Dubai has unveiled a new phase of infrastructure development that includes aerial taxis, an expanded 131 km rail network, and The Future Loop, a climate-controlled pedestrian system forming part of the Dubai Walk Master Plan.
The projects were reviewed by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, during a meeting with Mattar Al Tayer, Director General, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed said that Dubai’s continued investment in infrastructure represents an investment in its people and its future, in line with the vision of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
Future Dubai transport plans
He noted that these projects reflect a forward-looking strategy to create a connected, sustainable city powered by innovation, aligned with the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33.
Sheikh Hamdan added that Dubai’s approach to urban development is based on long-term planning, agility, and sustainability, integrating technology into every aspect of infrastructure to set new global benchmarks for smart and resilient city design.
Aerial taxis to launch passenger transport in 2026
Mattar Al Tayer briefed Sheikh Hamdan on the progress of the Aerial Taxi project, with operational trials conducted by Joby Aviation Inc. in Dubai’s desert area. The company recently completed the first crewed flight of its electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft between two distinct locations.
During a test flight coinciding with the Dubai Airshow 2025, the aircraft took off from Margham and landed at Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC).
This milestone marks a pivotal step in expanding testing to urban areas, paving the way for passenger transport services to commence in 2026, in coordination with the General Civil Aviation Authority and Dubai Civil Aviation Authority.
The fully electric aircraft features six propellers and four independent battery packs, offering a flight range of 160 km and a top speed of 320kmph.
It accommodates four passengers plus a pilot, combining speed, safety, and environmental efficiency.
Vertiports: Preparing Dubai’s aerial mobility infrastructure
RTA has also advanced work on constructing Aerial Taxi Vertiports, with Skyports Infrastructure developing the first facility near Dubai International Airport (DXB).
Covering 3,100sqm across four levels, the facility includes two floors for parking, two take-off and landing pads, and fully air-conditioned passenger areas.
Coordination is also underway with property developers to integrate additional vertiports within new urban projects.
Metro network to expand to 131km by 2029
The number of stations will rise from 64 to 78, including 67 Metro stations and 11 Tram stations, while the fleet will grow from 140 to 168 trains.
72 new projects and 226 km of new roads by 2027
RTA’s plan to enhance integration across Dubai’s transport network includes 72 projects scheduled for completion by 2027, spanning 226 km of roads and 115 bridges and tunnels across key development zones.
The plan also covers 11 major corridors to strengthen connectivity and improve traffic efficiency across the emirate.
The Future Loop: A pedestrian-first urban vision
The Future Loop Project, part of the Dubai Walk Master Plan, aims to make Dubai a pedestrian-friendly city year-round by developing 3,300km of new walkways and rehabilitating 2,300km of existing routes by 2040. A further 900km of routes are planned beyond 2040.
The plan also includes 110 pedestrian bridges and tunnels, targeting an increase in individual mobility from 13 per cent to 25 per cent by 2040.
A central feature of the Future Loop is a 2 km-long iconic bridge, connecting major economic and business landmarks such as the Dubai World Trade Centre, Museum of the Future, Emirates Towers, and Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC).
The bridge includes a climate-controlled upper level covering 30,000 square metres, ensuring comfort year-round, along with 30,000 square metres of shaded outdoor areas designed to reduce ambient temperatures and enhance walkability.
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