By Staff Reporter
Dubai, UAE – June 16, 2026: Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has approved an ambitious plan to construct 31 new pedestrian bridges and tunnels across the emirate between 2026 and 2030, further strengthening the city’s commitment to safe, sustainable, and pedestrian-friendly mobility.
The locations were selected following extensive technical and field studies that assessed population density, connectivity to public transport networks, and proximity to major tourist, commercial, and residential destinations. Key roads included in the project are Sheikh Zayed Road, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street, Al Ittihad Road, and Omar bin Al Khattab Street.
According to Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the RTA, Dubai’s pedestrian infrastructure has witnessed remarkable growth 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 585% expansion.
Al Tayer highlighted the significant impact of these developments on road safety, noting that the pedestrian fatality rate dropped from 9.5 deaths per 100,000 people in 2007 to just 0.22 in 2025—a decline of approximately 98%.
The RTA has recently completed three new pedestrian bridges. Two major crossings over Sheikh Zayed Road and Al Khail Road serve pedestrians, cyclists, and e-scooter users travelling between Al Sufouh, Dubai Hills, and nearby communities. Each structure extends more than 500 metres and features distinctive architectural designs. A third bridge on Al Manara Street enhances connectivity within the Al Quoz Creative Zone.
Construction is also underway on three additional bridges, including two of the largest pedestrian and cycling crossings in Dubai. One spans 554 metres, linking Muhaisnah 1 and Al Twar, while another stretches 730 metres across Dubai-Al Ain Road, connecting Liwan and Dubai Silicon Oasis. All three projects are scheduled for completion by early 2027.
The latest expansion comes as demand for active mobility continues to rise. Between 2024 and 2025, pedestrian trips increased by 6%, while cycling trips surged by 23%. Resident satisfaction with Dubai’s pedestrian facilities currently stands at 88%, reflecting growing public support for safer and more accessible urban transport infrastructure.
Source: Dubai Media Office
