Dubai Walk: Dubai to build 6,000 km of pedestrian walkways

Dubai has begun implementing a large-scale project to develop pedestrian infrastructure, Dubai Walk. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has awarded the first contract under a comprehensive plan which provides the creation of an integrated network of pedestrian routes across the city.

The first phase of the project will be implemented in the historic Al Ras district. It is planned to create 12 kilometers of pedestrian routes, lay 5 kilometers of cycling tracks, and renovate 10 public spaces with the participation of local and Emirati artists. The project provides careful preservation of the district’s historical appearance using solutions that correspond to its architectural and cultural context.

The initiative is part of the long-term urban development strategy Dubai Urban Plan 2040, under which Dubai aims to become one of the most pedestrian-friendly cities in the world. The key goal is the formation of the so-called “20-minute city,” where more than 80% of essential services are accessible to residents within a short trip or walking distance.

The Dubai Walk master plan covers 160 areas of the emirate and provides for the creation of more than 6,000 kilometers of pedestrian walkways by 2040. It also includes the construction of 110 pedestrian bridges and tunnels, which will improve connectivity between urban areas and eliminate barriers between districts.

As part of the project, a historic pedestrian route will be created in Al Ras, connecting key cultural and tourist sites, including Al Ahmadiya School, Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House, Al Ras Public Library, Al Fahidi Fort, and Al Shindagha Historic District. The spaces will be adapted for comfortable movement: wider pavements, shaded pathways, seating areas, landscaping, and intuitive navigation are planned.
Special attention is given to integration with public transport. The pedestrian routes will be connected to 11 metro, bus, and marine transport stations, ensuring an efficient first- and last-mile system and increasing the attractiveness of public transport.

The project also includes the introduction of smart urban infrastructure elements, including digital navigation, interactive routes, and mobile services with up-to-date information for users. To improve comfort in a hot climate, shading systems, cooling solutions, and green corridors will be used.

A separate focus will be on the development of public and cultural spaces. In Al Ras, 10 locations are planned to be upgraded with the placement of art objects, including murals, sculptures, and light installations. Implementation will be carried out in cooperation with the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority.

According to authorities, the project will increase the share of pedestrian and individual trips from 16% in 2025 to 25% by 2040. In a broader context, the program is aimed at improving the quality of the urban environment, developing sustainable mobility, and increasing economic activity through the growth of tourism and trade.

The first phase of the project is scheduled for the period from 2025 to 2027. Further development of the pedestrian network will gradually expand to other areas of Dubai up to 2040.
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