If you drive around Ras Al Khaimah often, there’s some big news you’ll want to know. Starting September 1, one of the emirate’s busiest roads, Sheikh Mohammed bin Salem Road (E11), will be partly closed. This is because work will begin on a huge development project. The stretch between Al Hamra Roundabout and the intersection with Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road (E311) is about to get a complete makeover, all in the name of smoother journeys and safer roads. I have all the important details you need to know, so keep reading to find out more.
Also read: Dubai To Ras Al Khaimah Bus Timings: Complete 2025 Guide
What’s Changing On E11?
The project is being rolled out in two stages. In the first stage, the road will be widened from two lanes to four in each direction. Which means a lot less congestion during rush hours. A dedicated service road will also be created, so local traffic can move more freely without clashing with highway drivers.
But it’s not just the road surface getting attention. The upgrade also includes major improvements to essential services like electricity, telecommunications, irrigation, and rainwater drainage. Plus, modern LED streetlights are being added, making night driving safer and more comfortable.
Bridges, Tunnels & Smarter Junctions
Once the widening is done, the project moves into stage two (and this is where things get even more exciting). Four major spots will see new bridges and tunnels that are designed to keep traffic moving with fewer bottlenecks. These include Dolphin Junction (S4), the E11–E311 Junction (D1), the Red Tunnel (S3), and the Mina Al Arab Tunnel (F1/F2). This means less waiting at busy intersections and an overall smoother ride across the city. For anyone who’s ever been stuck in long traffic lines in these areas, this change is going to feel like a breath of fresh air.
How Will Traffic Be Managed & Alternative Routes
Of course, big upgrades come with short-term headaches. To keep cars moving during the works, a 2 km temporary road is being built to handle traffic while sections of E11 are closed. Drivers will also be redirected along alternative routes. While the Public Services Department hasn’t listed every exact detour yet, major highways like E311 (Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road) and E611 (Emirates Road) are expected to be key alternatives. Local roads such as Al Rujeebah Street and Al Shuhada Street, may also come into play as handy shortcuts around diversions. So, expect a bit of trial and error in the first few weeks as everyone adjusts to the new routes.
If you’re hitting the road in RAK after September 1, leave a little extra time for your trip. Use navigation apps for real-time traffic updates, and be prepared to explore some alternative routes while the project is underway. It’s a bit of short-term pain for a long-term gain. But the payoff will be a modern, efficient road network that makes life on the move a whole lot easier.
