Dubai is making significant strides toward sustainability with its new Super Block initiative, which aims to transform residential areas into car-free zones. Announced as part of the city's broader vision for a greener future, the initiative will prioritize pedestrians and cyclists by increasing green spaces and fostering social interaction through shared public spaces.
Key residential areas, including Al Fahidi, Abu Hail, Al Karama and Al Quoz Creative Zone, will be converted into pro-pedestrian neighborhoods, reducing vehicular traffic and promoting eco-friendly mobility. The initiative aligns with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, which focuses on sustainable urban development and infrastructure enhancement.
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, announced the initiative on social media platform X. This follows Dubai’s recent unveiling of plans for the world’s tallest well-being resort as part of the Dubai Quality of Life Strategy 2033. The project, called Therme Dubai, will be developed at Zabeel Park with an allocated budget of Dh2 billion. When it opens in 2028, it will feature the world’s largest indoor botanical garden and an interactive park, with an expected 1.7 million visitors annually.
Dubai is also working on an extensive 6,500-kilometer pedestrian network designed to promote soft mobility and reduce carbon emissions. The Dubai Walk master plan includes the construction of 3,300 kilometers of new walkways and the rehabilitation of 2,300 kilometers of existing paths by 2040, with an additional 900 kilometers planned beyond 2040. The network will offer residents and tourists a more scenic and sustainable way to navigate the city.
In a major environmental effort, 216,500 trees were planted across Dubai in 2024, marking a 17 percent increase from the previous year. Green spaces expanded by 391.5 hectares, a 57 percent growth, through afforestation and landscaping projects. Dubai Municipality also introduced 5.3 million seedlings of flowers and ornamental plants, replacing 45 million seasonal flowers over three cycles throughout the year.
Through these urban development projects, Dubai continues to establish itself as a global leader in sustainable city planning, infrastructure innovation and environmental conservation.