Dubai Moving Towards Pedestrian-Friendly City Concept

Dubai is set to embark on an ambitious journey to transform itself into a "pedestrian-friendly" city, with the goal of connecting neighborhoods, encouraging healthier lifestyles, and improving mobility. This transformation is part of the Dubai Walk project, which aims to create over 3,000 km of new walkways and 110 bridges and tunnels. The project, which will unfold from 2025 to 2040, could also boost public transport by linking pedestrian routes to existing infrastructure. However, some challenges remain, including sustainability concerns, the harsh summer heat, and making the city walkable in an environment built for cars.

Why Dubai Needs a Pedestrian-Friendly Transformation

For decades, Dubai has been built around cars. Many of its neighborhoods lack pedestrian paths, shaded areas, and walkways, making it difficult for people to navigate the city on foot. However, with a rapidly growing population and increasing interest in healthier, active lifestyles, there is a push to make Dubai more walkable.

The city’s bold plan to boost walking aligns with global trends seen in cities like New York, Paris, and Seoul, where previously underused or derelict spaces have been reclaimed for pedestrian use. Dubai is taking inspiration from these successful models and hopes to make walking a more attractive option for its residents.

The Dubai Walk Project: A Step Towards a Healthier Future

The Dubai Walk initiative aims to integrate over 3,000 km of new pedestrian pathways into the city’s urban fabric, linking neighborhoods that have traditionally been hard to reach by foot. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, outlined the ambitious plan, which will include both elevated paths and air-conditioned zones to make walking more comfortable even during the hot summer months.

The pilot phase will run from 2025 to 2027, with full completion expected by 2040. The goal is to increase the use of pedestrian and environmentally friendly transportation from 13% to 25%. Two main routes have already been highlighted for development: one along the Dubai Creek area and another "future loop" around the Museum of the Future, connecting key landmarks such as the Dubai World Trade Centre and Emirates Towers.

The Challenges of Making Dubai More Walkable

Creating a pedestrian-friendly city in a car-centric environment comes with challenges. Many of Dubai's streets were originally designed for vehicles, not pedestrians. Issues such as limited shaded areas, long crossing times at intersections, and the city's extreme summer heat can make walking less appealing.

Experts suggest that small improvements, like adding shade and enhancing pedestrian safety, can have a significant impact. Additionally, connecting pedestrian paths to public transport systems, such as the Dubai Metro and bus routes, is seen as crucial for encouraging more people to walk.

Monica Menendez, a professor of civil and urban engineering at New York University Abu Dhabi, believes the Dubai Walk project could help normalize walking as a daily mode of transport and integrate it with the public transport system. She emphasizes the importance of connectivity between pedestrian paths and stations, which would make walking part of the daily commute, not just for leisure or exercise.

Global Examples of Successful Pedestrian Projects

Dubai isn’t the only city transforming its urban landscape to prioritize pedestrians. Projects like the High Line in New York and Seoul’s Skygarden are examples of how cities are revitalizing old, underused spaces for public enjoyment. These elevated parks not only improve the quality of life but also create new opportunities for business and tourism. In Dubai, similar projects could help invigorate neighborhoods, enhance safety, and promote social inclusion by bridging gaps that cars often create.

Paulo Anciaes, a senior researcher in transport at University College London, points out that cities are increasingly focusing on improving pedestrian conditions to enhance mobility and quality of life. With its significant population and resources, Dubai has the potential to become a global leader in pedestrian infrastructure.

Addressing Sustainability and the Summer Heat

One of the biggest challenges to creating a pedestrian-friendly Dubai is the summer heat. Temperatures often exceed 40°C (104°F), which can make walking outdoors unbearable. However, experts suggest using native trees, such as the ghaf and sidr, which require less water and can withstand the heat, to increase tree cover and provide natural shade.

Shading is considered a basic solution to the heat, but there are also innovative ways to cool public spaces. Rather than relying on outdoor air conditioning, authorities can explore passive cooling strategies, such as creating more shaded walkways and incorporating cooling breezes to make walking more comfortable.

The comprehensive plan for enhancing pedestrian pathways, #DubaiWalk.
A 6,500 km network of modern walkways covering 160 areas across the emirate. The plan includes constructing 3,300 km of new walkways and rehabilitating 2,300 km of existing ones by 2040, in addition to more… pic.twitter.com/PSzWf92lXI

— RTA (@rta_dubai) December 10, 2024

The Future of Walking in Dubai

The Dubai Walk project is a significant step forward in creating a more sustainable, active, and livable city. By reducing the dominance of cars, promoting public transport, and encouraging walking, Dubai is positioning itself to meet the needs of its growing population while improving the overall quality of life.

With the right planning, investment, and innovative solutions to overcome challenges like the summer heat, Dubai could soon become a city where walking is not just a mode of transportation, but a way of life. Whether it’s walking to work, exploring the city’s landmarks, or enjoying public parks, the future of Dubai is set to be more pedestrian-friendly than ever before.