closed from International City to Dubai Silicon Oasis.

• Manara Street, Umm Al Suqeim Street, First Al Khail Road, Rabbat Street, and Beirut Street are all experiencing partial closures.

• Service and Arterial Roads near The Gardens, Discovery Gardens, Ibn Battuta Mall: Partial closures are in place.

• Mohammed Bin Zayed Road: Partial closures near Expo City Dubai.

• Sharjah Roads: Al Wahada Street, Al Khan Street, Jamal Abdul Nasser Street, King Abdul Aziz Street, and Al Qasimia Street are closed.

• Additionally, most streets in Sharjah Industrial areas are closed due to flooding.

Resumed Services:

The RTA has announced the resumption of regular service for specific routes on the Red Line of the Dubai Metro, covering the stretch from 'Centrepoint' to 'Dubai Internet City' and from 'Jabal Ali' to 'Expo 2020'. Additionally, Green Line services, from 'Etisalat by E &' to 'Abu Hail' and from 'Creek' to 'Al Ras', have resumed. Ongoing efforts are being made to restore service to the remaining stations and lines.

Sheikh Zayed Road Update:

Sheikh Zayed Road is open for travel from the Dubai World Trade Centre Roundabout to Intersection 9 in the direction of Abu Dhabi. However, travelers should expect delays as certain lanes may have water accumulation.

Taxi and Public Transport Services:

Taxi and public bus services have resumed regular operations, with continued efforts to reduce disruptions and adjust to the adverse weather conditions.

Dubai Tram and Metro Operations:

The Dubai Tram is running smoothly according to its usual timetable, with all stations operating at full capacity. Similarly, Metro services are operating normally at designated stations, and bus services are provided for commuting between affected stations.

Vehicle Inspection and Customer Happiness Centres:

Vehicle Inspection Centers and Customer Happiness Centers have resumed operations as usual.

Note: The aforementioned updates were compiled at 2 pm on April 18th. Authorities are actively working to reopen additional roads. Travelers are encouraged to verify any updates before embarking on their journeys.

Verdict

The resumption of operations at Vehicle Inspection Centers and Customer Happiness Centers signifies a step towards normalcy following the adverse weather conditions. The updates compiled at 2 pm on April 18th provide a snapshot of the progress made by authorities in reopening roads. However, the ongoing efforts highlight the continued commitment to restoring full functionality to affected areas. Travelers are urged to stay informed by checking for updates before commencing their journeys, ensuring safety and efficiency in their travels.

Also Read: Coping With Flood Damage To Your Vehicle: A Step-by-Step Guide For Recovery