Say goodbye to all those taxi apps cluttering your phone, because Dubai is about to take the city to a whole new level. The hassle of shelling out AED 50+ for a ride to a place just 20 minutes away? That’s about to be a thing of the past – soon, you might even enjoy walking that distance! Dubai is gearing up for a game-changing transformation with the launch of the ‘Dubai Walk’ project, an initiative aimed at making walking the go-to way to explore the city. Announced by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, this bold plan is set to redefine urban mobility and promote healthier, more vibrant lifestyles. Stick with me, and I’ll walk you through all the ways Dubai is going to be more connected than ever!
What’s in the Master Plan?
The project will create a seamless network of 3,300 kilometers of pathways, weaving through every corner of the city. These walkways will include:
- 110 pedestrian bridges and tunnels for safe and easy crossings.
- 112 kilometers of scenic waterfront pathways for a relaxing stroll by the water.
- 124 kilometers of green trails, offering a nature-filled escape.
- 150 kilometers of rugged rural and mountainous paths for the ultimate adventure seekers.
Chill Walks, All Year Long
Given Dubai’s heat, smart cooling systems will be integrated along corridors and pathways between buildings, keeping your walks cool and comfortable no matter the season.
The Kickoff of Dubai Walk
The project kicks off at two standout locations, each offering its own one-of-a-kind walking experience:
1.Museum of the Future
This route seamlessly combines cutting-edge innovation with connectivity. Highlights include:
- A 2-kilometer-long skybridge.
- Climate-controlled walkways for year-round comfort.
- Vibrant public spaces and commercial hubs.
This route will connect major landmarks like the Dubai World Trade Centre, Emirates Towers, and metro stations, perfectly embodying the city’s forward-thinking vision.
2. Al Ras
Take a journey through history with a 15-kilometer heritage trail, winding through Dubai’s iconic historic and waterfront areas. This scenic route will feature lush green spaces, public exhibits, and plenty of spots to immerse yourself in the city’s rich cultural heritage.
A 3-Phase Blueprint for a Walkable Dubai
The Dubai Walk rollout will unfold in three phases:
- Phase 1: Focus on key areas like Al Barsha 2, Al Khawaneej 2, and Al Mizhar 1.
- Phase 2: Expand to cover 160 neighborhoods across residential, urban, and tourist zones.
- Phase 3: By 2040, connect the entire city with 6,500 kilometers of pathways, including upgrades to 2,300 kilometers of existing routes and an additional 900 kilometers of new pathways planned for the years after 2040.
Bridging Communities
The plan also features pathways designed to link residential neighborhoods, urban districts, and popular tourist destinations. Key highlights include three major bridges:
- Al Ittihad Street: Linking Al Nahda and Al Mamzar.
- Tripoli Street: Connecting Al Warqa and Mirdif.
- Dubai-Al Ain Road: Bridging Dubai Silicon Oasis and Dubailand.
By 2040, Dubai plans to build 6,500 kilometers of interconnected pathways, with 3,300 kilometers being brand new and 2,300 kilometers upgraded. An additional 900 kilometers will be added after 2040.
Walk, Track & Earn
To inspire more people to get walking, a smart app will be launched to track your steps, routes, and time spent walking. Plus, you’ll rack up points that can be redeemed for discounts or e-wallet credits! The app will also highlight nearby attractions, events, and art displays, making your walks even more exciting and rewarding.
A Vision for Smarter City Mobility
The ‘Dubai Walk’ is a key part of the city’s ambitious 20-minute city plan, aiming to ensure that by 2040, residents can access everyday essentials within just a 20-minute walk or bike ride. Other mobility options will include:
- Dedicated cycling lanes for smooth, safe rides.
- Expanded metro lines for faster, more efficient travel.
- Water taxis offering scenic and convenient commutes.
- Future-ready flying taxis on aerial routes for next-level mobility.
A City for Health & Happiness
Sheikh Mohammed’s vision for Dubai is crystal clear: a city where residents thrive in health, happiness, and balance. With the ‘Dubai Walk’ project, the emirate is making a bold leap towards creating a sustainable, walkable urban landscape that’s inclusive and designed for everyone.