Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority has greenlit an ambitious five-year infrastructure plan to construct 31 pedestrian bridges and tunnels across the emirate between 2026 and 2030, reinforcing Dubai's push to become a safer, more walkable city.
Sites were chosen based on technical and field studies weighing population density, proximity to tourist and economic destinations, and connectivity with public transport. Key corridors in the plan include Sheikh Zayed Road, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street, Al Ittihad Road and Omar bin Al Khattab Street.
RTA Director General Mattar Al Tayer noted that Dubai's pedestrian bridge network has grown from just 26 structures in 2006 to 178 by the end of 2025, a 585% increase. He credited the expansion with a dramatic improvement in road safety, with the pedestrian fatality rate dropping from 9.5 deaths per 100,000 people in 2007 to 0.22 in 2025, a decline of 98%.
Three bridges have recently been completed. Two span Sheikh Zayed Road and Al Khail Road, serving pedestrians, cyclists and e-scooter users across Al Sufouh, Dubai Hills and surrounding areas. Both stretch over 500 metres in length and feature architecturally distinct designs. A third, shorter bridge on Al Manara Street supports movement within the Al Quoz Creative Zone.
Three more bridges are currently under construction, including two of Dubai's largest pedestrian and cycling crossings. One links Muhaisnah 1 with Al Twar at 554 metres, while another crosses Dubai-Al Ain Road at 730 metres, connecting Liwan with Dubai Silicon Oasis. All three are expected to be completed by early 2027.
Resident satisfaction with Dubai's pedestrian infrastructure currently stands at 88%, with pedestrian trips rising 6% and cycling trips surging 23% between 2024 and 2025.
News Source: Dubai Media Office
