With buildings like Burj Al Arab, Burj Khalifa, The Frame, and other structures, it’s not surprising why Dubai is known for its architecture. Recently, an upcoming addition to the city’s glimmering skyline has been launched: the multi-million Shindagha Bridge Project.
Based on the infinity sign concept, the project has been dubbed as the “Infinity Bridge.” It was launched recently by the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. He was accompanied by the Crown Prince of Dubai, HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
Image Credit: Dubai Media Office
Infinity-Shaped Bridge to be Built in Dubai
The Shindagha Bridge is actually part of the Shindagha Corridor, an AED 5.035 billion project spanning 13 kilometres along Sheikh Rashid Street, plus Al Khaleej, Al Mina, and Cairo Streets.
During the launch, the Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), HE Mattar Al Tayer, briefed HH Sheikh Mohammed about the new bridge. Here are some key facts about the Shindagha Bridge:
- Part of the 3rd phase of the Shindagha Corridor Project
- Extends 295 metres, of which 150 metres is over Dubai Creek
- Consists of 6 lanes in each direction, plus a pedestrian crossing
- Rises 15.5 metres above water level, enabling passage of boats
- Features an arch shaped in mathematical symbol for infinity
- Top of the infinity arch measures 42 metres high
- Bridge construction will involve 2,400 tons of steel
To unveil the design of the Shindagha Bridge, HH Sheikh Mohammed drew the infinity sign on an electronic screen. The launching also marks the start of the bridge’s construction.
Image Credit: Dubai Media Office
The Shindagha Corridor Project
As cited earlier, the bridge is part of the Shindagha Corridor Project, which goes back to several decades ago. Here is a brief overview of this massive project:
- 1972 – The late Sheik Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum signed an agreement in the United Kingdom regarding the construction of Al Shindagha Tunnel.
- 1986 – The Tunnel underwent its first maintenance, which included the use of a special type of plaster that protects the concrete tunnel works
- Fast forward to 2016 – RTA launched the initial phase of the Shindagha Network, during which the Improvement of Sheikh Rashid Street – Oud Metha Street Junction (Wafi Junction) was opened.
- 2017 – The Tunnel underwent maintenance works, which included drilling tests for the outer wall.
- May 2018 – RTA opened Phase 2 of the Project, which involved: construction of two bridges on Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Street; opening of Sheikh Rashid Street – Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Street Junction; construction of a one-lane bridge from Zabeel Street in the direction of Sheikh Rashid Street; and construction of a tunnel on Sheikh Rashid Street in the direction of Al Mankhoul Junction.
Image Credit: Dubai Media Office
Meanwhile, Phases 3, 4, and 5 of the project will involve the following:
- By 2022 (Phase 3) – Completion of Al Shindagha Bridge (a.k.a. Infinity Bridge); construction of Corniche Street on Al Khaleej Street; improvement of Falcon Junction and entry/exit points for Rashid port; and construction of 10 surface junctions
- By 2025 (Phase 4) – Construction Al Shindagha Bridge Extension; improvement of Al Khaleej Street and its intersection with Abu Hail Street; and improvement of intersection of Sheikh Rashid Street with Al Mankhoul, Al Mina, and Jumeirah Streets
- By 2027 (Phase 5) – Construction of Deira Southern Island, including bridges spanning 1.5 kilometres
Image Credit: Dubai Media Office
Here is a video featuring the Shindagha Bridge, shared by Dubai Media Office on Twitter:
The Shindagha Bridge is part of the AED5 billion Shindagha Corridor Project extending 13 km along Sheikh Rashid Street. The Bridge rises 15.5 metres above the water level, allowing the passage of various types of boats plying the Creek. pic.twitter.com/XPvrlXgEWe
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) May 18, 2018
The Shindagha Bridge, along with the other portions of the Shindagha Corridor Project, shall greatly enhance transportation in the emirate. Meanwhile, have you traveled along the creek lately? Here’s a glimpse of what to expect, when you go on a visit to the Dubai Creek.