“Dubai unveils an ambitious plan for 6,500 km of walkable, air-conditioned pathways, including the iconic Future Loop, to transform the city into a sustainable urban haven by 2040.”
Dubai, known for its striking skyscrapers and luxury developments, is set to redefine urban living with an ambitious new project: Dubai Walk. This initiative aims to transform the city into a walkable haven through an extensive network of pathways spanning 6,500 kilometers (4,000 miles), including air-conditioned and shaded footpaths to combat the harsh desert climate.
While the project is still in its early stages, it signals a bold vision for the future of Dubai as a sustainable and pedestrian-friendly city.
The Dubai Walk project will rehabilitate 2,300 kilometers (1,430 miles) of existing pathways, with new infrastructure making up the remaining length. Among its standout features is the Future Loop, an iconic elevated walkway in the Museum of the Future area.
The Future Loop is designed to connect major landmarks, including:
- Dubai World Trade Centre
- Museum of the Future
- Emirates Towers
- Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC)
- Nearby metro stations
This 2-kilometer (1.2-mile) elevated path will feature air-conditioned corridors and shaded green spaces spanning 30,000 square meters (322,000 sq. ft.), offering year-round comfort to residents and visitors alike.
Dubai’s move toward walkability aligns with global efforts to create sustainable urban environments. The project also includes commercial spaces, ensuring it supports both environmental and economic goals.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, emphasized the vision behind this initiative, stating, “This is more than infrastructure; it’s about redefining urban experiences, fostering innovation, and creating sustainable spaces for future generations.”
With a public-private partnership model driving the project, Dubai Walk will serve as a blueprint for cities aiming to combine sustainability, convenience, and futuristic design.
The Dubai Walk project is set to be a multi-decade endeavor.
- Pilot Phase: 2025–2027
- Full Completion: 2040
This phased approach allows for continual evaluation and adaptation, ensuring the infrastructure meets the needs of a growing city.
The project promises to revolutionize urban mobility by providing a walkable alternative to driving. The air-conditioned pathways will address Dubai’s extreme climate, encouraging walking as a practical mode of transport. Residents and visitors will benefit from:
- Improved connectivity to key landmarks and metro stations
- Comfortable walking experiences year-round
- Access to shaded green spaces
Additionally, the pathways will contribute to reduced carbon emissions, supporting Dubai’s sustainability goals
Dubai Walk is poised to transform how people experience the city, offering a glimpse into the future of urban innovation. By prioritizing pedestrian comfort and sustainability, Dubai sets a new benchmark for modern cities around the globe.
As the pilot phase launches in 2025, anticipation builds for how this ambitious project will shape the city’s landscape by 2040.