Dubai Smile

Dubai Smile, also known as Al Ittihad Bridge, is a significant 12-lane bridge located in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, crossing Dubai Creek. It is officially recognized as the seventh crossing over the creek and aims to replace the temporary Floating Bridge that previously connected Deira and Bur Dubai.

The bridge connects important localities including Dubai Creek Park, Dubai Courts, and Wonderland Park on the Bur Dubai side, with Deira City Centre and Dubai Golf Club on the opposite bank. It is designed to enhance traffic flow and reduce congestion across this critical waterway.

The Dubai Smile Bridge stretches approximately 420 meters in length and is 61.6 meters wide, featuring six lanes of vehicular traffic and a pedestrian footpath on each side, capable of handling around 24,000 vehicles per hour.

The bridge rises about 15 meters above the water, allowing for the passage of large boats and yachts along the creek. Its standout design feature is a striking 100-meter-high arch that has contributed to its nickname "Dubai Smile" due to its curved, smiling shape when viewed from a distance.

The bridge also connects with new road infrastructure, including an underpass near Rashid Hospital on the Bur Dubai side and linkage to Al Ittihad Road on the Deira side, facilitating connectivity toward Sharjah and easing traffic in one of Dubai’s busiest corridors.

The project reflects Dubai’s broader urban development goals to improve transportation networks and accommodate its rapidly growing population and economy. Officially approved and supported by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the bridge forms part of an AED 1.1 billion infrastructure initiative.

Construction was planned to be completed within three years, with an initial expected opening around 2018. The Dubai Smile Bridge serves as both a vital transport artery and an iconic architectural landmark, symbolizing Dubai’s commitment to innovation and sustainable urban planning.