Latest news with #urbandevelopment
Zawya
11 hours ago
- Business
- Zawya
Arabian Gulf Properties champions visionary urban development in support of Dubai 2040 agenda
Dubai, UAE: Arabian Gulf Properties, one of the UAE's forward-looking real estate developers, has reiterated its support for the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, affirming its dedication to driving responsible and community-focused development. Under the leadership of Chairman Badar Rashid Alblooshi, the company continues to play an active role in the national dialogue around urban transformation, placing emphasis on the creation of integrated and inclusive communities that reflect the evolving aspirations of residents in the UAE. As cities expand and population dynamics shift, the need for future-ready, human-centered development has never been greater. Arabian Gulf Properties recognizes this moment as a defining opportunity for the private sector to partner with government in translating strategic urban visions into tangible, high-quality living environments. The company has signaled its intent to contribute to this transformation through a development philosophy that prioritizes livability, smart design, and long-term value creation. Commenting on the evolving role of developers, Badar Rashid Alblooshi said: 'As developers, we have a responsibility to go beyond construction — we must help shape cities that are inclusive, resilient, and designed for the future. The Dubai 2040 vision is a call to all of us in the private sector to think boldly, act responsibly, and contribute meaningfully to the urban narrative of this country.' Arabian Gulf Properties continues to explore new avenues for growth and collaboration that support dynamic, mixed-use destinations and urban experiences aligned with the UAE's ambition to build globally competitive, innovation-led cities. With a growing portfolio and a commitment to quality, the company remains focused on developments that foster social cohesion, enhance quality of life, and reflect the UAE's long-term strategic objectives. As the country charts its next phase of economic and social growth, Arabian Gulf Properties stands ready to support national priorities through thoughtful, people-first development and sustained private sector leadership.
Zawya
15 hours ago
- Business
- Zawya
Dubai's RTA announces street improvement project from Sheikh Zayed Road to Al Wasl Street intersections
DUBAI: Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) announces Al Safa Street Improvement Project. The scope of this project extends from the junction of Al Safa Street with Sheikh Zayed Road to the junction with Al Wasl Street, spanning 1,500 metres. It is designed to keep pace with Dubai's comprehensive urban growth, accommodate the increasing population and urban expansion, and elevate the quality of life for both residents and visitors. The project involves the construction of two bridges and two tunnels with a combined length of 3,120 metres, along with the widening of surface roads and upgrades to intersections and traffic signal systems. Once complete, the travel time on Al Safa Street will reduce from 12 minutes to just 3 minutes, and the street's capacity will double from 6,000 to 12,000 vehicles per hour in both directions. Mattar Al Tayer, Director General, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority, stated: 'Al Safa Street Improvement Project is part of RTA's master plan to enhance the road network in the area, which also includes the development of Umm Suqeim and Al Wasl Streets.' 'The project serves a vital district renowned for hosting numerous tourism, cultural, and sporting events, and is home to key landmarks such as City Walk, Coca-Cola Arena, educational institutions, residential and commercial areas, luxury hotels, and high-end restaurants. It also enhances connectivity with Downtown Dubai and nearby developments along Financial Centre Street, an area inhabited by over one million residents. 'The project places strong emphasis on creative and aesthetic elements, including the development of dedicated pedestrian walkways and cycling tracks, vibrant urban spaces that encourage community interaction, and the integration of a dynamic public realm enhanced by landscaped areas,' Al Tayer said. Al Tayer added: 'The project covers the development of Al Safa Street from its intersection with Sheikh Zayed Road to its intersection with Al Wasl Street and includes the construction of two bridges.' 'The first bridge will serve traffic coming from Al Wasl Street towards Sheikh Zayed Road and Financial Centre Street. It will comprise four lanes and span 1,005 metres, with an estimated capacity of 6,400 vehicles per hour." 'The second bridge will accommodate traffic coming from Al Satwa Road towards Sheikh Zayed Road and Financial Centre Street. It will feature two lanes and extend 360 metres, with a capacity of 2,800 vehicles per hour.' He revealed: 'The project also includes the construction of two tunnels. The first tunnel will serve traffic coming from Sheikh Zayed Road and Financial Centre Street towards Al Wasl Street. It will span 1,005 metres, comprise two lanes, and offer a capacity of 3,200 vehicles per hour.' 'The second tunnel will be located at the intersection of Al Wasl Street and Al Safa Street, extending 750 metres. It will feature two lanes in each direction, with a total capacity of approximately 6,400 vehicles per hour.' Al Tayer further explained: 'The project also involves widening Al Safa Street from three signalised lanes in each direction to four lanes—two providing free-flowing movement and two managed by traffic signals.' 'It also includes the development of dedicated pedestrian walkways and cycling tracks, the creation of vibrant urban spaces, and landscaped areas. Additional works cover upgrades to lighting systems, directional signage, the rainwater drainage network, and the protection and relocation of existing utility services.' Upon completion, the project will enhance traffic flow from the Upper Deck of Financial Centre Street and Sheikh Zayed Road towards Al Safa Street and Al Wasl Street, and vice versa. It will also strengthen connectivity across key arterial corridors in the area and elevate overall traffic safety standards.' Al Tayer continued: 'Al Safa Street Improvement Project is part of RTA's broader master plan to upgrade the road network in the area. This includes the development of Al Wasl Street from its intersection with Umm Suqeim Street to its intersection with 2nd December Street, covering 15 km in length, as well as the development of Umm Suqeim Street from the junction with Jumeirah Street to the intersection with Al Khail Road, spanning 6 km.' 'Al Wasl Street development project includes upgrades to six intersections, involving the enhancement of one existing junction and the construction of five tunnels with a total length of 3,850 metres. It also entails widening the road from two to three lanes in each direction. The project is expected to reduce travel time along Al Wasl Street by 50% and increase its capacity from 8,000 to 12,000 vehicles per hour in both directions.' 'The Umm Suqeim Street development project includes upgrades to six key intersections along the corridor, specifically with Jumeirah Street, Al Wasl Street, Sheikh Zayed Road, First Al Khail Road, Al Asayel Street, and Al Khail Road. The project also involves the construction of four bridges and three tunnels, with a total combined length of 4,100 metres. He concluded: 'The project will enhance connectivity between four strategic corridors in the Emirate—Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Khail Road, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, and Emirates Road. It will also increase the street's capacity to 16,000 vehicles per hour in both directions, significantly improving traffic flow and reducing travel time between Jumeirah Street and Al Khail Road from 20 minutes to just 6 minutes.'
Sustainability Times
16 hours ago
- General
- Sustainability Times
'Wall of Death for Birds': Saudi Arabia's 105-Mile Mirror Megastructure Will Obliterate Wildlife Along Vital Migration Routes
IN A NUTSHELL 🌍 The Line project in Saudi Arabia is a transformative urban initiative spanning 105 miles, aiming to redefine city living with sustainability. project in Saudi Arabia is a transformative urban initiative spanning 105 miles, aiming to redefine city living with sustainability. 🦅 Environmental concerns arise due to the project's impact on migratory bird routes, as the mirrored exterior poses a collision risk for birds. 🚧 Construction delays are anticipated, with only 300,000 residents expected by 2030, far fewer than the planned nine million. ⚖️ The project highlights the challenge of balancing innovation with ecological preservation, sparking global discussions on sustainable urban development. The ambitious Line project in Saudi Arabia is stirring a significant dialogue across the globe. As part of the Vision 2030 initiative, this 105-mile long urban endeavor promises to redefine city living through cutting-edge design and eco-friendly technology. Yet, amidst its futuristic allure, the project is shadowed by environmental concerns, particularly the threat it poses to migratory birds. This article explores the immense ambition driving The Line, the potential ecological repercussions, and the broader implications for urban development in harmony with nature. The Scale and Ambition of The Line Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 has set the stage for groundbreaking transformations, with The Line being a centerpiece of this initiative. Spanning 105 miles and soaring 1,640 feet, this linear city aims to accommodate nine million residents. Its mirrored facade is designed to seamlessly integrate with the desert landscape, embodying a commitment to advanced sustainability. The city promises to be a beacon of eco-conscious innovation, showcasing how urban living can evolve in tandem with technological progress. However, this impressive ambition is not without its challenges. The project has drawn significant scrutiny from environmentalists who fear its impact on the surrounding ecosystems. The towering walls of glass, integral to the city's aesthetic, could pose lethal threats to bird populations migrating along this critical corridor. The reflective surfaces, while visually striking, risk becoming deadly obstacles for avian species mistaking them for open sky or water. Thus, while the project aims to lead in urban innovation, it also faces the daunting task of addressing these environmental concerns. 'America's First Nuclear Reactor in 50 Years': This Ultra-Compact Power Source Will Deliver Electricity Where No Grid Can Reach Environmental Implications and Avian Threats The environmental implications of The Line are profound, particularly concerning the region's migratory bird routes. Each year, billions of birds traverse this area, relying on it as a key passage between their seasonal habitats. The mirrored exterior of The Line stands as a potential hazard, as birds often collide with reflective surfaces that they mistake for natural elements. Environmental assessments have underscored the dangers posed by such a design. Experts emphasize that the project must reconcile its urban ambitions with the preservation of natural habitats. The threat to birdlife is not just a matter of individual species loss; it represents a broader challenge to maintaining ecological balance. As The Line advances, the question looms: can urban development and environmental preservation coexist without detrimental consequences? 'Deepest Hole on Earth': Quaise Energy Unveils Revolutionary Wave Drilling Tech to Pierce the Planet's Crust Like Never Before Construction Hurdles and Project Delays In addition to ecological concerns, The Line is grappling with substantial construction delays. Initially slated to house nine million residents by 2030, projections now suggest that only 300,000 individuals will reside there by the deadline. These delays stem from the complex task of developing such a vast project in an environmentally sensitive region. Beyond logistical challenges, the project is a flashpoint for debates on urban growth versus environmental stewardship. The ambitious scope of The Line prompts critical questions: Can large-scale urbanization coexist with nature conservation? What ecological costs are we prepared to bear for the promise of futuristic cities? As construction moves forward, these questions remain at the forefront of discussions on the project's feasibility and impact. Japan Stuns the World with 310,000-Ton Oil Behemoth That Shatters Records and Reinvents the Future of Energy Transport Balancing Innovation and Ecological Preservation The Line project embodies the intricate balance between human innovation and environmental care. While poised to usher in a new era of urban living, its ecological footprint and impact on local wildlife cannot be ignored. The massive construction endeavors threaten to overshadow its potential benefits, especially concerning migratory birds. As we look toward the future, the challenge lies in innovating without compromising the natural world. Can sustainable cities emerge without sacrificing the ecosystems that sustain our planet's biodiversity? The Line may serve as both a symbol of progress and a cautionary tale, illustrating the environmental consequences of unchecked development. As Saudi Arabia strives to bring this visionary project to life, the world watches closely, pondering the potential outcomes of such a daring venture. In examining The Line, we confront a critical question: how can we pursue technological dreams while ensuring the protection of our natural environment? The unfolding story of this urban experiment invites reflection on the balance between progress and preservation, urging us to consider the future we wish to build. What lessons will we learn from Saudi Arabia's ambitious endeavor, and how will they shape our approach to sustainable development? Our author used artificial intelligence to enhance this article. Did you like it? 4.6/5 (22)
Arabian Business
a day ago
- Business
- Arabian Business
Dubai slashes travel time on major road from 12 to 3 minutes with new tunnels and bridges
Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has launched the Al Safa Street Improvement Project, a major infrastructure upgrade aimed at cutting travel time, enhancing traffic flow, and supporting the Emirate's rapid urban development. The project, extending 1.5km from the junction of Al Safa Street with Sheikh Zayed Road to Al Wasl Street, is designed to accommodate population growth and elevate quality of life across key districts. Once complete, the travel time on Al Safa Street will drop from 12 minutes to just 3 minutes, while road capacity will double from 6,000 to 12,000 vehicles per hour in both directions. New bridges and tunnels in Dubai The project includes the construction of two bridges and two tunnels, with a total length of 3.12km: Bridge 1: Four lanes, 1,005 metres, for traffic from Al Wasl Street to Sheikh Zayed Road and Financial Centre Street. Capacity with an estimated capacity of 6,400 vehicles/hour Bridge 2: Two lanes, 360 metres, for traffic from Al Satwa Road. Capacity with an estimated capacity of 2,800 vehicles/hour Tunnel 1: Two lanes, 1,005 metres, for traffic from Sheikh Zayed Road towards Al Wasl Street. Capacity with an estimated capacity of 3,200 vehicles/hour Tunnel 2: Two lanes in each direction, 750 metres, at Al Wasl and Al Safa junction. Capacity with an estimated capacity of 6,400 vehicles/hour The road itself will be widened from three to four lanes in each direction, with two free-flowing and two signal-controlled lanes. In addition to easing congestion, the RTA plans to improve pedestrian walkways, introduce cycling tracks, and create landscaped public spaces to enhance community interaction and visual appeal. The project also includes upgrades to lighting, signage, drainage, and utilities. Mattar Al Tayer, Director General, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority, said: 'Al Safa Street Improvement Project is part of RTA's master plan to enhance the road network in the area, which also includes the development of Umm Suqeim and Al Wasl Streets. 'The project serves a vital district, renowned for hosting numerous tourism, cultural, and sporting events, and is home to key landmarks such as City Walk, Coca-Cola Arena, educational institutions, residential and commercial areas, luxury hotels, and high-end restaurants. 'It also enhances connectivity with Downtown Dubai and nearby developments along Financial Centre Street, an area inhabited by over one million residents.' Dubai traffic plan The Al Safa upgrade is part of a wider master plan that also includes: Al Wasl Street development Covers 15km from Umm Suqeim Street to 2nd December Street Involves six intersections, five new tunnels (total 3.85km), and road widening to three lanes per direction Travel time cut by 50 per cent, capacity increased to 12,000 vehicles/hour Umm Suqeim Street Development Spans 6km, linking Jumeirah Street to Al Khail Road Includes six intersection upgrades, four bridges, and three tunnels (total 4.1km) Travel time reduced from 20 minutes to 6 minutes, road capacity up to 16,000 vehicles/hour Once completed, these developments will improve connectivity across Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Khail Road, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, and Emirates Road, boosting Dubai's overall mobility and economic competitiveness. #RTA announced Al Safa Street Improvement Project, extending from the junction of Al Safa Street with Sheikh Zayed Road to the junction with Al Wasl Street, spanning 1,500 metres. It involves the construction of two bridges and two tunnels with a combined length of 3,120 metres,… — RTA (@rta_dubai) June 29, 2025
Yahoo
a day ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Edmonton city council extends downtown revitalization levy to 2044
Edmonton city council voted Friday evening to extend its divisive downtown revitalization levy another decade, following a two-day public hearing into the matter. The 9-4 vote came after council heard from dozens of citizens speaking for and against the levy. Those who signed up to speak represented various parts of the downtown community, including citizens, non-profits, business owners and post-secondary institutions. "Every North American downtown, coming out of COVID, has struggled," Mayor Amarjeet Sohi said during Friday's hearing, before the vote. "This council has shown a very strong commitment to bring more activity, more life into downtown, and more vibrancy into downtown." The package of proposed projects in the Capital City Downtown Community Revitalization Levy (CRL), which includes a partnership opportunity with the Alberta government and OEG Sports and Entertainment, which owns the Edmonton Oilers, "allows us to build on that success," Sohi said. "The time is to act, and to act now," he said. "These kinds of opportunities don't come our way all the time." Friday's vote means the downtown CRL, established in 2015, will be in place until 2044. It was set to expire in 2034. The levy lets the municipality borrow money from the provincial government against future property tax revenues to help pay for development in the downtown area. The city has two other CRLs to finance development in other areas. Downtown has seen $4.7 billion in new development since the CRL started, the city said in a news release Friday evening. With the extension, the release said, the city will consider spending money from the CRL on seven new or updated projects, such as expanding the Winspear Centre, improving transit infrastructure and remediating brownfield. But there's conflict around the downtown CRL and its use of taxpayer dollars to fund private projects — namely, a proposed event park beside Rogers Place, the Oilers' home stadium. Nita Jalkanen, who lives in the Parkdale neighbourhood, is among the Edmontonians who spoke against the CRL extension, suggesting taxpayers have been pouring money into the pockets of Daryl Katz, OEG's founder and chairman. "It's our money that's being spent like water," Jalkanen said. The park would be one of three major projects wrapped into an agreement between the city, provincial government and OEG. In March, the parties announced they had signed a memorandum of understanding, signalling a willingness to move forward with the project while negotiations continue to finalize the deal. Details of the MOU suggested the event park would cost $250 million, about one-third of which — $84 million — would be covered by OEG. The MOU also includes money to build 2,500 new housing units in the Village at Ice District, just north of Rogers Place, and demolish the Coliseum — the Oilers' former arena — and improve the Exhibition Lands area. Before Friday's vote, Ward pihêsiwin Coun. Tim Cartmell expressed that he finds the notion that OEG unduly benefits from the levy to be misplaced. "Everything we do, in terms of the CRL, benefits a private landowner in some way, in some form. So it's really a matter of scale, and we happen to have one landowner who's a public figure," said Cartmell, who is also a mayoral candidate in the upcoming civic election. Ward Anirniq Coun. Erin Rutherford, one of four council members who opposed, voted based on whether she felt locking in CRL funding for another 10 years was right, she told council Friday. "Our theory of change is fallible," Rutherford said. She felt the downtown CRL doesn't align with city initiatives to keep businesses from leaving, nor that it addresses social disorder, she said. "There's still not going to be vibrancy," she said, noting that residents from the McCauley neighbourhood and Edmonton's Chinatown have raised concerns to council. "Not everybody is seeing the benefit of this," she said.
