A bird’s eye view of Dubai’s roads.
Dubai has taken a significant step towards redefining its urban landscape by approving new initiatives under the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan. This comprehensive plan, which aims to guide the city’s development over the next two decades, focuses on the following —
- Enhancing infrastructure and mobility
- Promoting sustainability and innovation
The Supreme Committee for Urban Planning recently reviewed the progress of the first phase of the Master Plan, which emphasizes the efficient use of existing urban spaces. The initiatives include —
- Expanding pedestrian pathways
- Increasing bicycle lanes
- Improving public transport accessibility
- Ensuring that residents can move seamlessly throughout the city.
The Master Plan aims for 80% of the population to live within 800 meters of a main public transport station, significantly enhancing connectivity.
One of the key highlights of the 2040 plan is the substantial increase in land designated for various activities. The area allocated for hotels and tourism is set to rise by 134%, while commercial activities will expand to cover 168 square kilometers. This expansion is expected to boost the local economy and attract more tourists, further solidifying Dubai’s position as a global hotspot for business and leisure.
Additionally, the Master Plan prioritizes sustainability with initiatives to —
- Facilitate the movement of pedestrians and cyclists
- Promote a healthier lifestyle
- Reduce reliance on cars
- Integrate green spaces & environmentally friendly infrastructure
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the UAE’s Vice President and Prime Minister, emphasized the importance of these initiatives in creating a competitive and sustainable city. He stated that the plan is designed to —
- Balance supply and demand in the realty market
- Boost investor confidence
The 2040 Urban Master Plan aims to —
- Create a vibrant, interconnected, and sustainable urban environment that meets the needs of Dubai’s expanding population
- Pave the way for a more dynamic and livable metropolis
