Get ready to ditch all those taxi apps on your phone because Dubai is levelling up the city like you could have never imagined. The stress of paying AED 50+ to reach a spot just 20 minutes away from you is going to be a thing of the past – soon you’ll have a smooth enough journey to walk that 20 minutes! That’s right, Dubai is preparing for a revolutionary transformation with the launch of the ‘Dubai Walk’ project, an initiative designed to make walking a preferred and seamless way to explore the city! Announced by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, this ambitious plan aims to redefine urban mobility and encourage healthier, happier lifestyles. Come with me, and I’ll show all the ways Dubai is going to become more connected than ever before!
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What’s In The Master Plan?
The project will establish an interconnected 3,300 kilometres of pathways crisscrossing the city. These walkways will include:
- 110 pedestrian bridges and tunnels for safe crossings.
- 112 kilometers of scenic waterfront paths for a leisurely stroll by the water.
- 124 kilometers of lush green trails surrounded by nature.
- 150 kilometers of rural and mountainous paths for adventure enthusiasts.
Cooler Walks, Year-Round
With Dubai’s warm climate, innovative cooling solutions will be installed in corridors and pathways between buildings to ensure walking remains comfortable all year.
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The Starting Points Of Dubai Walk
The project begins with two distinct locations, each offering a unique walking experience:
1. Museum Of The Future
This pathway blends innovation and connectivity. Highlights include:
- A 2-kilometer-long bridge.
- Climate-controlled walkways.
- Public spaces and commercial zones.
This route will link key landmarks like the Dubai World Trade Centre, Emirates Towers, and metro stations, reflecting the city’s futuristic aspirations.
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2. Al Ras
Step back in time with a 15-kilometre heritage trail through historic and waterfront areas. This pathway will include green spaces, public displays, and plenty of spots to soak in Dubai’s rich cultural legacy.
A 3-Phase Plan For A Walkable Dubai
The implementation of Dubai Walk will be rolled out in three phases:
- Focus on key areas such as Al Barsha 2, Al Khawaneej 2, and Al Mizhar 1.
- Expand to cover 160 neighborhoods across residential, urban, and tourist zones.
- Connect the entire city with 6,500 kilometres of pathways by 2040, including upgrades to 2,300 kilometres of existing paths and 900 kilometres of new routes planned post-2040.
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Bridging Communities
The plan also includes pathways for residential areas, urban districts, and tourist hotspots. Some highlights are three major bridges:
- Al Ittihad Street: Connecting Al Nahda and Al Mamzar.
- Tripoli Street: Linking Al Warqa and Mirdif.
- Dubai-Al Ain Road: Connecting Dubai Silicon Oasis and Dubailand.
By 2040, Dubai aims to establish 6,500 kilometres of interconnected pathways, of which 3,300 kilometres will be new, while 2,300 kilometres will be upgraded. An additional 900 kilometres will be added after 2040.
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Walk, Track & Earn
To encourage more people to embrace walking, a smart app will be launched. This app will track your steps, walking routes, and time spent walking. What’s more, you’ll earn points that can be redeemed for discounts or credit in an e-wallet! The app will also guide you to nearby attractions, events, and art displays, making walking more fun and rewarding.
A Vision For Better Mobility In The City
The ‘Dubai Walk’ is part of Dubai’s 20-minute city plan, where by 2040, residents will be able to reach daily essentials within a 20-minute walk or bike ride. Other mobility options will include:
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- Dedicated cycling tracks.
- Expanding metro lines.
- Water taxis.
- Future-ready flying taxis on aerial routes.
A City For Health & Happiness
Sheikh Mohammed’s vision for Dubai is clear: to create a city where people enjoy the healthiest, happiest, and most balanced lifestyles. With the ‘Dubai Walk’ project, the emirate is taking a giant stride towards building a sustainable, pedestrian-friendly urban environment that caters to everyone.
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