Dubai-Sharjah traffic congestion causes heavy delays on major routes

Commuters traveling between Dubai and Sharjah are facing significant delays due to heavy traffic, accidents, and ongoing construction. Major pressure points include Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road (E311), Emirates Road (E611), and Al Ittihad Road (E11). Recent incidents, such as a crash on the E311 near Industrial Area 15, have contributed to slower movement and tailbacks.

A comparative test of routes revealed that Emirates Road, despite being longer by approximately 25 kilometers, was the fastest option for evening rush hour travel, reaching Sharjah in about 1 hour and 2 minutes. In contrast, the shorter Al Ittihad Road took 1 hour and 27 minutes, while the E311 journey took 1 hour and 40 minutes due to heavy congestion near Mirdif.

Experts warn that driving behaviors during the school run are exacerbating these delays. Issues such as sudden lane changes, last-minute merging, double-parking near school entrances, and blocking junctions create ripple effects that disrupt traffic flow and increase congestion for the wider community.