Dubai Municipality has begun installing a new lighting system along Dubai Creek under the directive of Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai.
The AED80 million project will extend across eight kilometres of the Creek and is scheduled for completion in the first quarter of 2027.
The project covers six areas: Creek Quay, the Creek Promenade at the Gold Souq, the Creek entrance at Infinity Bridge, Al Shindagha Historic District, Bur Dubai Souq, and Al Seef Marina.
It will feature more than 5,000 lighting units, with the scheme visible from more than 1,500 feet above ground level. The lighting has been designed to reflect the distinct character of each zone, from traditional markets and waterfront walkways to historic buildings and architectural landmarks.
“Dubai Creek has served throughout the emirate’s history as a vital artery for trade and commerce and as the starting point of Dubai’s urban and economic development. It remains a landmark that has witnessed defining moments in the city’s growth and transformation. Through the Dubai Creek Lights project, we are bringing part of that journey back to life along its banks. The project will celebrate the Creek’s cultural heritage, showcase its urban identity and present it through a distinctive nighttime experience for residents and visitors. It reflects our commitment to making Dubai the world’s most beautiful and attractive city through an urban vision that preserves local identity while embracing advanced urban solutions,” Eng. Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita, Director General of Dubai Municipality said in a statement.
“Dubai Creek Lights is a landmark project that will transform the Creek into an exceptional nighttime destination combining architectural beauty, history and culture. The project will deliver an integrated lighting system using advanced technologies and engineering solutions tailored to the architectural and heritage characteristics of each area. The lighting has been designed to highlight waterfronts, traditional markets and historic buildings while ensuring visual comfort, enhancing pedestrian safety and elevating the overall nighttime experience,” Bader Anwahi, CEO of the Public Facilities Agency at Dubai Municipality added.
The works will include upgrades to promenade lighting, Creek entrances, building façades and waterfront walkways. The municipality says sustainable lighting solutions have been incorporated to limit environmental impact on marine life in the Creek.
The project is positioned as aligned with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan and the Dubai Quality of Life Strategy 2033.
Dubai was named the World’s Most Beautiful City at Night for 2026 in a global study assessing factors including safety, the quality of the nighttime urban experience, the diversity of evening attractions and the visual appeal of the urban environment.
The municipality cited that recognition as part of the context for the Creek Lights investment.
