Dubai Walk Master Plan Approved To Create A Year-Round Pedestrian-Friendly Environment

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has endorsed the Dubai Walk Master Plan. This initiative aims to make Dubai more pedestrian-friendly. The plan was approved with H.H. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, present. It focuses on creating a network of walkways that are accessible, safe, and comfortable.

The plan envisions a 6,500 km network of walkways covering 160 areas in Dubai. It includes constructing 3,300 km of new paths and upgrading 2,300 km by 2040. Beyond 2040, over 900 km of additional walkways are planned. The project also involves developing 110 pedestrian bridges and underpasses to improve connectivity across the city.

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Aligned with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan’s ‘20-Minute City’ goal, the initiative aims for 80% of residents to access essential services within a short commute. The plan enhances pedestrian safety by connecting existing walkways and integrating cultural elements into infrastructure. This reflects each area's unique identity while promoting collaboration with strategic partners for innovative solutions.

At the launch near the Museum of the Future, Sheikh Mohammed was received by Mattar Al Tayer from the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). Al Tayer explained how this plan strengthens Dubai's global competitiveness in pedestrian mobility. The pilot phase runs from 2025-2027, with full implementation in three stages from 2027-2040.

The project will link major landmarks like Burj Khalifa and Dubai Marina with distinct designs reflecting their surroundings. Walkways will feature greenery, shaded areas, misting systems, digital screens, art displays, sports equipment, rest areas, and commercial spaces. Accessibility is prioritised through signage, lighting, integrated pavements, art displays, and smart applications.

Sheikh Mohammed reviewed plans for a 17 km first phase featuring two key routes: a historical route in Al Ras highlighting heritage sites and ‘The Future Loop’ near the Museum of the Future. This elevated walkway connects key landmarks like Emirates Towers and nearby metro stations.

Enhancing Connectivity

The project includes developing bridges on Al Ittihad Road connecting Al Nahda and Al Mamzar; Tripoli Street linking Al Warqa and Mirdif; Al Khawaneej Street joining Mushrif and Al Khawaneej; and Dubai-Al Ain Road connecting Silicon Oasis and Dubailand. These enhancements aim to increase road capacity by 30% while reducing travel time significantly.

A global competition attracted six international consultancy firms for innovative designs in Al Ras and the Museum area. LXA's concept was chosen for its elegant design complementing landmarks like the Museum of the Future. This supports both pedestrian access and soft mobility integration with metro stations.

Promoting Active Lifestyles

The Scenic-Leisure Walkways include waterfront paths totalling 112 km; urban areas cover 64 km; green paths span 124 km; rural trails extend over 150 km. City Connectivity Walkways focus on public transport connections in areas like Business Bay while Community Walkways link residential zones to attractions starting with locations such as Al Barsha 2.

Sheikh Mohammed also reviewed models for urban spaces including Plazas at Etihad Museum; Superblocks covering areas like Al Fahidi; Boulevards transforming streets such as Jumeirah into pedestrian-friendly spaces enhancing community interaction through thoughtful design interventions.

Smart Application Launch

A smart application will be launched to encourage walking by tracking user data such as routes taken or steps counted along with providing information about walkway features or facilities available nearby events happening around them too! Users can save favourite routes earn rewards based on distances walked redeemable discounts digital wallet credits adding value experience overall engagement levels increased significantly through this initiative alone!

With inputs from WAM