Partial Reopening of Al Taawun Interchange in Sharjah Amid Ongoing Tunnel Work
Sharjah's Al Taawun interchange partially reopens with new roads accessible while tunnel construction continues.
Sharjah has partially reopened the Al Taawun interchange, allowing motorists to use newly constructed roads and junctions despite ongoing work on the Al Taawun Tunnel. However, some routes remain closed, requiring drivers to carefully follow diversion signs, especially those heading to Expo Centre Sharjah for the International Book Fair.
A recent inspection found that while parts of the interchange and new roads are operational, construction continues around the tunnel and adjacent areas. Some drivers unfamiliar with the updated layout were observed missing turns and having to navigate around the Expo Centre area.
One motorist, Ashfaq Ahmed from Dubai's Karama area, reported that missing a turn en route to the book fair led to a 15-minute detour during peak traffic hours. His experience underscores the need for drivers to adhere closely to the posted signage in the area.
For those arriving from Dubai via the Al Taawun exit, the direct route to the old Al Taawun Roundabout remains closed. Instead, drivers are directed to take a diversion along Al Taawun Street, turning left at the first traffic light and proceeding alongside Al Khan Lagoon to reach the Expo Centre. The new interchange connection currently allows one-way access to the exhibition venue, while other parts of the road network are still under construction.
Newly opened roads around the tunnel construction site have been surfaced and include junctions to facilitate traffic flow. A parallel road to Al Taawun Street, featuring a small roundabout, has been completed and connects to Al Ittihad Road, providing an additional route through the neighborhood. Despite these openings, some surrounding sections remain affected by construction activities.
For motorists traveling towards Dubai, the road along Al Khan Lagoon behind the Expo Centre remains a key route to access the broader road network. Smaller connecting roads within Al Taawun also provide links to main roads. However, the direct passage through the tunnel construction zone is still closed, so drivers are advised to continue following existing diversion signs rather than assuming all routes have reopened.
The Al Taawun Tunnel project is a significant component of the area's road development plan. Excavation of the 560-meter tunnel, designed to accommodate three lanes in each direction between Al Taawun Street and Al Nahda Bridge, appears largely complete, with ongoing road construction and installation of traditional-style streetlights along upgraded sections.
The first phase of the project was inaugurated on November 4 by Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah. The partial opening aims to enhance access to Expo Centre Sharjah during the International Book Fair, which continues until November 15.
The upcoming phase will see the full opening of the Al Taawun Tunnel and remaining interchange connections, alongside further road improvements intended to improve traffic flow between Sharjah and Dubai.
What this means for you
- Motorists should follow diversion signs carefully when traveling through Al Taawun due to ongoing construction.
- Direct routes through the Al Taawun Tunnel area remain closed; alternative routes via Al Taawun Street and Al Khan Lagoon are in use.
- Drivers heading to Expo Centre Sharjah for the International Book Fair must pay attention to new road signs to avoid missing turns.
- The partial opening improves access to the Expo Centre until November 15, but full interchange access will be available after further construction phases.