Dubai is turning one of its oldest neighbourhoods into a walking paradise, and honestly, it’s about time!
If you’ve ever tried walking through Dubai’s historic Al Ras area, you know the drill. Narrow footpaths, barely any shade, and the kind of heat that makes you regret leaving the car. Well, all of that is about to change. Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has just awarded the very first contract under its massive Dubai Walk plan, and guess where it all begins? Right here, in Al Ras. Here’s everything you need to know about this exciting transformation.
RTA Awards Contract For Phase I Of Dubai Walk Al Ras
#RTA has awarded the contract for Phase I of the Pedestrian Master Plan (Dubai Walk) in Historic Al Ras. The project includes the development of the Historic Al Ras Walkway, comprising 12 km of walkways and 5 km of cycling tracks, and the rehabilitation of 10 artistic spaces in… pic.twitter.com/xeUmHlhk6B
— RTA (@rta_dubai) March 22, 2026
On Saturday, March 22, the RTA officially kicked off Phase I of the Dubai Walk Pedestrian Master Plan in the historic Al Ras area. As it happens, this isn’t just a footpath upgrade, it’s a full-blown neighbourhood transformation. The project includes the development of 12 km of pedestrian walkways, 5 km of cycling tracks, and the rehabilitation of 10 artistic spaces. The artistic spaces will feature work by Emirati and local artists, developed in coordination with the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority. Pretty cool, right?
But Wait, Why Al Ras Of All Places?
Al Ras isn’t just any neighbourhood. It’s one of Dubai’s oldest communities, sitting right on the shores of the Dubai Creek. This is where pearl merchants once traded, where the famous Gold Souk and Spice Souk still buzz with activity. Moreover, where buildings with traditional Barjeel wind towers still stand as reminders of a pre-skyscraper Dubai.
The area is already packed with heritage landmarks within walking distance of each other. Al Ahmadiya School (one of Dubai’s oldest schools, now a museum), the Heritage House, Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House, and the Al Ras Public Library, which was inaugurated way back in 1963. The only problem? Getting between them on foot has never been a great experience. Until now.
What Will The Dubai Walk Al Ras Makeover Actually Look Like?
The Dubai Walk Pedestrian Master Plan includes the development of a comprehensive structural framework for an integrated, accessible walkway network that meets safety standards and provides a comfortable pedestrian environment. The plan covers the rollout of a walkway network… pic.twitter.com/ZrHUWMP0ns
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) March 22, 2026
The upgrade goes way beyond just laying new tiles on the pavement. Here’s what Al Ras residents and visitors can expect:
Wider footpaths with proper shading structures and misting systems to beat the Dubai heat. There will be additional seating areas, expanded green spaces, and recreational and fitness equipment along the route. Not to mention, digital wayfinding systems are designed to match the historic character of the district, so you won’t feel like you’ve walked into a futuristic airport.
The walkway will also connect to 11 metro, bus, and marine transport stations, making it super easy to hop off the metro at Al Ras station. Take a heritage walk, and then catch an abra (water taxi) across the creek. It should be noted that the entire design approach is being called “context-sensitive.” This means all the new infrastructure will blend with the traditional architecture rather than clash with it.
It’s All Part Of Dubai’s ’20-Minute City’ Vision
If you’re wondering why Dubai is suddenly so invested in walkways, here’s the bigger picture. This project is a key part of the Dubai Urban Plan 2040, which aims to turn the emirate into a “20-minute city.” Where over 80% of essential services are accessible within a 20-minute walk or bike ride.
As it happens, walking and soft mobility currently account for just 16% of all trips in Dubai. The target? 25% by 2040. To get there, the overall Dubai Walk Al Ras Master Plan envisions a staggering 6,000 km of walkways across 160 areas. Along with 110 pedestrian bridges and underpasses across the city. The Al Ras project is simply where it all starts.
Heritage Meets Street Art: 10 Artistic Spaces Coming To Al Ras
One of the most exciting parts of the Dubai Walk Al Ras project is that the 10 artistic spaces across Al Ras will be rehabilitated and brought to life. This will be done with murals, sculptures, and public art installations by local and Emirati artists. There will also be advanced architectural lighting that highlights the district’s heritage facades after sunset. The best past this will turn the Al Ras into a destination you’d actually want to explore at night.
The RTA has also said that young people will get a chance to contribute design ideas for mobility infrastructure. So this isn’t just about preserving the past; it’s about letting a new generation shape what the district looks like going forward.
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When Will The Al Ras Walkway Be Ready?
The first phase of Dubai Walk Al Ras is set to be completed between 2025 and 2027. After that, subsequent phases of the Dubai Walk Master Plan will roll out across the rest of the emirate. The full 6,000 km network is expected to be in place by 2040. The cost of the project hasn’t been disclosed yet, but given the scale, this is clearly one of the biggest urban pedestrian projects anywhere in the world right now.
What Does This Mean For You?
Whether you’re a Dubai resident who’s tired of driving everywhere or a tourist who wants to explore the city’s heritage on foot, the Al Ras walkway is genuinely exciting. Imagine walking from the Gold Souk to Al Fahidi Fort on a shaded, art-lined path, stopping for a coffee, catching an abra across the creek — all without breaking a sweat (well, mostly).
With the Dubai Walk plans underway, the city is sending a clear message: the future isn’t just about bigger roads and faster cars. Sometimes, it’s about slowing down, stepping out, and walking through a neighbourhood that’s been telling stories for over a century.
Image Credits: X/rta_dubai
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FAQs
What is the Dubai Walk project in Al Ras?
Dubai Walk is a pedestrian master plan by the RTA. The first phase focuses on Al Ras, featuring 12 km of walkways, 5 km of cycling tracks, and 10 artistic spaces developed with local artists.
Why was Al Ras chosen for the first phase?
Al Ras is one of Dubai’s oldest and most heritage-rich neighbourhoods, home to the Gold Souk, Spice Souk, Heritage House, Al Ahmadiya School, and several other landmarks — all within walking distance.
When will the Al Ras walkway be completed?
Phase I is expected to be completed between 2025 and 2027. The full Dubai Walk network of 6,000 km of walkways is planned to be ready by 2040.
What is the ’20-minute city’ concept?
Under the Dubai Urban Plan 2040, the emirate aims to become a city where residents can access over 80% of their essential daily needs within a 20-minute walk or bicycle ride.
Will there be shade and cooling along the walkways?
Yes! The project includes shading structures, misting systems, expanded green spaces, and climate-responsive design features to make walking comfortable even in warmer months.
How will the walkway connect to public transport?
The Al Ras walkway will link directly to 11 metro, bus, and marine transport stations, including the Al Ras Metro Station and abra (water taxi) crossings on Dubai Creek.
