Doha, Qatar – Motorists traveling through the Bani Hajer Interchange should prepare for a temporary closure impacting traffic flow from Al Shahama Street and Khalifa Street, announced by the Public Works Authority (Ashghal). The Bani Hajer Interchange closure will take effect at 2:00 AM on Friday, January 9, 2026, and is scheduled to last until 10:00 AM. This disruption is part of ongoing infrastructure improvements in the region, according to Ashghal.
The closure affects traffic originating from Al Shahama Street heading towards Dukhan, as well as vehicles traveling from Khalifa Street intending to reach Al Shahama Street. Ashghal coordinated this temporary shutdown with the General Directorate of Traffic to minimize congestion and ensure public safety during the works. Drivers are urged to plan alternative routes and allow extra travel time.
Understanding the Bani Hajer Interchange Closure and Detour Routes
The temporary shutdown is necessary to facilitate construction or maintenance work at the interchange, though Ashghal has not specified the exact nature of the project. Such closures are common as Qatar continues to invest heavily in its road network to support population growth and the hosting of major international events. This particular interchange is a key node connecting several major roadways in the western part of Doha.
Detour for Traffic from Khalifa Street
Motorists traveling from Doha via Khalifa Street towards Bani Hajer are advised to utilize the bridge leading to New Al Rayyan Street. From there, drivers should execute a U-turn at the Al Shafi Interchange and then proceed through the Bani Hajer Interchange underpass to reach their intended destinations. This detour adds distance and travel time, so planning is essential.
Detour for Traffic from Al Shahama Street
Drivers originating from Al Shahama Street and heading towards Dukhan will need to continue through the Bani Hajer Interchange underpass. They should then access the Al Shafi Interchange on New Al Rayyan Street to perform a U-turn and continue towards Dukhan. This route is designed to maintain connectivity while work is underway, but drivers should anticipate potential delays. Ashghal’s website provides further details on ongoing projects.
The General Directorate of Traffic will be deploying personnel to manage traffic flow and assist motorists during the road closure. They will also be monitoring conditions and making adjustments to traffic management plans as needed. Drivers are encouraged to adhere to all traffic regulations and signage.
This closure is part of a broader pattern of infrastructure development in Qatar, including improvements to the Doha Expressway and other key arterial roads. These projects aim to enhance transportation efficiency and accommodate increasing traffic volumes. The ongoing development reflects Qatar’s commitment to modernizing its infrastructure.
However, temporary disruptions like the Bani Hajer Interchange shutdown are unavoidable during these improvements. The timing of the closure, beginning at 2:00 AM on a Friday, suggests an attempt to minimize impact during peak commuting hours. Nevertheless, drivers should remain vigilant and prepared for potential congestion. Alternative routes, such as utilizing the Orbital Highway, may also be considered depending on the final destination.
Looking ahead, Ashghal has not yet announced a specific completion date for the work at the Bani Hajer Interchange. Motorists should continue to monitor Ashghal’s official channels and traffic updates from the General Directorate of Traffic for any extensions or changes to the closure schedule. The duration of the project and any unforeseen circumstances could influence the timeline for reopening the interchange to full traffic flow. Further announcements regarding the nature of the work are also anticipated.
The impact of this traffic diversion on surrounding areas will be closely watched, particularly regarding congestion on New Al Rayyan Street and the Al Shafi Interchange.
