RTA Expands Dubai's Pedestrian Infrastructure Network

Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced the launch of a large-scale program to develop pedestrian infrastructure. Between 2026 and 2030, 31 new pedestrian bridges and tunnels are planned for construction across the emirate's key thoroughfares.

The project aims to enhance road safety, improve access to public transport, and create a more comfortable urban environment for residents and tourists.

This initiative comes amid Dubai's significant achievements in transport safety. Over the past 18 years, the number of pedestrian fatalities has decreased by 98%, while the number of pedestrian trips has reached over 326 million annually.

New Crossings to Be Built on City's Major Roads

The construction of new facilities is scheduled for Dubai's most in-demand transport corridors.

Key locations include:

• Sheikh Zayed Road;
• King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street;
• Al Ittihad Road;
• Omar bin Al Khattab Street.

When selecting locations, experts considered population density, the proximity of residential areas, tourist attractions, metro stations, and other transport hubs.

According to the RTA, the new crossings will become part of a unified urban mobility system, enabling residents to move more quickly and safely between residential areas, business centers, and public transport.

Dubai's Pedestrian Crossing Network Grows by 585%

In recent years, the development of pedestrian infrastructure has become a key priority of the emirate's transport strategy.

While in 2006, the city had only 26 pedestrian bridges and tunnels, by the end of 2025, their number reached 178 facilities. This represents a 585% growth in the infrastructure network.

Following the implementation of the new program, the number of crossings will increase even further, ensuring safe pedestrian movement even in areas with heavy vehicular traffic.

The RTA notes that the development of modern infrastructure is directly linked to a reduction in accidents. During this period, the pedestrian mortality rate decreased from 9.5 cases per 100,000 residents in 2007 to 0.22 cases in 2025.

Popularity of Walking and Cycling Continues to Grow

Dubai authorities are observing a steady increase in residents' interest in alternative modes of transport.

The number of pedestrian trips increased from 307 million in 2023 to over 326 million in 2025.

At the same time, the popularity of cycling is growing. Over the past year, the number of bicycle trips increased by 23% — from 46.6 million to 57.3 million trips.

Today, resident satisfaction with the quality of Dubai's pedestrian infrastructure stands at 88%, confirming the effectiveness of ongoing projects.

The growing popularity of walking and cycling aligns with the emirate's strategy for developing sustainable and eco-friendly transport.

New modern bridges for pedestrians and cyclists have already opened.

RTA recently completed the construction of three new crossings designed for both pedestrians and cyclists.

Two major structures on Sheikh Zayed Road and Al Khail Road garnered particular attention.

The new bridges are equipped with separate lanes for:

• pedestrians;
• cyclists;
• e-scooter users.

They provide convenient connectivity between the areas of Al Sufouh, Dubai Internet City, Barsha Heights, Al Barsha and Dubai Hills.

The 528-meter-long bridge over Sheikh Zayed Road features a modern architectural concept, symbolizing movement and urban connectivity.

The 501-meter-long crossing over Al Khail Road boasts a unique design inspired by the interplay of light and the dynamism of the metropolis.

Another structure was built in the Al Quoz Creative Zone to improve accessibility and ease of movement within the creative cluster.

The largest new-generation crossings are currently under construction.

Concurrently, work continues on three more large-scale projects.

One of the largest pedestrian and cycling bridges will be built at the intersection of Tunis Street and Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road. It will connect the districts of Muhaisnah 1 and Al Twar, and will also provide more convenient access to Al Mamzar Beach.

Another 730-meter-long crossing will be built over Dubai-Al Ain Road and will connect Liwan in the district of Wadi Al Safa 4 with Nad Hessa in Dubai Silicon Oasis.

Construction is also ongoing for a new crossing on Al Sukook Street as part of the Al Mustaqbal Street development. Its completion is scheduled for the first quarter of 2027.

Safety remains a top priority

The RTA emphasizes that the development of pedestrian infrastructure is part of a long-term strategy to enhance road safety.

The main goal of the program is to achieve zero road fatalities in Dubai.

To achieve this, authorities continue to invest in building modern crossings, developing cycling routes, and improving urban navigation.

This approach allows Dubai to maintain its status as one of the safest cities in the world for pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists.

What this means for Dubai's real estate market

Large-scale infrastructure projects traditionally have a positive impact on the real estate market.

Developing pedestrian and cycling networks makes areas more livable, enhances the quality of the urban environment, and improves transportation accessibility for residential communities.

Such projects are particularly important for areas located near metro stations, business centers, and large public spaces.

For property buyers, the presence of modern transport infrastructure becomes a key factor in choosing a home, and for investors, it's an additional argument for the long-term growth in property value.

Furthermore, the development of a comfortable urban environment helps attract new residents and international professionals, which supports sustainable demand for real estate in the emirate.

Conclusion

The construction of 31 new pedestrian bridges and tunnels will be an important step in the development of Dubai's transport infrastructure. The project will not only enhance road safety but also help create a more convenient, eco-friendly, and connected urban environment.

Amidst the growing popularity of walking and cycling, Dubai continues to invest in the quality of life for its residents. For the real estate market, such initiatives are further confirmation of the emirate's long-term development strategy and its commitment to remaining one of the most comfortable cities in the world for living, working, and investing.