Dubai is about to make walking cool… literally. Forget circling for parking or squeezing into traffic.
Soon you’ll be able to stroll, hop on a bike, or take a breezy walk between metro stops while enjoying the sights. With shady paths, green pockets, and routes that connect historic landmarks to modern hotspots, the city’s making it way easier (and more fun) to get around without a car.
Want instant updates? Follow Lovin on WhatsApp, and never miss a beat!
What’s happening?
Dubai is taking a major step toward becoming one of the world’s most walkable cities. The Roads and Transport Authority has just awarded the first contract under its ambitious Dubai Walk Master Plan, which aims to deliver more than 6,000km of pedestrian pathways across the Emirate by 2040.
The first project kicks off in the historic Al Ras district, signalling the start of a long-term plan to reshape how people move around the city. Walking, cycling, and easy public transport access will take centre stage. Phase I will bring 12km of pedestrian paths and 5km of cycling tracks, all designed to respect the area’s historic charm.
<
#RTA has awarded the contract for Phase I of the Pedestrian Master Plan (Dubai Walk) in Historic Al Ras. The project includes the development of the Historic Al Ras Walkway, comprising 12 km of walkways and 5 km of cycling tracks, and the rehabilitation of 10 artistic spaces in… pic.twitter.com/xeUmHlhk6B
— RTA (@rta_dubai) March 22, 2026
A city built for walking
Dubai Walk is one of the biggest pedestrian infrastructure projects in the world. Beyond new walkways, the plan includes 110 pedestrian bridges and underpasses to make it easier to move between neighbourhoods. The goal? Boost walking and soft mobility trips from 16% in 2025 to 25% by 2040.
Phase I (2025–2027) focuses on high-impact areas like Al Ras, while later phases will expand the network across the entire city.
Reviving Al Ras
The Historic Al Ras Walkway combines mobility with heritage. It will link landmarks such as Al Ahmadiya School, Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House, Al Ras Public Library, Al Fahidi Fort, and Al Shindagha Historic District, creating a continuous heritage route you can stroll through.
Upgrades will keep things simple and authentic, with wider pavements, shaded paths, seating areas, green pockets, and clear wayfinding that complements the traditional architecture.
Connected & smart!
One of the project’s biggest perks is its integration with public transport. The Al Ras walkway will connect to 11 metro, bus, and marine stations, making it easier to combine walking with transit.
The wider Dubai Walk network will feature smart mobility tools like digital wayfinding, interactive walkways, and real-time updates through apps. Climate-friendly touches, shading, misting systems, and green corridors, will keep pedestrians comfortable all year (much needed).
Move, explore, repeat
So if you’ve ever stressed about hitting your 10k steps, Dubai’s about to make it way easier. With new walkways, shady paths, and cycling tracks popping up everywhere, your daily steps are basically taken care of. PLUS you get to enjoy the city while you’re at it.
ALSO READ: Dubai Is Replacing “Housewife” With “Generation Shaper” And People Are Loving It
The post Dubai Is About To Become One Of The Most Walkable Cities appeared first on Lovin Dubai.
