The initiative to create car-free, pedestrian-friendly areas aligns with Dubai’s 2040 Urban Master Plan, which aims to create a greener, more sustainable urban environment
Dubai is stepping up its commitment to sustainability with the introduction of the new Super Block initiative, aimed at creating car-free zones across key residential areas in the city.
Announced on Thursday by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai, the initiative is designed to enhance the urban experience by prioritising pedestrians and cyclists in residential neighbourhoods.
The initiative aligns with Dubai’s broader vision for a greener future, as laid out in the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan.
With a focus on reducing carbon emissions, the plan aims to make Dubai a more sustainable and livable city by transforming existing residential areas into pro-pedestrian zones.
Four areas to be designated as car-free, pedestrian-friendly zones
Areas such as Al Fahidi, Abu Hail, Al Karama, and Al Quoz Creative Zone will be the first to undergo these transformative changes.
These areas will be redesigned to improve green spaces and promote social interaction through shared public spaces, enhancing the overall quality of life for residents.
The Executive Council of Dubai has approved the Super Block initiative, a key step in reinforcing the city’s status as a global leader in pedestrian-friendly urban environments, said Sheikh Hamdan in a post on the social media platform, X.
Further, we introduced the Super Block initiative to create car-free pedestrian-friendly neighbourhoods. The Unified Digital Platform initiative was also adopted to streamline government services offered through specialized platforms such as the Dubai Now app, Invest in Dubai for… pic.twitter.com/GZesV9hXqZ
— Hamdan bin Mohammed (@HamdanMohammed) February 6, 2025
In addition to these transformative urban changes, Dubai continues to expand its wellness offerings, with the recent announcement of Therme Dubai, an innovative wellness destination that is aiming to take on the mantle of the “tallest’ resort in the world once it’s complete.
Therme Dubai will focus on creating an immersive wellness experience, combining natural thermal bathing with cutting-edge health and wellness technologies.
Dubai Walk Master Plan
In December last year, Dubai also approved the Dubai Walk Master Plan, a comprehensive initiative to establish a 6,500-kilometre network of modern walkways across the emirate by 2040.
This ambitious project, approved by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, aims to connect 160 areas with 3,300 kilometres of new walkways and rehabilitate 2,300 kilometres of existing ones.
The plan prioritises accessibility, safety, and the integration of green spaces, providing a comfortable walking experience that enhances Dubai’s livability. It also includes the construction of 110 pedestrian bridges and underpasses and aims to boost pedestrian mobility from 13 to 25 per cent by 2040.
Aligning with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan and the Quality of Life Strategy 2033, the Dubai Walk Master Plan is designed to strengthen Dubai’s position as a global leader in pedestrian and soft mobility. In addition to promoting active lifestyles and improving connectivity, the plan will feature distinctive designs that reflect the unique character of each area, with amenities such as art displays, rest areas, and commercial spaces.
The plan’s implementation will occur in three stages, beginning in 2025, and is set to transform Dubai into one of the world’s most pedestrian-friendly cities.
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