Umm Lafina Link Road, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

A major mobility link enhancing connectivity between Abu Dhabi’s Capital District and the Central Business District.

Client

Department of Municipalities and Transport

Project date

2013-2025

The Umm Lafina Link Road forms a key component of Abu Dhabi’s Mid Island Parkway, supporting the Emirate’s long term vision to strengthen mobility between the Capital District and the Central Business District. The project delivers approximately ten kilometres of new roadway and a two kilometre viaduct that crosses environmentally sensitive mangrove areas.

The opportunity

The development required an integrated transport solution that would not only improve mobility across the wider network but also protect the surrounding natural environment. The link road had to support higher travel demand, improve alignment with existing routes and maintain safe, efficient movement while minimising impact on the mangrove ecosystem.

What we did

Zutari played a central role across multiple design phases following its appointment by the Abu Dhabi Department of Transport. The scope covered detailed design for Contract 1, which included six kilometres of highways, five marine bridges, stormwater systems and streetlighting. Zutari also developed a reference design for the design and build Contract 2.
The engineering approach balanced mobility improvements with environmental stewardship through careful alignment revisions and sustainable design measures. The team engaged with various government authorities to capture their requirements and integrate them into the design. This ensured that all existing and proposed service interfaces were coordinated effectively throughout the project lifecycle.
A new mobility corridor strengthens connectivity between Saadiyat Island, Al Reem Island and the mainland while protecting sensitive mangrove environments.

The outcome

The project contributes to a wider twenty five kilometre mobility corridor designed to improve travel efficiency across Abu Dhabi. The new road and viaduct enhance connectivity between major districts while supporting sustainable urban growth. By integrating environmental protections and detailed coordination with multiple authorities, the project advances Abu Dhabi’s long term transport strategy and future development ambitions.

The link road strengthens mobility across Abu Dhabi while protecting sensitive mangrove environments.

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