Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has awarded the contract for Phase I of the Dubai Walk Master Plan in Al Ras, marking a major step in the emirate’s initiative to become a pedestrian-friendly city year-round.
Phase I focuses on the Historic Al Ras Walkway, featuring 12 km of pedestrian pathways and 5 km of cycling tracks. The project also includes the rehabilitation of 10 artistic spaces in coordination with the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, with contributions from Emirati and local artists.
The walkway will connect key heritage landmarks, including Al Ahmadiya School, Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House, Al Ras Public Library, Al Fahidi Fort, and Al Shindagha Historic District, while integrating with 11 metro, bus, and marine transport stations to improve first- and last-mile connectivity.
The project aims to enhance walkway infrastructure, strengthen soft mobility, and integrate cultural and artistic elements, aligning with Dubai Urban Plan 2040 and the city’s Quality of Life Strategy 2033.
HE Mattar Al Tayer Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors RTA
“The Pedestrian Master Plan is central to Dubai’s global competitiveness in walkway infrastructure and soft mobility. It also advances the Dubai Urban Plan 2040 objective of the 20-minute city, enabling residents to access more than 80% of essential services within a 20-minute journey. The plan enhances community well-being, pedestrian safety, and inter-district connectivity while integrating creative and cultural dimensions into soft mobility infrastructure.”
Comprehensive connectivity and urban integration
The Dubai Walk Pedestrian Master Plan is designed to deliver a fully integrated, accessible walkway network across 160 areas of the emirate, ultimately enhancing 6,000 km of walkways by 2040.
The initiative also includes the construction of 110 pedestrian bridges and underpasses to strengthen urban connectivity, with first-phase projects scheduled between 2025 and 2027 and subsequent phases through 2040.
Phase I focuses on creating a safe, comfortable, and culturally rich pedestrian environment. Walkway enhancements include widened pavements, shaded areas, expanded green spaces, seating, interactive wayfinding, and misting systems to mitigate heat.
Artistic installations, advanced architectural lighting, and seasonal programming will reinforce the cultural and visual identity of Al Ras while activating public spaces.
Promoting mobility, culture, and community
In addition to improving pedestrian mobility, the project prioritizes barrier-free access, smart navigation integration, and provision of recreational and fitness amenities.
Commercial investment zones along the walkways will further contribute to economic and social vibrancy. The plan is also designed to encourage walking and cycling, aiming to increase soft mobility trips from 16 percent in 2025 to 25 percent by 2040.
