Dubai’s bridge boom: RTA builds towards zero-fatality, pedestrian-first future

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has completed two key pedestrian bridges on Sheikh Rashid Street and Al Mina Street as part of the expansive Al Shindagha Corridor Improvement Project. This is just one component of a broader strategy that includes six new pedestrian and cyclist bridges across Dubai, five of which are set to open before the end of this year, while the sixth is targeted for completion in the first quarter of 2027.

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The RTA has also unveiled an ambitious roadmap to construct 23 more bridges by the end of 2030, significantly expanding the city’s pedestrian and cycling infrastructure.

This expansion aims to improve safety, enhance connectivity, and encourage the use of sustainable transport options such as walking, cycling, and e-scooters, a Dubai Media Office report said.

Leadership-driven vision to boost quality of life and road safety

According to Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority, the extensive pedestrian bridge program directly reflects the vision of Dubai’s leadership.

“RTA’s drive to deliver pedestrian bridges reflects the directives of the leadership to enhance road safety, provide a safe and sustainable mobility environment for all road users, and transform Dubai into a pedestrian and cyclist-friendly city. It also supports the city’s quality of life agenda,” said Al Tayer.

The existing and planned bridges form a strategic mobility network, connecting residential areas with key commercial, recreational, and tourist destinations across Dubai. This integrated network is designed to facilitate “first and last-mile” travel, short trips to and from public transport, and reduce dependency on cars.

Bridges expand six-fold since 2006, with 23 more on the way

The scale of the RTA’s commitment is reflected in the exponential increase in pedestrian infrastructure: the number of bridges and underpasses grew from just 26 in 2006 to a projected 177 by the end of 2024, representing a 581 per cent increase.

Under its current strategic plan, the RTA aims to construct 23 additional pedestrian bridges by 2030. These locations are selected based on comprehensive field studies that evaluate factors such as:

• Population density
• Urban land use and planning
• Proximity to tourism and economic zones
• Access to public transport hubs

This analytical approach ensures that the bridges are optimally located to enhance pedestrian safety and traffic flow while supporting city-wide efforts to reduce congestion and carbon emissions.

Safer streets: Fatalities down 97 per cent since 2007

Al Tayer highlighted the significant progress made in reducing pedestrian-related road fatalities, thanks in large part to infrastructure upgrades and proactive transport policies.

“RTA’s efforts in enhancing road safety and integrating infrastructure have contributed to a decline in pedestrian fatalities and accidents, from 9.5 deaths per 100,000 people in 2007 to 0.3 deaths in 2024, a reduction of 97 per cent,” he noted.

Pedestrian satisfaction levels have also improved dramatically, now reaching 88 per cent across the city. Furthermore, pedestrian trips climbed from 307 million in 2023 to 326 million in 2024, representing 6 per cent annual growth. Similarly, cycling trips saw a 5 per cent increase, rising from 44 million in 2023 to 46.6 million in 2024.

These trends underscore a growing public shift toward sustainable transport alternatives, supported by the RTA’s infrastructure investments.

Zero fatalities strategy: Safety meets innovation

Al Tayer reiterated that pedestrian safety is a core pillar of Dubai’s Traffic Safety Strategy, which is rooted in the bold objective of achieving Zero Fatalities on the roads.

To this end, the RTA is not only building more bridges but also ensuring they meet the highest international standards of design and construction. The bridges are outfitted with:

• Advanced electromechanical systems
• Fire alarms and firefighting equipment
• Remote monitoring capabilities
• Safety and security infrastructure
• Dedicated bicycle and e-scooter paths, in select locations
• Bike racks, supporting multi-modal transport

Design aesthetics are also prioritized, with bridges incorporating architectural features that reflect the identity and surroundings of the area they serve.

New bridges completed on Sheikh Rashid and Al Mina Streets

The two newly completed pedestrian bridges, part of the Al Shindagha Corridor Improvement Project, enhance safe access across two major arterial roads:

• Sheikh Rashid Street Bridge:
  • Length: 91 metres
  • Width: 3.4 metres
  • Height: 6.5 metres
• Al Mina Street Bridge:
  • Length: 109 metres
  • Width: 3.4 metres
  • Height: 6.5 metres

Both bridges are equipped with lifts, staircases, and electromechanical rooms containing safety systems, including fire alarms, firefighting units, and remote surveillance equipment.

Bridges nearing completion across key city corridors

Six pedestrian and cyclist bridges are currently under construction, with five expected to open by the end of 2024. These bridges will connect multiple high-density and high-mobility zones, including areas with strong demand for non-motorized transport options.

1. Sheikh Zayed Road Bridge

This bridge forms a strategic link between Al Sufouh and Dubai Hills, passing through Dubai Internet City, Al Barsha Heights, and Al Barsha 3.

• Length: 528 metres
• Width: 5 metres (3m for cyclists/e-scooters, 2m for pedestrians)
• Design: Inspired by interwoven lines symbolizing connectivity; open structure offers panoramic city views

2. Al Khail Road Bridge

Running parallel to the sun’s path, this bridge offers a tranquil, fluid passage for pedestrians and cyclists away from road noise.

• Length: 501 metres
• Width: 5 metres (same configuration as above)
• Design: Highlights natural light, integrating solar trajectory into the structure

3. Al Manara Street Bridge – Al Quoz Creative Zone

Designed to complement the artistic identity of the area, this bridge facilitates safe movement in the Al Quoz Creative Zone and nearby attractions.

• Length: 45 metres
• Width: 5.5 metres
• Height: 6 metres from road level
• Ramp Lengths: 210 metres on each side

Major arterial crossings: Dubai–Al Ain and Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Roads

4. Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road Bridge (Al Nahda Intersection)

Connecting Muhaisnah 1 and Al Twar, this bridge also extends access toward Al Mamzar Beach.

• Length: 554 metres
• Width: 5.6 metres
• Height: 12.5 metres

5. Dubai–Al Ain Road Bridge

Provides a crucial crossing between Wadi Al Safa 4 (Liwan) and Nadd Hessa (Dubai Silicon Oasis).

• Length: 730 metres
• Width: 5.6 metres
• Height: 7.8 metres

Bridge six under future street project: Completion in 2027

The sixth bridge, being built on Al Sukook Street, forms part of the Future Street Improvement Project and integrates with Dubai’s Central Business District.

• Length: 44 metres
• Width: 4.6 metres
• Height: 6.5 metres
• Features: Lifts, staircases, electromechanical system rooms

The bridge design is tailored to blend with the surrounding urban landscape, providing a safe and seamless connection for pedestrians and cyclists.

Next phase: Nine bridges by 2028 including key landmarks

Looking further ahead, the RTA has confirmed plans to construct nine more pedestrian bridges by 2028. These include:

• A bridge near Coca-Cola Arena
• A pedestrian bridge in Business Bay
• A strategic crossing on Sheikh Zayed Road close to the Burj Khalifa area
• Six additional bridges along Al Asayel Street, supporting dense commercial and residential zones

These future installations are expected to further boost connectivity and enable more residents and visitors to choose walking or cycling for daily commutes.