Dubai , June 15 , 2026 : Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has approved the five-
year plan 2026–2030, covering the construction of 31 pedestrian
bridges and tunnels across key locations in Dubai. Sites were selected
following detailed technical and field studies that considered
population density, integration with land uses, proximity to tourist and
economic destinations, and connectivity with public transport stations.
The plan aims to improve traffic flow, enhance pedestrian safety, and
enable pedestrians and cyclists to crossroads safely.
His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Director General, Chairman of the
Board of Executive Directors, Roads and Transport Authority, affirmed
that the continued expansion of pedestrian bridge infrastructure
reflects the directives of the wise leadership to enhance traffic safety,
provide a safe and sustainable mobility environment for all road users,
and make Dubai a pedestrian and cyclist-friendly city. He added that
these efforts also support the emirate’s quality-of-life and contribute to
the happiness of residents and visitors.
Al Tayer noted that the number of pedestrian bridges and tunnels has
grown from 26 in 2006 to 178 by the end of 2025, an increase of
585%. The 31 pedestrian bridges and tunnels planned for completion
by 2030 will span several key locations, most notably Sheikh Zayed
Road, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street, Al Ittihad Road and
Omar bin Al Khattab Street.
His Excellency said: “Existing and planned pedestrian bridges form an
integrated pathway network linking residential communities across
Dubai with key destinations and encouraging residents to use
sustainable soft mobility modes for first and last-mile journeys.
Pedestrian bridges and tunnels have played a significant role in
enhancing traffic safety, with the pedestrian fatality rate falling from 9.5
deaths per 100,000 population in 2007 to 0.22 deaths in 2025, a
decline of 98%.”
“They have also contributed to measurable gains across key
indicators, with residents’ satisfaction with Dubai’s pedestrian
infrastructure reaching 88%, pedestrian trips increasing from 307
million in 2023 to 326 million in 2025, a rise of 6%, and cycling trips
increasing from 46.6 million in 2024 to 57.3 million in 2025, a rise of
23%.”
Completed Bridges
RTA has recently completed three pedestrian and cycling bridges. Two
were constructed on Sheikh Zayed Road and Al Khail Road, providing
strategic links for pedestrian, cycling and e-scooter tracks across Al
Sufouh and Dubai Hills, extending through Dubai Internet City, Barsha
Heights and Al Barsha 3.
Both bridges feature distinctive architectural designs inspired by
surrounding environments. Sheikh Zayed Road bridge draws on
themes of interconnection and continuity through interwoven lines,
while its open structural form offers unobstructed view of the
surrounding towers and skyline. Al Khail Road bridge draws inspiration
from the light-lines cast by the sun’s rays, giving the pathway a
smooth, flowing character and offering pedestrians and cyclists a
sense of calm, away from road noise, with the sun’s path integrated
into the overall architectural concept.
Sheikh Zayed Road bridge spans 528 metres, while Al Khail Road
bridge extends 501 metres. Both bridges are 5 metres wide,
comprising a 3-metre track for bicycles and e-scooters and a 2-metre
pedestrian walkway.
The third completed bridge is located on Al Manara Street in Al Quoz
Creative Zone, supporting the smooth movement of pedestrians and
cyclists within the area and to surrounding attractions. Its design
incorporates aesthetic elements that align with the visual identity of the
zone’s facilities and surroundings. The bridge is 45 metres long and
5.5 metres wide, with a clearance of 6 metres above asphalt level. It
also includes two ramps, one on either side, each extending 210
metres.
Bridges Under Construction
RTA is currently constructing three additional pedestrian bridges, two
of which rank among Dubai’s largest pedestrian and cycling bridges
and are now in their final stages of construction.
The first is located on Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road at Tunis
Street–Al Nahda intersection, linking Muhaisnah 1 with Al Twar and
extending onwards to Al Mamzar Beach. The bridge is 554 metres
long and 5.6 metres wide, with a clearance of 12.5 metres above
Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road.
The second crosses Dubai–Al Ain Road, linking Wadi Al Safa 4,
known as Liwan, with Nad Hessa in Dubai Silicon Oasis. The bridge is
730 metres long and 5.6 metres wide, with a clearance of 7.8 metres
above Dubai–Al Ain Road.
The third is being constructed as part of Al Mustaqbal Street
Development Project. Located on Al Sukook Street, the bridge
features a design that complements the urban fabric of Dubai’s Central
Business District. It is 44 metres long, 4.6 metres wide and 6.5 metres
high, and includes lifts, staircases and an electromechanical systems
room. Completion is expected in the first quarter of 2027.
Pedestrian Safety
RTA places the highest priority on pedestrian safety as a key pillar of
Dubai’s safe and sustainable transport system. The construction of
pedestrian and cycling bridges forms part of the Dubai Traffic Safety
Strategy, which aims to achieve Zero Fatalities and position Dubai
among the world’s leading cities in traffic safety.
RTA is expanding its pedestrian bridge network in line with the highest
international standards in design and construction, while incorporating
creative and aesthetic elements. The bridges are equipped with
advanced systems, including electromechanical, alarm, fire-fighting
and remote monitoring systems, along with other safety and security
features. Select bridges also include dedicated cycling tracks and
bicycle parking facilities.
