A new traffic diversion is now open in Riyadh at the busy intersection of Thumamah Road and Al-Sahabah Road starting from September 12, 2026. This important update affects daily commuters, residents, and drivers heading through the eastern part of the city. Here are the key details you need to know about the new road changes:
- New traffic diversion implemented at Thumamah Road and Al-Sahabah Road intersection in Riyadh.
- Traffic redirected to a parallel road on the northern side with three lanes in each direction.
- Bridge and tunnel construction is underway at the junction to improve road capacity.
- No end date announced yet by authorities for this current traffic diversion.
The Royal Commission for Riyadh City (RCRC) announced that the new measure is part of a major road development project on the eastern section of Thumamah Road.
Traffic passing through this junction has been redirected to a parallel road on the northern side of Thumamah Road, providing three lanes in each direction. This change is intended to facilitate the ongoing construction of a bridge and tunnel at the intersection while maintaining traffic flow.
A service lane has also been provided to ensure continued access to nearby buildings and properties. This development is part of an 8-kilometer Eastern Thumamah project, which includes the construction of three bridges, three tunnels, and four major intersections connecting to Airport Road, Saeed bin Zaid Road, Sheikh Hassan bin Hussein bin Ali Road, and Al-Sahabah Road.
The initiative aims to increase the capacity of this corridor to over 200,000 vehicles per day to accommodate Riyadh's growing population and traffic demands. The project is a component of the third phase of the Ring Roads and Main Roads Development Program, which encompasses over 500 kilometers of road network improvements across the city.
Authorities have not announced an end date for the current diversion and have urged commuters—including employees traveling to the Airport Road corridor, residential districts, and business areas—to follow directional signs and exercise caution.
Drivers are advised to use live navigation tools and account for additional travel time, particularly during peak hours, as road geometry in the construction zone differs from standard conditions.
Passengers using ride-hailing services or taxis, as well as commercial vehicle operators, are encouraged to plan routes carefully and confirm access points for specific locations to avoid delays.
