A 6,500km network of pedestrian pathways will be created throughout the city…
Dubai is about to become much more pedestrian-friendly with the launch of an ambitious new Dubai Walk master plan, revealed on Saturday, December 7.
Unveiled by HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the Dubai Walk initiative will revolutionize the city into a pedestrian-friendly hub. This visionary plan includes a new 6,500km network of sleek, modern walkways. The integrated network will span 160 areas across the emirate, with 3,300km of fresh walkways being added, and 2,300km of existing paths and pavements upgraded by 2040. Beyond 2040, an additional 900km of walkways is expected to be built, further enhancing the city’s walkability.
The entire masterplan is crafted to seamlessly connect the city for those who prefer walking, featuring 110 new pedestrian bridges and underpasses to boost accessibility and connectivity.
“Dubai is a city of the future, dedicated to fostering a healthy and vibrant urban lifestyle,” Sheikh Mohammed remarked. “This vision will establish Dubai as one of the world’s most sustainable and healthiest cities.”
.@HHShkMohd greenlights the Dubai Walk Master Plan, set to transform the city into a pedestrian-friendly destination all year round. pic.twitter.com/q997Hcn4Sv
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) December 7, 2024
The Dubai Walk master plan will be rolled out in three phases. The pilot phase, set to run from 2025 to 2027, will kick things off, followed by full implementation in three additional stages between 2027 and 2040. The first phase will introduce 17km of pedestrian pathways, focusing on two key routes: the Al Ras Historical Route in Al Ras and Al Souk Al Kabeer. Once completed, these walkways will offer visitors a chance to explore the emirate’s rich heritage, with 25 revitalized public spaces along the way, including rest areas, parks, and art installations.
In other areas, the project will connect iconic landmarks like Burj Khalifa and DIFC, as well as Dubai Marina and JLT, through walking routes that showcase unique designs and landscaping tailored to each area. Not only will this make the city more walkable, but it will also enhance its aesthetic appeal, adding even more beauty to Dubai’s urban landscape.
More megaproject updates
The Future Loop
As part of the Dubai Walk project, the Dubai Ruler also explored plans for ‘The Future Loop,’ a new elevated walkway that will encircle the Museum of the Future. This 2km path will link some of DIFC and Trade Center’s most iconic landmarks, including the World Trade Centre, Museum of the Future, and Emirates Towers, offering a scenic and enjoyable stroll. Beyond its beauty, it’s also highly practical, as it will connect to nearby metro stations for easy access.
The Future Loop area will be further upgraded with new road infrastructure to enhance accessibility. Across the Trade Centre Roundabout and Al Mustaqbal Street, 6,200 meters of bridges and tunnels will be added, boosting traffic flow by 30%. This upgrade will benefit around half a million commuters, reducing travel time in the area from eight minutes to just over three.
New Urban Spaces
Sheikh Mohammed also examined three innovative models for urban spaces, designed to enhance communities and create gathering spots for people. The first model, Plazas, will be introduced at the Etihad Museum, 2nd of December Street, Al Mamzar, and Mushrif. The second model, Superblocks, will initially cover four areas: Al Fahidi, Al Quoz, Al Karama, and Abu Hail. The third model, Boulevards, will transform four key streets: Jumeirah, Baniyas, Al Khaleej, and Al Muraqqabat.
A New Smart App
To help both residents and visitors stay active, a new smart app will soon be launched, allowing you to track and share your walking data, including routes, duration, and distance. The app will also offer detailed information about Dubai’s pedestrian network, highlighting routes to key landmarks, art installations, and events. Plus, it will feature a reward system, where you earn points for the distances you walk, which can be redeemed for discounts or digital wallet credits. Walking rewards? Count us in!
Sign up now!
