Latest news with #Dubai2040UrbanMasterPlan
Time of India
13 hours ago
- Time of India
Will Dubai's 20-minute city vision melt under extreme summer heat? Is there a plan?
Dubai is testing climate-controlled zones and shaded walkways to make its 20-minute city vision viable even during extreme summer heat (Representative Image) Dubai is pushing forward with its ambitious goal of building '20-minute cities': neighborhoods where residents can access 80% of their daily needs, such as work, school, shops, and parks, within a 20-minute walk, bike ride, or public transport trip. This urban planning concept is a cornerstone of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan and is already being realized through projects like the Model District in Al Barsha 2. Currently under construction. The goal is to reduce reliance on private vehicles by building compact, mixed-use communities that encourage local living. This means people will be able to live, work, study, and relax all within a 20-minute radius of their homes. A key metric in the plan is ensuring that 55 percent of Dubai's residents live within 800 meters of a mass transit station, enabling them to reach 80 percent of their essential destinations with ease. The broader objective is to create smarter urban layouts that promote well-being, cut down on traffic congestion, and make everyday life more convenient for everyone, whether in newly developed areas or eventually in older neighborhoods as well. However, despite the well-thought-out design, one major challenge stands in the way: Dubai's extreme summer heat. How Expo City is Tackling the Heat At Expo City Dubai, planners are leading the experimentation with adaptive solutions for year-round mobility, especially during the sweltering summer months. 'In the winter, people are encouraged to walk,' explained Ivan Kyselov, Senior Manager of City Operations at Expo City Dubai, during his presentation at Mobility Live, a global event hosted at the venue that brings together experts in smart transport and mobility solutions. 'It's an experience and we promote it by activating the spaces around the walking routes. If you paint something on the pathway, kids will just simply play and walk these 15 minutes. Adults are the same. So we add an interactive element of architecture and urban development as a pit stop,' he added. To enhance accessibility and comfort, Expo City Dubai is adopting a flexible, seasonal approach: In winter: Encouraging walking through interactive, engaging spaces In summer: Introducing climate-adapted solutions such as: Climate-responsive urban design such as enclosed cool spaces Shaded walking routes Smart mobility hubs for bicycles and e-scooters Electric vehicles to support inclusive and multi-modal mobility Kyselov noted these innovations are essential to maintaining multimodality, inclusivity, and accessibility throughout the year, especially in Dubai's harsh climate. Don't Forget the Old Neighborhoods While new developments like Expo City are important, experts emphasized the importance of upgrading older districts to align with the 20-minute city model. Martin Tillman, a transport mobility planning expert, told Mobility Live attendees that regenerating aging urban areas should be a top priority. 'We have to help regenerate the old city,' he said. 'It's somewhat easier to go to a new field or site and to say this is how we're going to move forward. It's a little more difficult to go into something that's already existing and work on it because it doesn't have the parking provision or a rail network.' Tillman believes the effort is worth it: 'The reward is significant,' he said. 'Typically the previously planned cities were planned on the basis of better access for pedestrians and for people cycling. They tended to have better shape and were better coded for the day-to-day realities of living here in the Middle East. I think that's crucial and the idea of leaving that to decay is completely wrong.' Sustaining the Vision: Making 20-Minute Cities Work in the Real World With the Dubai 2040 Master Plan already underway, and projects like the Al Barsha 2 Model District and Expo City setting examples, the emirate is clearly committed to evolving its urban fabric. The idea of 20-minute cities offers: Reduced traffic congestion Improved quality of life Lower carbon emissions Greater walkability and livability But success depends heavily on addressing climate realities, particularly by incorporating climate-controlled zones and adaptive infrastructure to keep residents comfortable and mobile year-round. If Dubai succeeds, it won't just have redefined city living in the Gulf, it may also set a new benchmark for sustainable urban planning in hot climates globally.
Time of India
3 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
How Dubai's 20 minute city plans to keep you walking; even in 45°C heat
Dubai's ambitious "20-minute city" concept, part of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, aims to place essential services, transit, and leisure facilities within a 20-minute walk, cycle, or scooter ride for residents. However, the city's sweltering summer temperatures significantly hinder this vision. At Expo City Dubai , officials are pioneering solutions to beat the heat. Ivan Kyselov, Senior Manager of City Operations, told Mobility Live attendees that shaded walkways, interactive pit stops, and electric shuttles are being introduced to make short journeys bearable, even inviting. 'In the winter, people are encouraged to walk … in the summer, we add climate-controlled zones,' he said. Also Read: Singapore tightens rules on crypto startups, Dubai rolls out the red carpet; what investors must know before they jump in by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like War Thunder - Register now for free and play against over 75 Million real Players War Thunder Play Now Undo These interventions include enclosed cooled spaces to offer relief during transit, smart mobility hubs for e-scooters and bicycles, and electric vehicles to ensure constant connectivity across zones. Live Events While new districts like Al Barsha 2 are being built specifically for 20-minute living, retrofitting older areas remains crucial. Transport mobility expert Martin Tillman noted that transforming established neighbourhoods is tougher, but essential: they often already have pedestrian-ready layouts that shouldn't be lost to urban decay. Dubai's goal is to ensure that over 55% of residents live within 800 meters of a transit station and can meet 80% of their daily needs within a short walk or ride. Achieving this in summer demands climate-sensitive solutions, shade, air-conditioned hubs, and carefully designed pathways. Dubai's summer climate routinely exceeds 40 °C, with humidity pushing 'feels-like' temperatures close to 45 °C. The heat not only discourages walking and cycling but also poses health risks and threatens to undermine years of planning and investment.
What's On
19-06-2025
- Business
- What's On
These are the exact locations of the 14 stations on the Dubai Metro Blue Line
In an exciting move for public transportation in Dubai, construction for the Dubai Metro Blue Line expansion is underway, and scheduled for completion in 2029. This massive expansion of the existing network was first discussed back in 2006, along with other potential lines and the expansion of the existing Red and Green lines. After much anticipation, the process has begun, and for those wondering about what the network will look like, we have all the details. The line will serve 9 key communities including Dubai International Airport, Mirdif, Al Warqa, International City 1 and 2, Dubai Silicon Oasis, Academic City, Ras Al Khor Industrial Area, Dubai Creek Harbour and Dubai Festival City. The university area covers more than 129 million square feet and is predicted to accommodate more than 50,000 students by 2029. This station will be a major interchange and the first point of first route of the Dubai Metro Blue Line. The station will allow people on the Blue Line to connect directly with the Green Line. Al Rashidiya Another existing interchange station, Centrepoint Station on the Red Line will be where the second route begins. The final station on the Red Line will connect with the Blue Line. A much needed connection to this growing community, the Al Warqa station will be found on the smaller second route of the Dubai Metro Blue Line. Mirdif is also an area in need for direct transport, considering the large residential, suburban population. This station will be located on the longer 21km route. This is where the world's tallest metro station will be. The Emaar Properties Station is set to be an iconic landmark with the 11,000 square metre space designed to handle up to 160,000 passengers, with more than 70,000 expected to use it daily once it is operational. A 1,300 metre-long bridge will be constructed to allow the Metro to cross the Dubai Creek, the first of it's kind. Dubai Festival City will sit along the larger 21km route of the Dubai Metro Blue Line and connect a vital Dubai mall. The Metro service will provide a direct link for the area to key parts in the city, and means that there won't be as much reliance on the abra boat service. Several of these communities on the the Blue Line will now be directly connected to Dubai International Airport. It is being estimated that this journeys the world's busiest international airport and will take just 20 minutes. Dubai Silicon Oasis is a major, growing community as part of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan. On the Blue Line, the station to this area will sit on the 21km route and serve a much needed area with at the moment, virtually no connectivity to Downtown. The stations will be located in International City, another area that is lacking connectivity at the moment. These will include one underground interchange station allowing for greater connectivity across the existing Metro lines. Ras Al Khor will also be served by the larger route on the Blue Line. Found between the Emaar Properties Station and the International City stops, Ras Al Khor will soon have greater connectivity with major areas in Dubai. For more information on everything we know about the new line, read our guide here. Images: Socials > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
Hi Dubai
17-06-2025
- Business
- Hi Dubai
Nakheel Awards AED750 Million Infrastructure Contracts for Palm Jebel Ali Development
Nakheel, a subsidiary of Dubai Holding Real Estate, has awarded infrastructure contracts worth over AED750 million to DBB Contracting LLC for Palm Jebel Ali, a flagship waterfront development in Dubai. The works are set for completion in the fourth quarter of 2026. The contracts cover key infrastructure elements across Fronds A to G and the Spine District, including utility connections, road and pavement construction, excavation, power distribution, telecoms, and grading for DEWA's power transmission line. This extensive groundwork aims to support the next phase of development on the 13.4-kilometre-long island, which will feature 16 fronds and more than 90 kilometres of beachfront. Palm Jebel Ali was unveiled by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum as part of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, and is central to the emirate's long-term urban expansion, particularly in the Jebel Ali growth corridor. The development aligns with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, which includes increasing public beach access and promoting sustainable, smart urban communities. Khalid Al Malik, CEO of Dubai Holding Real Estate, said the project reflects Dubai's ambition to set a new global standard for luxury waterfront living. 'Palm Jebel Ali is poised to transform the city's urban landscape and attract residents, tourists and investors,' he said. DBB Contracting, which has previously contributed to infrastructure work on the island, expressed pride in continuing its role in the transformative project. General Manager Eugene Terreblanche reaffirmed the company's commitment to quality and innovation in delivering the development. Once complete, Palm Jebel Ali will offer vibrant, mixed-use neighbourhoods, state-of-the-art mobility solutions, and a range of lifestyle amenities, solidifying its place as a cornerstone of Dubai's future growth. News Source: Emirates News Agency
Gulf Today
16-06-2025
- Business
- Gulf Today
Nakheel awards over Dhs750 million in contracts for Palm Jebel Ali infrastructure works
Nakheel, part of Dubai Holding Real Estate, has awarded three major contracts, collectively valued at over Dhs750 million, for infrastructure works on Palm Jebel Ali, which are scheduled for completion in Q4 2026. The contracts, awarded to DBB Contracting LLC, mark a significant milestone in the ongoing development of the landmark waterfront destination in Dubai. DBB Contracting LLC has an established track-record of working on Palm Jebel Ali, having previously been contracted to undertake other infrastructure projects on the island, including provision for public access and road construction. Setting a global benchmark in waterfront living, Palm Jebel Ali is one of Nakheel's most visionary projects, offering an exceptional breadth of lifestyle amenities that will significantly contribute to Dubai's future growth over the next few decades. Revealed by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, Palm Jebel Ali supports the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 and marks the beginning of a new growth corridor in the Jebel Ali area, underlining the expansion of the emirate. Khalid Al Malik, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Holding Real Estate, said: 'Palm Jebel Ali exemplifies Dubai's ambition to redefine global waterfront living through an innovative luxury lifestyle mega project. The iconic development is set to transform the city's urban landscape in alignment with the leadership's vision to create a world-class destination that will attract residents, tourists and investors. We are pleased to extend our association with DBB Contracting LLC, a partner whose proven expertise and unwavering dedication to quality will help ensure the successful delivery of this important project." Eugene Terreblanche, General Manager, DBB Contracting LCC, added: 'DBB Contracting LCC is proud to be part of this landmark project and is excited to collaborate with Nakheel in shaping the future of Dubai. With our expertise and commitment to excellence, we look forward to bringing this visionary development to life.' The comprehensive infrastructure scope encompasses Fronds A to G, including utility connections, all associated ground works for excavation and backfilling as well as road and pavement construction. It also entails all related utility works for 11kV power distribution and telecoms. The Spine District's infrastructure works include utility mains, connection to all utility links on the fronds and all major and secondary road construction. The scope also consists of rough grading for the DEWA power transmission line serving Palm Jebel Ali, including associated works. Spanning 13.4 kilometres, Palm Jebel Ali's seven islands feature 16 fronds and over 90 kilometres of beachfront, directly supporting the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan's commitment to expand public beach access. The development is set to establish a new standard for waterfront living with several mixed-use pedestrian-friendly neighbourhoods offering panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf. Residents and visitors will enjoy diverse recreational spaces, the latest smart city technologies and sustainable practices, complemented by seamless mobility solutions that enhance connectivity for residents, visitors and the surrounding community. WAM
