Dubai Is Transforming Into A Walkable City With Air-Conditioned Paths

Dubai, often celebrated for its towering skyscrapers and sprawling deserts, is embarking on a remarkable transformation to redefine urban mobility. Traditionally not known for walkability, the city plans to introduce an extensive pedestrian-friendly network under the ambitious Dubai Walk Master Plan.

The Dubai Walk initiative spans an impressive 6,500 kilometers (approximately 4,000 miles) of walkways, including 2,300 kilometers (1,430 miles) of rehabilitated existing pathways. The project also includes the development of 110 pedestrian bridges and underpasses to improve connectivity, aligning with Dubai’s goal of increasing pedestrian mobility from 13% to 25% by 2040.

Among its many highlights is the Future Loop, an iconic elevated walkway near the Museum of the Future. Spanning 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) with a width ranging from 6 to 15 meters (20 to 50 feet), the Future Loop will connect prominent landmarks such as the Dubai World Trade Centre, Emirates Towers, and the Dubai International Financial Centre, while seamlessly integrating with metro stations. This futuristic pathway will feature a 30,000-square-meter (322,000-square-foot) air-conditioned level for year-round use, complemented by an additional 30,000 square meters of shaded green spaces.

The Dubai Walk will include a variety of pedestrian routes catering to all preferences, such as scenic waterfront paths, rural and mountain trails, and urban city walkways. These pathways will link major attractions like the Burj Khalifa and the Museum of the Future, creating a seamless experience for residents and visitors alike.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, emphasized the significance of the project, stating, “This iconic elevated walkway… seamlessly connects key landmarks,” while highlighting its mixed-use potential, including commercial spaces to be developed through public-private partnerships.

Set to be rolled out in phases, the pilot phase of Dubai Walk will commence in 2025 and conclude by 2027, with the entire project slated for completion by 2040.