Dubai approves 31 pedestrian bridges and tunnels to enhance safety by 2030
RTA plan aims to boost mobility, reduce accidents and expand sustainable transport infrastructure
Dubai: Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has approved a five-year plan to construct 31 pedestrian bridges and tunnels across key locations in the emirate by 2030.
The plan, covering the period from 2026 to 2030, is based on detailed technical and field studies that considered factors including population density, land use integration, proximity to tourist and economic areas, and connectivity with public transport stations.
Enhancing mobility and safety
The initiative aims to improve traffic flow, enhance pedestrian safety and provide safer crossings for pedestrians and cyclists.
Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors at RTA, said the expansion of pedestrian infrastructure reflects the leadership’s directives to create a safe and sustainable mobility environment.
He added that the move supports Dubai’s ambition to become a pedestrian- and cyclist-friendly city while improving overall quality of life for residents and visitors.
Significant growth in infrastructure
Al Tayer noted that the number of pedestrian bridges and tunnels in Dubai has increased from 26 in 2006 to 178 by the end of 2025, marking a 585 percent growth.
The additional 31 structures will be built in strategic locations including Sheikh Zayed Road, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street, Al Ittihad Road and Omar bin Al Khattab Street.
Improved safety indicators
The expansion has contributed to a sharp decline in pedestrian fatalities, with the rate falling from 9.5 deaths per 100,000 population in 2007 to 0.22 in 2025, a reduction of 98 percent.
Pedestrian and cycling activity has also increased, with pedestrian trips rising from 307 million in 2023 to 326 million in 2025, while cycling trips grew from 46.6 million in 2024 to 57.3 million in 2025.
Ongoing and completed projects
RTA recently completed three pedestrian and cycling bridges, including two on Sheikh Zayed Road and Al Khail Road, featuring dedicated tracks for bicycles and e-scooters alongside pedestrian walkways.
A third bridge in Al Quoz Creative Zone supports movement within the area and connects it to surrounding destinations.
Three additional bridges are currently under construction, including two major projects on Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road and Dubai-Al Ain Road. Completion is expected in the first quarter of 2027.
Supporting sustainable transport
RTA said the bridges form part of an integrated network linking residential communities with key destinations, encouraging the use of sustainable mobility options for first- and last-mile journeys.
The authority emphasised that the development aligns with the Dubai Traffic Safety Strategy, which aims to achieve zero fatalities and position the emirate among the world’s leading cities in road safety.
The new infrastructure will incorporate advanced systems, including safety monitoring, alarm and fire-fighting technologies, as well as dedicated cycling tracks and related facilities.