In the Emirate of Ras Al-Khaimah, United Arab Emirates, VSL recently completed the construction of a low-carbon arch bridge that will be part of a new road connecting the highest peak in the UAE Jebel Jais to the E611 Emirates Road. The Interchange provides smooth connectivity between the northern coastline and Dubai.

VSL was chosen by the Public Service Department of Ras Al-Khaimah to carry out, as main contractor, the full design, casting and erection of the arch bridge.

The bridge is composed of three arch tunnels above the E611 Emirates Road Highway both bounds and the future Etihad Rail corridor, as well as an arch bridge above the main Wadi Haqeel flood path. In total, it consists of 136 precast arches, made of concrete, that support an MSE (Mechanically Stabilized Earth) wall system.

 

An innovative low-carbon solution

VSL has been working on a variety of exciting arch bridge projects in the region recently. This low-carbon design solution is becoming more and more attractive to our clients and considered as an efficient and cost-effective option.

Overall, the carbon footprint of an arch bridge can be reduced by up to 60% compared to that of a beam bridge, taking into account post-tensioning, waterproofing and earth fill. The simplicity of arch bridges allows them to be maintenance-free in the long term: another factor that further reduces the carbon footprint of the structure.

Well done to our VSL teams on site for their professionalism and efficient delivery of the bridge – let’s keep up the great work and contribute to more and more fascinating arch bridge projects!