Dubai Unveils ‘Dubai Walk’ to Create 3,300 km Pedestrian Network
The “Dubai Walk” initiative, which intends to establish an extensive walking network across the emirate, has elevated Dubai’s goal of becoming a more pedestrian-friendly metropolis to new heights. Part of Dubai’s larger plan to promote sustainable living and enhance urban mobility, the program was unveiled on December 7.
The UAE’s vice president, prime minister, and ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, unveiled the plan via X, describing a vast network of 3,300 km of pedestrian paths that will cross the city. In order to ensure pedestrian comfort even in the hot temperature of the area, the project incorporates cooling systems into the pathways, making walking a feasible and comfortable option all year round.
The “Dubai Walk” project will begin in two significant locations: the futuristic Museum of the Future and the historical Al Ras area. At the Museum of the Future, a 2 km bridge and climate-controlled walkways will connect major hubs such as the Dubai World Trade Centre, Emirates Towers, and the Dubai International Financial Centre, showcasing the city’s modern vision
. In contrast, the Al Ras area will feature a 15 km trail that explores Dubai’s rich heritage, offering visitors a chance to experience historical landmarks and waterfront views, enhanced with green spaces and public art displays.
The plan for the walking network will unfold in three phases. The first phase would eventually include 160 neighborhoods, with a concentration on high-priority locations such Al Barsha 2, Al Khawaneej 2, and Al Mizhar 1. 150 km of rural and mountainous pedestrian walkways, 124 km of green walking trails, 112 km of shoreline pathways, and 110 pedestrian bridges and tunnels are among the major infrastructure projects. The initiative will build about 6,500 km of connected walkways by 2040, with 3,300 km of new paths and 2,300 km of repaired pathways.
Three significant bridges will also be constructed to link important parts of the city. These include the bridges that connect Al Nahda and Al Mamzar on Al Ittihad Street, Al Warqa and Mirdif on Tripoli Street, and Dubai Silicon Oasis and Dubailand on the Dubai-Al Ain Road.
A new smart application will also accompany the initiative, designed to promote walking among residents and visitors. The app will track users’ walking routes, steps, and duration, rewarding them with points that can be redeemed for discounts or credits. It will also offer information on local events and attractions, making walking not only a healthy activity but a fun and engaging one.
This project is a key part of Dubai’s long-term vision to transform the city into a 20-minute urban center by 2040, allowing residents to access essential services, work, and leisure spots within a short walking or cycling distance. Sheikh Mohammed emphasized that the goal is to create a city where residents enjoy the highest quality of life—healthy, happy, and connected through innovative transport options like walking, cycling, water taxis, and even flying taxis. The “Dubai Walk” project is a significant step toward redefining the city’s infrastructure, enhancing mobility, and improving the overall quality of life for residents.