Work is under way on one of the longest and widest tunnels in the Middle East in Dubai. The project, part of the Dh686 million ($186.7 million) road network around Dubai International Airport, will serve the traffic expected to generate from the massive airport expansions.

The project is being carried out by Consolidated Contracting Company (CCC).

The 1.5-km tunnel, longer than the existing Al Shindagha Tunnel, will run beneath Dubai International Airport. The tunnel will have four lanes in each direction, shoulders and pavements, which will ease traffic flow in and around the airport. The main tunnel will replace Rashidiya Road. The construction will be undertaken in five phases.

The overall road network plan for the airport also includes new interchanges and smaller tunnels. Part of the road that connects interchanges in Al Rashidiya and Al Twar from Beirut Road will be demolished because of the airport runway's expansion. In its place will be a tunnel which connects Nad Al Hamr Road near the Airport Expo in Al Twar area.

As part of the project, there will be a new interchange near Terminal 1 to ease traffic in Al Rashidiya Road and Al Khawaneej. Seven smaller tunnels will be built to provide smoother access to Terminal III. A new interchange on Al Garhoud road is to be constructed to ease traffic from the Cargo Village.

The project has a two-year period contract and is expected to be completed by March-end, 2005. Consultant for the project is Parsons De Leuw Cather.