A comprehensive urban development plan for Dubai is laid out in the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan. Over the next 18 years, the plan aims to increase happiness among citizens, residents, and visitors and reinforce Dubai as a global travel destination. Dubai’s strategic economic priorities and future needs were integrated and aligned with the plan’s strategic structural layout.
There have been seven development plans for Dubai since 1960, and Dubai 2040 is the seventh. From 35,000 people in 1960 to 3.5 million in 2022, Dubai’s population has multiplied almost 80 times while its built area has grown 170-fold from 3.2 square km.
Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan – Key Objectives
The Dubai 2040 Urban Master plan has the following key objectives:
- Upgrading the urban areas of Deira and Bur Dubai, Downtown and Business Bay, Dubai Marina, and JBR, and constructing two new centers – Expo 2020 Center and Dubai Silicon Oasis Center.
- Utilize resources more efficiently.
- Providing residents and visitors with a healthy environment by developing vibrant, healthy, and inclusive communities.
- Ensure a flexible and sustainable transportation system.
- Develop new sectors for foreign investment and encourage greater economic activity.
- Maintain a sustainable environment.
- Enhance citizens’ attachment to the older neighborhoods and preserve the emirate’s cultural heritage.
- In order to support sustainable development and growth, legislation and governance models need to be developed.
Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan – Outcomes
The Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan will help Dubai achieve the following outcomes by 2040:
- There will be a doubled amount of green space and recreational areas.
- 60 percent of the emirate’s total area will be made up of nature reserves and rural natural areas.
- In order to link the residential areas, workplaces, and service areas, a number of green corridors will be constructed.
- A variety of sustainable mobility options will be made available to pedestrians, cyclists, and other forms of mobility across the city.
- Approximately 134 square kilometers will be dedicated to hotels and tourist activities, and 168 square kilometers will be devoted to commercial activities.
- There will be a 25% increase in educational and health facilities’ land area.
- Approximately 400 percent more beach length will be available to the public.
Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan – Other Aspects
Besides providing a comprehensive planning database to support decision-making and enhance transparency, the Master Plan encourages mass transit use, walking, and cycling.
Hatta Development Plan, which directs the comprehensive development of the area, is integrated into the Dubai Urban Master Plan 2040.
Integrated sustainable housing complexes in Dubai will also be developed to meet citizens’ needs. Green spaces, commercial centers, and recreational facilities will be provided in integrated communities in Dubai according to the highest standards of planning.
Dubai’s Vision 2040 defines future investment by establishing two new residential and business zones including Expo 2020 Dubai. A research and technology center would also be developed at Dubai Silicon Oasis, according to the proposals. Dubai’s legacy and culture will be preserved in Deira and Bur Dubai. Business Bay and Downtown Dubai will be the emirate’s financial centers. A tourism and entertainment hub is envisaged for Dubai Marina and JBR in the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan.
The Takeaway:
Ultimately, the 2040 Urban Master Plan strives to enhance the city’s economy, increase happiness, and boost its future. Infrastructural changes and legislation will enable Dubai to cement its position as one of the world’s best cities.