With over 50 years’ worth of experience in bridge construction in the Gulf region, we at Waagner Biro Bridge Services are a leader among bridge design and build companies in the UAE. Regarding bridge design, our expertise has seen the development and delivery of multiple projects across Dubai and the UAE, each an example of our innovation and commitment to excellence across the entire process, from design through construction to maintenance.
As such, we’ve gained valuable insight into the requirements needed to accomplish bridge projects, whether they’re only for foot traffic or heavy industry. Today, we’ll look at the bridge design and construction processes and share some examples of projects that have earned us a leading reputation in bridge engineering.
UAE bridge design is a very involved process; it requires the input of many stakeholders who all work together to ensure a project meets the highest functionality, safety and aesthetics standards. Regulations and related frameworks also have to be followed closely, like environmental impact assessments and feasibility studies, so that each bridge meshes with overall urban development goals.
During the early stages of bridge engineering, site analysis is conducted to understand what kind of conditions (geographical, geological and climatic) can be expected at the location of bridge construction. With its unique landscape, the UAE has many urban and coastal areas, all with specialized design considerations that must be considered given the region’s harsh weather conditions and high loads of traffic. Our engineers use state-of-the-art modelling tools to better predict what kind of challenges they might face for each project and, by collaborating with architects and other construction professionals, play their role in creating new, iconic infrastructure that supports the UAE’s development.
Taking an approach covering every aspect of bridge design (civil works, marine works, steel works and MEP) has helped build a knowledge base that aided in the delivery of multiple bridge construction projects with various functions. With this in mind, let’s take a closer look at the kinds of bridges we’ve used in projects.
Our cable-stayed bridges, with spans from 100 to 800 meters, offer cost-effective solutions with direct pylon attachment. Suspension bridges, known for their grand scale, span up to 2000 meters, combining beauty with engineering. Both types use our aerodynamic designs to counter wind-induced swaying for stability.
Our truss bridges, for lightweight and high-load applications, span up to 150 meters and are designed for railways and roads. Pipeline bridges using unique suspension systems help to transport heavy objects and pipelines over long distances efficiently.
Our arch bridges, spanning from 80 to 300 meters, have elegant designs adaptable to any landscape and environmental condition.
Our moveable bridges—bascule, swing and vertical lift bridges—are designed for dynamic urban areas and shipping channels. These bridges are designed for quick and easy operation, minimal traffic disruption and reliable performance.
The Floating Bridge, Dubai
One of our most notable projects in the UAE is the Floating Bridge in Dubai, a pontoon bridge 365 meters across Dubai Creek. Completed in only 23 days, this shows our ability to combine innovative design with practicality. The bridge uses a hydraulically driven steel swing gate, which helps keep shipping lanes open.
The ADNEC Bridge, Abu Dhabi
Completed in 2009, this 162m-long bridge is constructed from over 600 tons of steel and 132 glazed panels. It spans eight lanes of the Khaleej l Arabi Coast Road and was designed by renowned architects, Dissing and Weitling. The bridge has become a landmark adjacent to the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre.
The Za’abeel Bridge, Dubai
The Za’abeel Bridge was completed in 2006 and was the first cable-stayed bridge in Dubai. This bridge has a long main support suspended from towers with inclined hangers. As with all cable-stayed bridges, this one required intricate engineering to manage wind-induced vibrations to create better stability.
Yas Marina Hotel Access Bridge
The Yas Marina Hotel Access Bridge was completed in 2009 and is an iconic part of the Formula 1 track on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi. This bridge, with reinforced earth walls, a steel Warren Truss Bridge and composite panel cladding, is the only land connection to the Marina Hotel. The design and construction of this bridge required creative solutions to the challenges of a racetrack environment.
As a leader among bridge design and build companies in the UAE, we proudly deliver exceptional solutions across multiple sectors. Our expertise in infrastructure maintenance, bridges, steel construction, and marine and coastal construction ensures that we meet the unique needs of each project with innovative, tailored approaches.
We leverage advanced technology to minimise disruption and provide critical support, from concept and design to fabrication, erection, and maintenance. Our services include beach cleaning, water transport station construction, groynes, marina and berthing facilities, and beach stabilisation, ensuring the preservation and enhancement of coastal areas.
Additionally, our state-of-the-art steel fabrication facility in Dubai’s Jebel Ali Industrial Area allows us to maintain high standards of engineering excellence. We also lead in wastewater treatment in Qatar, offering safe, effective, and technologically advanced solutions. Our operation and maintenance services cover a wide range of needs, ensuring professional and effective results. Committed to continuous innovation since our beginnings in 1854, we integrate knowledge across divisions, constantly evolving to provide unique, cutting-edge solutions in bridge systems and steel structures.
At Waagner Biro Bridge Services, we are committed to innovation, quality and sustainability and will always lead bridge construction in the UAE. Our projects show our ability to deliver solutions to the evolving needs of the region’s infrastructure. Excellence and a multidisciplinary approach are what we are proud of, and we will continue to contribute to the growth and development of the UAE with bridges that connect communities and drive economic growth. Talk to us today to learn how we can help you with your next project.