RCRC Opens New Bridge and Tunnel at Al-Thumamah–Al-Sahabah Intersection

Development works on the eastern section of Al-Thumamah Road continue to progress, part of the Royal Commission for Riyadh City’s (RCRC) wider efforts to upgrade the capital’s road network and keep traffic flowing smoothly along one of its key arteries. Construction is now underway on a bridge and tunnel at the intersection of Al-Thumamah Road and Al-Sahabah Road.

To accommodate the works, a traffic diversion will take effect at the intersection starting September 12, 2026, redirecting traffic onto a parallel road north of Al-Thumamah Road with three lanes in each direction. A dedicated service lane is also being provided for adjacent buildings, ensuring uninterrupted access throughout construction of the tunnel, bridge, and surface intersection. Alternative routes and directional signage are being deployed to protect road users and manage vehicle movement, under a comprehensive traffic management plan coordinated with the relevant authorities to strengthen connectivity between neighboring communities.

The development of Al-Thumamah Road’s eastern section falls under the Third Package of the Main and Ring Road Axes Development Program. Spanning 8 kilometers, the project includes the construction of three bridges, three tunnels, and four major intersections – Airport Road, Saeed bin Zaid Road, Sheikh Hassan bin Hussein Road, and Al-Sahabah Road – and aims to raise the road’s capacity to more than 200,000 vehicles daily, improve traffic service levels, and reduce travel times and delays.

The Main and Ring Road Axes Development Program is a cornerstone of RCRC’s strategy to advance Riyadh’s transport ecosystem and position the capital as a premier hub for sustainable transport and logistics in the Middle East. The Program is delivering on this vision by executing and upgrading more than 500 kilometers of the city’s road network – adding new routes, upgrading major arteries, and integrating them seamlessly.