The Royal Commission for Riyadh City announced the launch of a new phase of the Imam Muslim Road Development Project, as part of its ongoing efforts to improve the efficiency of the road network in the Saudi capital and alleviate traffic congestion on its vital thoroughfares. This project falls under the second phase of the city's ring road and main artery development program, which is an integral part of a comprehensive strategy to enhance the quality of life and strengthen the capital's infrastructure.
General context: Keeping pace with rapid growth and Vision 2030
Riyadh is experiencing rapid population and urban growth, placing increasing pressure on its infrastructure, particularly its road network. In this context, the importance of major development projects aimed at accommodating this growth and ensuring smooth traffic flow becomes evident. The Imam Muslim Road Development Project falls within the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, which prioritizes the development of Saudi cities and their transformation into attractive destinations for residents and investment by providing advanced and sustainable infrastructure that meets current needs and anticipates future needs.
Project details and ambitious goals
Upon completion, the project aims to develop Imam Muslim Road, spanning a total length of 12 kilometers. The works include the construction of four main bridges, each 150 meters long, in addition to widening the road to significantly increase its capacity to 200,000 vehicles per day. The project's modern engineering design incorporates three main lanes and two service lanes in each direction, ensuring smooth traffic flow and separating through traffic from local traffic, thus reducing intersections and enhancing road safety.
The importance and expected impact of the project
Locally, the project will directly alleviate chronic traffic congestion in southern Riyadh neighborhoods, facilitating easier movement for residents and visitors. It will also enhance the direct connection between the Southern Ring Road and Dirab Road, two key arteries in the capital's road network. Improved traffic flow is expected to reduce travel times, lower fuel consumption and carbon emissions, and consequently improve air quality. Nationally, developing Riyadh's infrastructure will bolster its position as a major economic and administrative hub in the Kingdom, supporting its capacity to host major international events and attract further investment.
Traffic management during the implementation period
To ensure this phase of the works is carried out to the highest standards of efficiency and safety, the Authority announced the activation of a new traffic diversion. This diversion involves the continued closure of Imam Muslim Road at the intersections of Al-Etedal Road and Arafat Road, with traffic being directed to fully prepared service roads and alternative routes. The work area has been equipped with the necessary directional and warning signs in coordination with the relevant authorities, and map applications have been updated to reflect the new routes, ensuring the continuity of traffic flow with minimal disruption to road users.
