Dubai Municipality Completes AED 112 Million Development Of Dubai Creek’s Deira Wharf To Boost Tourism And Trade
Dubai Municipality has finalised the development of a two-kilometre wharf on the Deira side of Dubai Creek. This project, costing AED112 million, aims to enhance the quay's infrastructure and operational efficiency. It also seeks to boost the creek's commercial and tourism appeal. The initiative is part of efforts to preserve Dubai Creek's heritage while supporting the Dubai Economic Agenda D33.
The upgrades involved raising the retaining wall height to 8.3 metres and installing 200 anchors along with 500 ship berths. These improvements are designed to enhance maritime navigation safety and support various marine activities related to commerce and tourism. The project ensures safe docking for vessels and supports increasing trade volumes.

To improve water flow, 17,500 cubic metres of the creek bed were dredged, and 24,000 cubic metres of protective rock were added for durability. The project used 22,500 cubic metres of concrete and 1,315 precast blocks. Additionally, a 1,200-metre rainwater drainage network was installed in the quay’s rear yard.
The total area of the quay expanded to 320,000 square feet. This includes cargo handling zones and a new public promenade for leisure along the waterfront. Despite rapid development in Dubai, the creek remains an iconic feature of the city's identity as a historical and touristic destination.
Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita, Director-General of Dubai Municipality, stated that developing the Dubai Creek wharf on Deira side is a strategic milestone supporting Dubai's leadership vision and Economic Agenda D33 objectives. "This project reinforces the creek’s role as one of the emirate’s most vital trade and tourism assets," he said.
He further noted that comprehensive upgrades were implemented using advanced equipment and flexible plans ensuring uninterrupted marine traffic. Development on Bur Dubai side is underway over a span of 2.3 kilometres. Once completed, it will enhance safety and efficiency for maritime navigation across both sides.
Comprehensive Upgrades
The project required over 620,000 man-hours to complete. It included raising surface levels for better vessel docking safety and improving retaining wall resilience to support growing trade volumes. These enhancements are part of ongoing efforts by Dubai Municipality to make Dubai more sustainable and attractive.
The contract for this significant development was awarded in February 2024 by Dubai Municipality. This initiative exemplifies their commitment to preserving heritage while advancing infrastructure for economic growth in line with strategic goals outlined in D33 agenda.
This comprehensive development not only strengthens infrastructure but also enhances tourism potential by providing recreational spaces along with improved commercial facilities at this historic site within Dubai's vibrant cityscape.
With inputs from WAM