Bahrain Launches Major Infrastructure Projects to Ease Isa Town Traffic

Bahrain has officially commenced several strategic infrastructure projects as of early 2026 aimed at easing persistent traffic congestion in Isa Town, following a legislative push for urgent solutions in the area surrounding the Isa Town Gate. The projects form part of the broader Government Plan (2023–2026), which focuses on modernizing the national road network and improving traffic flow across key urban corridors.

According to official updates, approximately 82% of the nationwide road projects outlined under the plan have already been completed, with Isa Town identified as a priority due to its central location and high daily traffic volumes. Among the most significant initiatives is the Northern Isa Town Interchange at the junction of Shaikh Salman Highway and Oman Street, where construction began in late 2024. The BD 22.3 million project is expected to be completed within 24 months, targeting late 2026.

The interchange includes a three-lane flyover in both directions on Shaikh Salman Highway, alongside an upgraded ground-level, signal-controlled intersection to better manage traffic from Oman Street and Salmabad Avenue. Once completed, the project is expected to boost road capacity from 12,000 to 22,500 vehicles per day, significantly reducing congestion during peak hours.

Further south, upgrades at the Southern Isa Town Junction (Isa Town Gate) and along Shaikh Salman Highway are focused on expanding capacity and strengthening connectivity between Manama and Riffa. Related improvements on the Shaikh Isa bin Salman Highway have already demonstrated positive results, increasing throughput from 6,000 to 8,000 vehicles per hour.

Additional development is underway along Al Mithaq National Street and 16th December Street, where new lanes and flyovers are being introduced to create a seamless traffic link toward the Alba intersection. These roadworks are part of a wider infrastructure package that also includes new sewage and drainage networks for the Southern Governorate, scheduled for final delivery by 2026.

Complementing the road upgrades, public transport integration remains a key pillar of the strategy. Recent updates to Bahrain Metro Phase One confirm that the second metro line will directly serve the Educational District in Isa Town, passing through Juffair, with the goal of reducing reliance on private vehicles and easing long-term traffic pressure in the area.