Abu Dhabi: The Mina Tunnel has reduced journey times by up to 40% and traffic accidents by 23%, according to findings published by Abu Dhabi’s Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT). The tunnel, which opened in 2023, has improved traffic movement and road connectivity in the capital.
The department’s impact study, covering the tunnel and its connecting roads, also found that traffic volumes on the Sheikh Khalifa Bridge increased by 26.7%, reflecting improved access between important parts of Abu Dhabi. The findings were originally announced in March 2025 and highlighted again in UAE media reports on October 18, 2026.
The study also reported a reduction of up to 37% in nearby air pollutant concentrations, attributed to smoother traffic movement and improved tunnel ventilation. According to DMT’s long-term projections, the project could prevent approximately 65,000 metric tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions by 2050.
By 2050, the tunnel is also projected to save a cumulative 34 million hours of travel time and contribute approximately AED1.66 billion to Abu Dhabi’s economy through construction activity and improved productivity. These longer-term benefits are official estimates rather than results already achieved.
