Al Taawun Square to reopen to traffic in time for Sharjah International Book Fair

Al Taawun Square in Sharjah will reopen to traffic on November 4, just in time for the Sharjah International Book Fair, according to authorities. This move aims to enhance access to the Expo Centre Sharjah and facilitate the journeys of the thousands of attendees anticipated at the fair. The decision to reopen the junction ahead of the event was announced on the Direct Line program, accompanied by an image depicting the planned design of the square and the traffic light-controlled intersections surrounding it.

Construction is ongoing for the larger Al Taawun Tunnel project, which is intended to alleviate congestion at one of the busiest points along the main route between Sharjah and Dubai. Officials anticipate that the tunnel development could cut waiting times for motorists by up to 85 percent. The initial phase of the tunnel project is slated to commence in November 2026, with the completion of all work expected by February 2027.

Among the numerous road enhancements currently underway in Al Taawun, the junction's reopening is particularly significant, as heavy traffic often accumulates during peak periods. Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, the Ruler of Sharjah, has also given the go-ahead for the Al Freish Lake project in the city of Kalb. This project will encompass an area of approximately 51,200 square meters, with a storage capacity of up to 28 million gallons of water, and will feature 200 parking spaces to cater to visitors.

Sheikh Dr Sultan described the lake as a delightful park for children, akin to the Al Rafisah Dam project. He added that trees are being planted in the area, alongside waterfalls that flow into the sea, providing a pleasant environment for people to walk and enjoy a leisurely stroll.