Recent statements by Union Minister Nitin Gadkari have brought Dubai’s road infrastructure into focus. The claim that Dubai’s Crown Prince showed interest in Gadkari’s expertise has spurred public curiosity about the city’s road systems.
Dubai’s Approach to Road Design
Dubai prioritizes the safety and convenience of pedestrians and cyclists, going beyond the creation of wide, contemporary roads. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) actively invests in pedestrian infrastructure.
Infrastructure Enhancements
The city has seen a significant increase in pedestrian bridges and underpasses since 2006, with a 581% rise. Several new bridges are under construction, with a target of 23 more by 2030. These bridges connect residential areas to key locations, encouraging pedestrian and cyclist travel.
Impact on Road Safety
The RTA reports a dramatic decrease in road fatalities. Pedestrian deaths have significantly decreased, from 9.5 per 100,000 people in 2007 to just 0.3 in 2024. Pedestrian satisfaction has also improved. The number of pedestrians is increasing, with a noticeable increase in pedestrian trips.
Advanced Bridge Features
The bridges are engineered for both safety and visual appeal. They incorporate advanced features like elevators, remote monitoring, and fire alarms. These structures showcase innovative designs and provide access to cultural sites.
Dubai’s Zero Fatalities Vision
Dubai is committed to eliminating road fatalities by providing safe pedestrian routes, dedicated bridges, and encouraging cycling and e-scooter usage.
Smart Technology and Road Maintenance
Dubai uses advanced technologies, including AI and laser systems, to maintain high-quality roads. Special vehicles use lasers to detect road imperfections, and a high-precision system measures road smoothness using the International Roughness Index (IRI). Dubai’s IRI score of 0.9 reflects the high quality of its road surfaces.
Cleanliness Standards
Dubai is recognized as one of the cleanest cities globally, employing over 3,200 cleaning engineers and supervisors. They maintain roads, investment zones, and waterways. This commitment results in roads that are smooth, safe, and exceptionally clean.