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Abu Dhabi is continuing the development of the large-scale Mid-Island Parkway transport project, which will create a new road connection between Saadiyat Island and other parts of the emirate. The first phase is valued at AED 2.85 billion and is scheduled for completion in 2027.
The new eight-lane highway will connect the northern Saadiyat Island interchange on the E12 highway with the southern part of the island and the central interchange on Umm Yifeenah Island. The road will feature four lanes in each direction.
Once the highway opens, travel time from Saadiyat Island to Al Reem Island and central Abu Dhabi is expected to decrease from approximately 25 minutes to 10 minutes. The new route will provide an additional alternative to existing roads and help reduce congestion across the capital’s transport network.
The project includes sections built on reclaimed land, marine crossings, and an approximately 600-meter underwater section. Construction plans also incorporate energy-efficient lighting, landscaping with drought-resistant plants, and engineering solutions designed to minimize the impact on coastal ecosystems.
As part of the first phase, approximately 4 km of new pedestrian and cycling paths will be developed. Together with existing routes, they will form a continuous corridor of around 12 km between Saadiyat Island and Umm Yifeenah Island.
The second phase of Mid-Island Parkway will extend approximately 14.5 km, continuing the transport corridor toward Al Raha Beach and Khalifa City. The route is expected to include marine bridges, elevated road sections, and an underwater road tunnel. Once the entire project is completed, the journey between Saadiyat Island and Zayed City is expected to take less than 15 minutes.
At the same time, Abu Dhabi authorities are considering the construction of a separate 37-km coastal highway. It would connect Al Hudayriat Island with the E11 highway in the Al Nouf area, passing through Halat Al Bahrani, Al Futaisi, and Al Aryam islands. The project includes a tunnel, marine bridges, and causeways, along with dedicated measures to protect natural areas.
The development of the road network is particularly important for Saadiyat Island, Al Reem Island, Al Raha Beach, and Khalifa City, where major residential, tourism, and cultural projects are underway. Shorter travel times and new transport routes could improve living conditions, increase property accessibility, and support investment interest in these locations.
The construction of Mid-Island Parkway is part of Abu Dhabi’s long-term development as a well-connected island city. The new infrastructure will enable faster travel between residential, business, and tourism districts while creating additional opportunities for the emirate’s real estate market.
