Dubai is pedalling its way to becoming a bicycle-friendly metropolis with new plans for dedicated cycling tracks and new safety regulations.
In a bid to enhance sustainable mobility and promote healthier lifestyles, Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has unveiled its construction progress on cycling paths going up to 819 km and introduced speed limits for cyclists.
By 2026, RTA plans to build a set of tracks within the city that are interconnected by a sprawling network of over 800 kilometres. This cycling revolution is part of the city's commitment to providing eco-friendly transportation options and encouraging residents and visitors to embrace a healthier lifestyle.
The RTA proudly announced that 90% of the construction for cycling tracks in Al Khawaneej and Mushrif have already been completed.
These two districts are now connected by a 7-kilometre stretch of cycling tracks, adding to the existing 32 kilometres of tracks in the area, bringing the total to an impressive 39 kilometres.
The first track starts at the Quranic Garden and extends to the intersection with Al Khawaneej Street. The second cycling lane begins at Mushrif Park near the Crocodile Park, extending up north to the intersection with Al Khawaneej Street.
This ambitious cycling project is part of a broader master plan to connect key areas of the city with cycling tracks. The goal is to increase Dubai's total cycling track length from 544 kilometres to an impressive 819 kilometres by 2026.
This expansion will ensure that popular coastal regions like Jumeirah, Al Sufouh, and the Marina are linked to external road tracks such as Al Qudra, Seih Al Salam, and Nad Al Sheba, connecting residents and visitors with more sustainable transportation options.
In line with its commitment to safety, the RTA has set speed limits for cycling tracks to protect both cyclists and pedestrians. Here are the newly established speed limits:
Cycling tracks dedicated to amateurs and those shared with vehicles have a maximum limit of 30 km/h. This ensures safer roads and helps avoid accidents.
Dedicated or shared tracks with pedestrians in urban areas must not exceed 20 km/h. This lower limit is designed to enhance safety in areas where cyclists and pedestrians share the same space.
The introduction of cycling tracks and speed limits aligns with Dubai's vision of becoming a bicycle-friendly city.
Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the RTA, expressed the importance of this project. He stated that these initiatives are not just about cycling; they are about improving the overall quality of life in Dubai.
The project aims to provide residents and visitors with sustainable mobility options and encourage the practice of sports and recreational activities. By embracing cycling as an alternative and sustainable means of transportation, Dubai is steering toward a greener and healthier future.
Keen to know more about Dubai’s upcoming plans and projects? Take a read here.
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