His Highness Mattar Al Tayer, Chairman of the Supreme Committee for Urban Planning, chaired the 33rd meeting of the Committee, which reviewed key strategies and projects aligned with the Dubai Master Plan 2040, reported by Emirates 24|7. The meeting also reviewed progress in implementing the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to make Dubai the world’s most liveable city.
The committee will focus on implementing plans and projects that enhance community well-being, aligning with the objectives of the Year of Community initiative, which aims to strengthen social ties and promote a cohesive and prosperous society. In addition, the efforts will promote development and investment in the five city centers, contributing to economic diversification, business growth and job creation. These initiatives will also address housing and basic services, contributing to the goals of the 20-minute city concept, while strengthening Dubai’s global leadership in urban planning through the implementation of innovative planning systems.
Pedestrian walkways and innovative projects
Among the landmark projects approved in 2024 is the comprehensive pedestrian walkway master plan, “Dubai Walk”, which envisages the construction of more than 6,500 kilometers of pedestrian walkways in 160 districts, transforming Dubai into a year-round, pedestrian-friendly city. In addition, the “Super Block” initiative will be introduced as an urban design concept within the Dubai Walk master plan. The concept will be tested in several areas, including Al Fahidi, Abu Khail, Al Karama and the Al Quoz Creative Zone.
In December, the contract for the construction of the Blue Line of the Dubai Metro was awarded, marking a strategic milestone in the development of public transport infrastructure in the region. With a length of 30 kilometers, half of the route is underground, the project will include 14 stations and serve nine residential and development areas, catering to a projected population of one million by 2040.
Progress on the Dubai 2040 Master Plan
Therme Dubai was also launched, marking the creation of the world’s longest interactive resort and park. The project, developed in partnership with the private sector, is expected to attract approximately 1.7 million visitors annually. Since its establishment in March 2021, the Supreme Committee for Urban Planning has completed several key initiatives under the Dubai Master Plan 2040. Its achievements include the planning of over 17,400 residential plots for citizens, the development of the Urban Planning Law, the Dubai Rural and Desert Master Plan, and the Public Beach Master Plan. The Dubai Master Plan 2040 is designed to achieve several strategic objectives, primarily to develop integrated communities that adhere to the highest planning standards, including green spaces, commercial centers, and recreational facilities to enhance the quality of life. The plan includes a 105% increase in green spaces, recreational areas, and public parks, a 134% expansion of the hospitality and tourism sector, and an increase in economic activity zones to 168 square kilometers, which will strengthen Dubai’s position as a global economic and logistics hub. In addition, it is planned to increase the area designated for educational and healthcare facilities by 25% and increase public beach areas by 400%.