As part of the Road and Transport Authority’s ongoing project to create dedicated cycling and running tracks throughout the emirate, the RTA has announced the opening of a further 32 km of cycle tracks in three key areas of Dubai. Opening in early February and at a total cost of Dhs 67 million, the new tracks will serve cyclists in the areas of Mushrif, Mirdif and Al Khawaneej. Included in the project are the construction of two bridges over Academic City and Al Khawaneej Streets for use by both cyclists and pedestrians.
This extra 32 km of cycle track adds to the 218 km already constructed by the RTA over recent years. And with another 234 km of cycle tracks in the plan to be constructed and completed by 2021, the RTA is firmly on track to have constructed cycle tracks of around 500 km total in length.
"The construction of cycling and running tracks in Dubai is a manifestation of the directives of the Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.” said Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the RTA, "It is also an implementation of the instructions of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of Dubai Sports Council, to provide suitable options for encouraging residents to practice sports exercises and cycling. We aim to provide residential districts with an infrastructure that encourages residents to practice sports as it has immense health benefits to people."
Areas now already served by cycle tracks include Al Qudra Street, Jumeirah Street, King Salman bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud Street, Mankhool Street and Dubai Water Canal. Over the next few years, as well as the three new areas announced, cycle tracks will also be constructed in areas including Jumeirah Beach, Downtown, Jebel Ali, Nad Al Sheba, Al Quoz, Karama, Oud Metha, Al Qusais, Barsha and the Expo 2020 site.