Dubai Approves Expansion of Pedestrian Network with 31 New Bridges by 2030
The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has authorized a five-year infrastructure plan to construct 31 additional pedestrian bridges and tunnels by 2030. The expansion, developed through field studies of population density and land use, integrates residential zones with public transport and major economic hubs.
Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the RTA, stated the initiative is intended to facilitate soft mobility and enhance traffic safety. Since 2006, the city’s pedestrian infrastructure has expanded from 26 crossings to 178 by the end of 2025. Data provided by the authority indicates that the pedestrian fatality rate in Dubai decreased from 9.5 per 100,000 population in 2007 to 0.22 in 2025.
The upcoming projects will target high-traffic corridors, including Sheikh Zayed Road, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street, Al Ittihad Road, and Omar bin Al Khattab Street.
Recent completions include three crossings on Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Khail Road, and Al Manara Street. These structures incorporate dedicated tracks for cyclists and e-scooters, measuring 3 metres in width for mobility devices alongside a 2-metre pedestrian walkway.
Three further projects remain under construction with completion scheduled for the first quarter of 2027. The first, located on Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road at the Tunis Street–Al Nahda intersection, is a 554-metre bridge linking Muhaisnah 1 and Al Twar. The second project is a 730-metre bridge crossing the Dubai–Al Ain Road, connecting Wadi Al Safa 4, known as Liwan, with Nad Hessa. The third, located on Al Sukook Street, is a 44-metre structure integrated into the Central Business District.
The RTA reports these efforts have coincided with a 6% increase in pedestrian trips between 2023 and 2025, and a 23% increase in cycling trips from 2024 to 2025. The new structures feature standardized safety systems, including fire-fighting equipment, remote monitoring, and electromechanical alarms, as part of the city’s broader strategy to reduce traffic-related fatalities.
Photo credits: Government of Dubai Media Office
Andrew Shelepnytsky Andrew Shelepnytsky is an Editor of Dubai Voice.
Vladyslava Garkusha
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