It was proposed by Tan Sri Datuk Lim Kang Hoo, a chairman of Ekovest Berhad.

In addition to improving connectivity, DUKE disperses traffic from the city to the suburban range through several routes in and out of several branches of the main intersection.

It was identified by DBKL as one of the main connecting routes to complete the Kuala Lumpur Structure Plan 2020.

DBKL conducted a detailed study of the alignment that feed the next three years, including Environmental Impact Assessment and Public Opinion.

These studies and reports were approved by the Concession Agreement signed with the Federal Government on 12 August 2004.

The expressway was partially (2/3) opened officially by the Minister of Works Ir Mohd Zin Mohamed on 9 January 2009.

Built to accommodate 120,000 vehicles per day, this expressway will offer an attractive alternative route to Klang Valley residents, especially for those traveling from east to west and for those who want to go to the city centre.

The phase two development of the DUKE will be built by Ekovest Bhd and will start in two weeks at a construction cost of RM1.183 billion.