Post by : Shakul
Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has approved an ambitious five-year plan covering the construction of 31 new pedestrian bridges and tunnels across key locations in the emirate between 2026 and 2030. The initiative aims to improve pedestrian safety, enhance connectivity and encourage sustainable modes of transport.
The locations were selected after extensive technical and field studies that considered population density, land use, tourist attractions, economic centers and access to public transportation networks.
Focus On Safety And Sustainable Mobility
According to Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of RTA, the project reflects Dubai’s commitment to creating a safe, sustainable and pedestrian-friendly urban environment.
The expansion supports the emirate’s broader vision of improving quality of life, reducing traffic risks and encouraging residents and visitors to use walking and cycling for short-distance travel.
Pedestrian Network Expands Rapidly
Dubai has witnessed remarkable growth in its pedestrian infrastructure over the past two decades. The number of pedestrian bridges and tunnels increased from 26 in 2006 to 178 by the end of 2025, representing a growth of 585 percent.
The new bridges planned by 2030 will be strategically located along major roads including Sheikh Zayed Road, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street, Al Ittihad Road and Omar bin Al Khattab Street.
Road Safety Indicators Show Major Improvement
RTA highlighted that pedestrian bridges have significantly improved road safety across Dubai. The pedestrian fatality rate dropped from 9.5 deaths per 100,000 residents in 2007 to just 0.22 in 2025, reflecting a decline of 98 percent.
Public satisfaction with pedestrian facilities has also reached 88 percent, while pedestrian and cycling trips have continued to rise as more residents adopt active mobility options.
Recently Completed Landmark Bridges
The authority recently completed three major pedestrian and cycling bridges, including two iconic structures crossing Sheikh Zayed Road and Al Khail Road. These bridges connect important districts such as Al Sufouh, Dubai Internet City, Barsha Heights, Al Barsha and Dubai Hills.
Designed with modern architectural concepts, the bridges feature dedicated tracks for cyclists and e-scooters alongside pedestrian pathways, creating an integrated mobility experience.
Major Projects Currently Under Construction
Three additional pedestrian bridges are currently under construction, including two of the largest pedestrian and cycling bridges in Dubai. One bridge on Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road will connect Muhaisnah 1, Al Twar and Al Mamzar Beach, while another on Dubai-Al Ain Road will link Liwan and Dubai Silicon Oasis.
A third bridge is being developed as part of the Al Mustaqbal Street Development Project and is expected to be completed during the first quarter of 2027.
Supporting Dubai’s Vision For Zero Fatalities
The new infrastructure projects form a key part of Dubai’s Traffic Safety Strategy, which aims to achieve zero road fatalities and position the city among the safest in the world.
RTA stated that the bridges will incorporate advanced safety systems, including fire protection, monitoring technologies and smart operational features, while selected bridges will also include bicycle parking and dedicated cycling lanes to support greener urban mobility.
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