Dubai Urban Walkways Master Plan contract awarded for Phase I of the Dubai Walk pedestrian project by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), advancing efforts to make Dubai a more walkable city.
Contract Awarded for Phase I
Dubai’s RTA has awarded the contract for Phase I of the Dubai Urban Walkways Master Plan, known locally as Dubai Walk, focused on the Historic Al Ras Walkway in the Al Ras district. This first stage will create 12 kilometres of pedestrian walkways and 5 kilometres of dedicated cycling tracks. The scope also includes the rehabilitation of 10 artistic spaces developed in coordination with the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, featuring works by Emirati and local artists.
RTA Director-General Mattar Al Tayer described the project as pivotal to enhancing Dubai’s pedestrian infrastructure and soft mobility options, supporting strategic urban goals.
Linking Heritage and Transport
The Historic Al Ras Walkway will connect key cultural and heritage destinations in the area, including Al Ahmadiya School, Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House, Al Ras Public Library, Al Fahidi Fort and the Al Shindagha Historic District. The pedestrian network will integrate with existing public transport, improving first- and last-mile connectivity by linking to 11 metro, bus and marine transport stations.
Upgrades in the Al Ras district will include widened footpaths, shaded routes, seating areas and enhanced wayfinding systems designed to complement the historic character of the neighbourhood.
Strategic Urban Vision
The broader Dubai Urban Walkways Master Plan envisages a comprehensive citywide network spanning 6,000 kilometres across 160 areas by 2040. This includes the construction of 110 pedestrian bridges and underpasses to strengthen connectivity between districts and improve mobility options for residents and visitors. The plan aims to raise the share of walking and soft mobility trips from 16 per cent in 2025 to 25 per cent by 2040.
Phase I construction is planned between 2025 and 2027, with subsequent phases rolling out progressively through 2040. The initiative supports the Dubai Urban Plan 2040 “20-minute city” objective, which seeks to ensure that more than 80 per cent of essential services can be reached within a 20-minute journey by walking, cycling or using public transport.
Dubai Urban Walkways Master Plan reflects Dubai’s commitment to enhancing the quality of life, promoting sustainable urban mobility and creating pedestrian-friendly environments that connect heritage sites, transport hubs and public spaces
