Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has awarded the contract for Phase I of the Dubai Walk Master Plan in Al Ras, marking the first step in a programme to deliver more than 6,000 kilometres of walkways across the emirate by 2040.
The first phase centres on the Historic Al Ras Walkway, which will comprise 12 kilometres of walkways and five kilometres of cycling tracks. The project will also see the rehabilitation of 10 spaces in coordination with the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, with Emirati and local artists contributing murals and installations.
“The Pedestrian Master Plan plays a key role in strengthening Dubai’s global competitiveness in walkway infrastructure and soft mobility. It also advances a key objective of the Dubai Urban Plan 2040 – the 20-minute city – by providing the infrastructure required to enable residents to access more than 80% of essential services within a 20-minute journey,” Mattar Al Tayer, Director General, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the Roads and Transport Authority said in a statement.
Dubai Walk Master Plan Phase I launched: 12km of walkways, 5km of cycling tracks in Al Ras
The walkway will connect landmarks including Al Ahmadiya School, Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House, Al Ras Public Library, Al Fahidi Fort, and Al Shindagha Historic District. It will be integrated with 11 metro, public bus and marine transport stations to strengthen first- and last-mile journeys and encourage the use of public transport.
The project includes the widening of pavements, the introduction of shading structures, seating areas, green spaces, and a wayfinding system in keeping with the character of the district. Lighting techniques will be applied to highlight the area’s history and cultural identity, and joint programmes and events between the RTA and Dubai Culture and Arts Authority will activate the walkway upon completion.
The broader Pedestrian Master Plan covers a walkway network across 160 areas of Dubai. The first phase of implementation runs from 2025 to 2027, with work continuing in phases through to 2040. The plan aims to increase the share of walking and soft mobility trips from 16% in 2025 to 25% by 2040.
Al Tayer said the plan “supports Dubai’s Quality of Life Strategy 2033 and contributes to enhancing community wellbeing by transforming Dubai into a pedestrian-friendly city, elevating pedestrian safety standards, and strengthening connectivity between various districts and the existing walkway network. It also integrates creative, aesthetic and cultural dimensions into soft mobility components, reinforces the distinctive identity of urban areas to enhance the emirate’s visual landscape, and contributes to the beautification of public spaces across Dubai.”
The plan includes the construction of 110 pedestrian bridges and underpasses. Among those planned are a bridge on Al Ittihad Street linking Al Nahda and Al Mamzar, a bridge on Tripoli Street connecting Al Warqa’a and Mirdif, a bridge on Al Khawaneej Street linking Mushrif and Al Khawaneej, and a bridge on Dubai–Al Ain Road connecting Dubai Silicon Oasis and Dubailand.
Walkway design across the network will incorporate misting systems, digital screens, ground graphics, and fitness equipment. Rest areas and spaces for commercial use will be provided, alongside barrier-free access and a wayfinding system featuring ground markings, directional signage, and sustainable lighting. The walkways will be integrated into navigation systems and smart applications.
Al Tayer added that the plan “strengthens collaboration with strategic partners in advancing creative elements within mobility infrastructure and facilities, while empowering youth and reflecting future mobility trends through their engagement in proposing innovative concepts for the design of walkways and associated amenities.”
