By Desmond Nleya
Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has approved a major infrastructure plan to build 31 new pedestrian bridges and tunnels across the emirate between 2026 and 2030, further advancing the city’s vision of becoming a safer, more accessible, and pedestrian-friendly urban destination.
The locations for the new crossings were selected following extensive technical and field studies that assessed population density, proximity to tourism and economic hubs, and integration with public transport networks. The project will focus on key roads including Sheikh Zayed Road, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street, Al Ittihad Road, and Omar bin Al Khattab Street.
According to RTA Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors, Mattar Al Tayer, Dubai’s pedestrian bridge network has expanded significantly over the past two decades, growing from 26 bridges and tunnels in 2006 to 178 by the end of 2025—an increase of 585 percent. This expansion has played a vital role in improving road safety, contributing to a 98 percent reduction in pedestrian fatalities, from 9.5 deaths per 100,000 residents in 2007 to just 0.22 in 2025.
The RTA recently completed three new pedestrian crossings. Two of these span Sheikh Zayed Road and Al Khail Road, providing safe access for pedestrians, cyclists, and e-scooter users in Al Sufouh, Dubai Hills, and surrounding communities. Each structure exceeds 500 metres in length and features distinctive architectural designs. A third bridge on Al Manara Street improves connectivity within the Al Quoz Creative Zone.
Construction is also underway on three additional crossings, including two of the largest pedestrian and cycling bridges in Dubai. One, measuring 554 metres, will connect Muhaisnah 1 and Al Twar, while another, stretching 730 metres, will link Liwan with Dubai Silicon Oasis across Dubai-Al Ain Road. All three projects are scheduled for completion by early 2027.
Dubai continues to witness growing demand for active mobility options. Resident satisfaction with pedestrian infrastructure has reached 88 percent, while pedestrian trips increased by 6 percent and cycling trips rose by 23 percent between 2024 and 2025.
The latest expansion reflects Dubai’s ongoing commitment to sustainable transport, enhanced road safety, and improved quality of life for residents and visitors alike.
Source: Dubai Media Office
