Doha, Qatar – The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) has announced a temporary closure of the entrance to Izghawa Street from the Rabiah bin Issa Al-Kuwari intersection, impacting traffic flow in the western areas of Doha. The closure, scheduled for the early morning hours of Friday, January 16, and Saturday, January 17, 2026, is intended to facilitate road safety improvements. Motorists are advised to plan alternative routes during this period to avoid potential delays.
The affected area is the westbound entrance to Izghawa Street specifically at its intersection with Rabiah bin Issa Al-Kuwari. This closure is part of ongoing efforts by Ashghal to enhance infrastructure and improve road conditions throughout Qatar, particularly in rapidly developing areas. The timing of the work is designed to minimize disruption to peak traffic hours, though some inconvenience is expected.
Izghawa Street Closure: Details and Diversions
Ashghal stated the closure is necessary for the installation of speed tables. These traffic calming measures are implemented to reduce vehicle speeds and enhance pedestrian safety in residential and high-traffic zones. The installation is a proactive step to address potential safety concerns along Izghawa Street.
Road users intending to access Izghawa Street via the Rabiah bin Issa Al Kuwari Intersection are being directed to utilize alternative routes. Ashghal recommends using Zekreet, Wadi Al Themaid, Al Ghafat, and Wadi Al-Mashrab streets as detours. These routes will add travel time, so drivers should factor that into their plans.
Alternative Routes for Westbound Traffic
For those approaching from the west, Ashghal suggests using Jery Bu Awseja and Jery Bu Areesh, connecting to Zekreet Street, to reach their destinations. This diversion aims to maintain connectivity to Izghawa Street while the primary entrance undergoes construction. Detailed signage will be placed along the diversion routes to guide drivers.
Qatar has experienced significant population growth and infrastructure development in recent years, leading to increased traffic volume on many roads. Ashghal regularly undertakes maintenance and improvement projects to accommodate this growth and ensure the safety and efficiency of the transportation network. These projects often involve temporary road closures and diversions.
The installation of speed tables is a common practice in urban planning to mitigate speeding and reduce the risk of accidents, especially in areas with pedestrian activity. While potentially causing minor inconvenience, these measures are generally well-received by residents seeking safer streets. The specific need for speed tables on Izghawa Street likely stems from a traffic assessment conducted by Ashghal.
This temporary closure is not expected to impact access to major facilities or residential areas beyond the immediate vicinity of the Rabiah bin Issa Al Kuwari intersection. However, commuters are strongly encouraged to check Ashghal’s website and social media channels for real-time traffic updates and any potential changes to the diversion plan. Staying informed will help minimize delays and ensure a smoother journey.
Looking ahead, Ashghal anticipates completing the speed table installation within the two-day timeframe. The reopening of the Izghawa Street entrance will be announced through official channels. Further road improvements in the area are possible as part of Ashghal’s long-term infrastructure plans, and residents should continue to monitor announcements regarding potential future disruptions. The success of these diversions and the overall project will be evaluated by Ashghal to inform future traffic management strategies.
The implementation of these traffic management measures highlights Qatar’s commitment to improving its road infrastructure and ensuring the safety of all road users. The road closure is a temporary inconvenience intended to deliver long-term benefits to the community.