RTA Dubai Accelerates Safety with 31 New Pedestrian Bridges by 2030
Walking across busy roads in Dubai has often required more courage than it should. Many major thoroughfares lack safe crossings for long stretches, leading pedestrians to jaywalk and rush across streets in hopes of avoiding traffic. In response to this pressing issue, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced plans to construct 31 pedestrian bridges and tunnels across key areas in Dubai over the next five years, with completion expected by 2030. This initiative aims to enhance pedestrian safety by placing crossings where they are most needed.
Locations for the New Bridges
The selection of locations for these new pedestrian structures is strategic. The bridges will be constructed along Sheikh Zayed Road, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street, Al Ittihad Road, and Omar bin Al Khattab Street—four of the busiest corridors in the emirate. Factors influencing the site selection included population density, land use connections, proximity to tourist and economic facilities, and access to public transport stations.
Essentially, the bridges will be positioned in areas where foot traffic is already significant, such as near schools, metro stations, and residential neighborhoods. The Dubai Media Office has indicated that a total of 110 pedestrian bridges and tunnels are needed by 2040 across 160 locations in the city, with these 31 bridges marking a significant step toward that larger vision.
Notable Features: The 730-Metre Bridge on Dubai-Al Ain Road
Among the 31 planned pedestrian bridges, one stands out: a dedicated pedestrian and cyclist bridge spanning 730 metres along Dubai-Al Ain Road. This structure will serve as a vital link between communities on either side of one of Dubai’s busiest inter-emirate highways, providing a safe passage for both pedestrians and cyclists.
Additionally, plans are underway for nine more bridges to be initiated by the end of 2028. These will include a bridge near the Coca Cola Arena, Business Bay, and the Burj Khalifa area, as well as six crossings along Al Asayel Street. Each of these locations is characterized by heavy traffic and currently lacks pedestrian-friendly infrastructure.
Progress on Existing Projects
The current initiative builds on previous efforts. To date, two pedestrian bridges have been completed on Sheikh Zayed Road and Al Khail Road, facilitating safe passage for pedestrians, cyclists, and e-scooter users across Al Sufouh and Dubai Hills, connecting areas such as Dubai Internet City, Barsha Heights, and Al Barsha 3.
A third bridge has been completed on Al Manara Street in the Al Quoz Creative Zone. This bridge measures 45 metres in length and 5.5 metres in width, with a clearance of 6 metres above the road. Each side features a ramp extending 210 metres, and its design complements the aesthetic of the surrounding creative zone.
Currently, three additional pedestrian bridges are under construction. Two of these are among the largest in Dubai, nearing completion. The first connects Muhaisnah 1 with Al Twar along Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, extending towards the Al Mamzar Beach area.
Advanced Features of the New Bridges
These pedestrian bridges will be equipped with various safety and technological features. They will include alarm systems, fire-fighting equipment, electromechanical systems, and remote monitoring capabilities. Some bridges will also feature dedicated cycling tracks and bicycle parking facilities, reflecting a broader shift towards integrated mobility solutions.
Mattar Al Tayer, Director General of the RTA, emphasized that this expansion aligns with the leadership’s vision to transform Dubai into a pedestrian and cyclist-friendly city. The initiative aims to create a safe and sustainable environment for all road users.
For residents, the addition of a bridge near a metro stop or school translates to a straightforward benefit: safer road crossings. This development allows children to walk without the constant supervision of parents, while cyclists gain dedicated routes that do not require sharing space with fast-moving vehicles.
The infrastructure improvements represent a significant advancement in urban planning, focusing on safety and accessibility for all.
Source: timesofdubai.ae
Read all the latest developments and breaking updates in the Latest News section.
Published on 2026-06-16 12:10:00 • By the Editorial Desk
