The city that keeps upgrading, and this time, Dubai isn’t just thinking ahead; it’s thinking 10 years ahead. Under the Dubai 10X Initiative, three bold, life-improving projects have been officially approved, all designed to save time, reduce stress, improve health, and make daily life in Dubai smoother than ever. Approved by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, these projects aim to push Dubai a full decade ahead of other global cities by adopting futuristic government models. What does this mean for you? Keep reading to find out!
Also Read: 8 Major Changes Coming To UAE In 2026
Here’s Everything You Need To Know About The Dubai 10X Initiative
In line with His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s vision for Dubai, the Dubai 10 X Initiative envisions a Dubai 10 years ahead of the world. This means Dubai is focused on advancing into the future, implementing ideas today that other cities won’t consider for another 10 years. These three projects were selected from 79 proposals, created by 120+ government employees across 33 Dubai government entities, and judged on:
- Speed of implementation
- Real impact on daily life
- Long-term benefits for residents
Projects Approved By Sheikh Hamdan Under The Dubai 10X Initiative
1) 20-Minute City – Making Your Daily Essentials Accessible
First announced in 2023, the 20-Minute City concept has been officially approved. The idea? Residents should be able to access 80% of daily essentials, such as schools, clinics, shops, parks and transport, within 20 minutes of walking, cycling, or using sustainable transport.
What This Means For Dubai
- Less reliance on cars
- Safer, more walkable neighbourhoods
- More green spaces
- Flexible mobility corridors
The pilot phase is already underway in Al Barsha 2, with initiatives like the Dubai Walk Master Plan helping bring the vision to life.
2) City Terminal Project – Check In Before You Even Reach The Airport!
Last-minute packer? Forgot to check in online? Airport queues making you break out in a cold sweat? Then this project is for you. The City Terminal Project will allow travellers to complete airport check-in procedures at locations across Dubai, before being transported directly to departure halls in secure, dedicated vehicles.
What This Means For Dubai
- Cuts down airport congestion
- Streamlines travel operations
- Improves passenger experience
This project will play a key role as Dubai prepares for the future transition from DXB to Al Maktoum International Airport. It’s being developed in partnership with major partners, including Dubai Police, Emirates, Dubai Airports, GDRFA Dubai, and e& Group.
3) Disease Early Detection System – A Smarter Way To Live Healthy
Health tech in Dubai is getting a serious upgrade. Led by the Dubai Health Authority, this project focuses on early disease detection, better treatment outcomes, and lower healthcare costs. The pilot phase is currently targeting diabetes, which costs Dubai an estimated AED 2.78 billion annually.
What This Means For Dubai
- Earlier diagnosis leading to a better quality of life
- Less invasive treatments
- Reduced long-term healthcare costs
The initiative spans multiple hospitals and clinics, including:
- Canadian Specialist Hospital
- Aster Clinics
- King’s College Hospital London
- Medcare Hospital
- HMS Mirdif Hospital
The Bigger Picture – Less Hassle, Smarter Systems & Better Living
As Dubai moves toward a more futuristic city, these projects demonstrate how. Smarter cities, healthier people, and a future that actually feels exciting. From walkable neighbourhoods to smoother travel and proactive healthcare, the Dubai 10X Initiative isn’t about small upgrades; it’s about rewriting how a city works. If you’d like to stay updated on the latest advancements shaping Dubai, keep reading Gulf Buzz! For more information on the Dubai 10X Initiative, visit the official website.
