Category: Article

Striking new images of a planned Dh1 billion Dubai residential community, which will be home to more than 200 waterfront properties, have been released.

South Bay, which will be constructed along Expo Road, will feature more than 800 villas and town houses, a 1km-long crystal lagoon, a 3km waterfront promenade and several beaches.

The luxury lifestyle scheme, which is being overseen by Dubai South Properties, is one of a number of significant projects taking shape in the emirate.

It is based in the Residential District within Dubai South, where ambitious plans for residential areas at Expo City Dubai are also gathering pace.

Renderings of South Bay were released by Dubai Media Office on Tuesday.

Sales will begin in September, but prospective buyers are already able to register their interest.

Starting prices for villas and town houses are listed from Dh2.7 million on the Dubai South Properties website, with handover earmarked for the final quarter of 2025.

Five-bed semi-detached properties are priced from Dh3.45 million, with five to 7-bed villas and mansions available from Dh5.6 million.

Dubai South Properties announced that Ginco General Contracting had been appointed to develop the initial phases of the scheme.

Expo residences

In March, Expo City Dubai offered a first glimpse of two new housing developments promoting sustainable living.

Renderings of Expo Central’s Mangroves Residences and Expo Valley were been unveiled before the opening of a sales centre in the Sustainability District that month.

The major residential projects are central to the transformation of the sprawling world’s fair site into a vibrant neighbourhood of apartments, town houses and villas, as well as 10km of cycling tracks, a 5km running track, children’s playgrounds and 45,000 square metres of parks and gardens.

Expo City Dubai districts are free from cars and single-use plastics. The design has retained 80 per cent of the original infrastructure, including 123 buildings.

Approximately one-third of the 4.38 square kilometre site has so far been built on.

Dubai’s future takes shape

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, last week approved a new master plan for Palm Jebel Ali – which will occupy an area twice the size of Palm Jumeirah.

The long-planned tourist attraction – spearheaded by leading developer Nakheel – will include 80 hotels and resorts, green spaces and other leisure and retail amenities spanning 13.4 square kilometres.

The project will add about 110km of coastline to Dubai, offering beachside living to 35,000 families.

The scheme aims to become an “aspirational residential destination in the city”, Dubai Media Office reported.

It is part of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, unveiled by Sheikh Mohammed last year to meet the needs of Dubai’s growing population and allow the emirate to achieve the lofty goals of its development plan.

Dubai Land Department Rental Dispute Centre shows off high-tech digital services at GITEX Global 2023

Dubai Land Department Rental Dispute Centre shows off high-tech digital services at GITEX Global 2023 Dubai Land Department Rental Dispute Centre shows off high-tech digital services at GITEX Global 2023
Dubai rental disputes can be heard in the metaverse and AI-powered robot judges oversee legal hearings, after new technology has been introduced.

Dubai Land Department’s Rental Dispute Centre (RDC) is showcasing its comprehensive and updated digital initiatives during its participation at GITEX Global 2023.

‘Aani’, an instant payments platform operated by Al Etihad Payments, a subsidiary of the Central Bank of the UAE. Picture used for illustrative purposes.

How does the Aani platform work?

Aani only allows domestic transfers with licensed financial institutions in the UAE. So far, only eight UAE-based banks and financial institutions have partnered with the platform.

The instant money transfer system is only accessible through the smartphone applications of the participating banks. You can also download the Aani mobile app, which is available for Apple and Android devices. However to use the app, you must have an account with one of the eight licensed financial institutions.

The eight licensed financial institutions partnered with Aani are:

• Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank
• Al Fardan Exchange
• Emirates NBD
• Finance House
• First Abu Dhabi Bank
• Habib Bank AG Zurich
• Mashreq Bank
• National Bank of Fujairah

Al Etihad Payments is planning to onboard more licensed financial institutions to join Aani by the end of 2024.

How to use Aani to transfer money

Step 1: Enrol for the Aani system through your bank’s mobile app:

If you have an account with one of the participating banks, you can enrol for Aani. Although the process for the enrolment is different for each bank, you must download the bank’s app and select the account (savings or current) you want linked to Aani. Once that is done, confirm your personal details like your Emirates ID and mobile number and enter your security PIN number or online banking password. As stated, the process may vary slightly depending on your bank.

Step 2: Receive the confirmation

Once you have successfully completed the first step, you will receive a confirmation via email from your bank that you have successfully enrolled on the Aani platform.

Now, you can start using the platform to transfer or receive money from other Aani users.

In order to do so, simply go to the ‘Transfers’ section on your bank’s smartphone application and you will find different services related to Aani listed on the app. These include:

1. Send money
2. Request money
3. Scan and Pay
4. Pending requests
5. Split bill

According to Al Etihad Payments the processing fee for transferring money will be determined by the individual financial institution.

The Federal Tax Authority (FTA) in the UAE has provided clarity on the criteria for determining non-residents subject to corporate tax

Non-Resident Persons for Corporate Tax Purposes in UAE
The Federal Tax Authority (FTA) in the UAE has announced a new guide for the criteria for determining non-residents subject to corporate tax in the country.

This clarification comes as part of the corporate tax law, which came into effect on June 1, 2023.

In a statement, the FTA invited all non-residents who derive income in the UAE to consult the new guidelines and the relevant legal framework on their official website.

For non-resident natural persons

According to the FTA’s guide, a non-resident may be subject to corporate tax under specific conditions.

For natural persons, two cases apply. The first is if a natural person has a Permanent Establishment in the UAE and a Turnover exceeding AED1,000,000 during a calendar year. The second is if they derive State-Sourced Income from the Emirates.

For non-resident juridical persons (corporations)

Non-resident juridical persons (corporations) must meet specific criteria to be subject to Corporate Tax.

These include having a Permanent Establishment in the UAE, deriving State-Sourced Income, or having a nexus in the UAE, such as earning income from Immovable Property in the country.

The guide also specifies the need for non-resident juridical persons to register for Corporate Tax purposes and obtain a Tax Registration Number (TRN) when they meet the relevant criteria. This is crucial to avoid compliance delays and possible administrative penalties.

Moreover, the FTA clarified that Corporate Tax registration is not required for Non-Resident juridical persons who solely derive State-Sourced Income and do not have a Permanent Establishment or nexus in the Emirates.

Additionally, the guide outlines that a Non-Resident natural person is required to register for Corporate Tax purposes and obtain a TRN if their Turnover attributable to their Permanent Establishment in the UAE exceeds AED1,000,000 within a calendar year.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, took to X to announce the Dubai Social Agenda D33 on Thursday.
Image Credit: X

Dubai: His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, today launched the Dubai Social Agenda 33 for the decade until 2033, highlighting the theme of ‘Family: The Foundation of Our Nation’.

The launch of the Dubai Social Agenda 33 follows his tradition of unveiling promising national programmes and projects on January 4 of every year, which marks the anniversary of his accession as the Ruler of Dubai.

Sheikh Mohammed said: “As has become our custom to unveil promising national programmes and projects on January 4 of every year, today we announce the launch of the Dubai Social Agenda 33: our plan for the Dubai community over the next decade. Its theme is ‘Family: The Foundation of Our Nation’, and its budget is Dh208 billion until 2033. Its target is our Emirati families in Dubai and all aspects of their lives, in terms of housing, quality of life, identity and values, social cohesion and healthcare, as well as equipping the new generation with future skills.

“We aim to double the number of Emirati families within a decade, provide residential neighbourhoods that offer the world’s highest standard of living and safeguard our young generation against negative ideas that threaten the stability of our families. The Dubai Social Agenda outlines clear objectives and programmes based on the allocated budget, and will be overseen by my sons Hamdan, Maktoum, Ahmed and their brothers who grew up as part of the larger Dubai family and will care about its wellbeing more than anyone else. Our nation is not merely buildings and figures; it is made up of families and people. My message to everyone in charge is that our priority for the next stage is to protect, empower and support our families.”

He said, “Today we launch the Dubai Social Agenda 33 with family at the centre: its formation and values, its protection and empowerment, its health and education. Because family is the foundation of the nation, and our vision is to create healthy stable families capable of nurturing a generation that believes in its abilities, is connected to its identity and ready for the future.
Source : Gulf News

Source : Khaleej times
The UAE will examine a proposal to construct a new federal highway that would connect all seven emirates. If approved and constructed, this will take the number of pan-UAE highways to four, with the others being Al Ittihad (E11), Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed (E311) and Emirates (E611) roads.

This comes as Suhail bin Mohammed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, addressed the Federal National Council (FNC) on Wednesday. He said the ministry would study the proposal submitted by the FNC to construct the new road to reduce traffic woes — especially during peak times.
Officials will meet local government representatives to assess whether there is a need to construct a new highway or if adding more lanes to existing ones would solve the congestion issue. They will also study if diverting traffic to alternative routes would help ease bottlenecks.

FNC member Dr Adnan Hamad Al Hammadi told the minister that federal roads linking Dubai and the Northern Emirates see severe traffic jams, especially during peak hours. “These roads drain 20 hours per week, 80 hours per month, and 1,000 hours annually from employees’ time,” he said, urging the minister to find comprehensive solutions.

For employees who live in the Northern Emirates and work in Dubai, this is resulting in delayed arrival to offices and amounts to increased stress and anxiety, he said.

“This affects their commitment and productivity at work. This problem has existed for years without any significant improvement. What measures has the ministry taken to solve the problem of traffic congestion on the federal roads?” the member asked.

The FNC member said that although the ministry has developed many roads, nothing major has been done on federal ones. “The primary highways — Al Ittihad, Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed and Emirates roads — currently have fewer than 20 lanes, with about 10 for entry into Dubai. These roads accommodate over 850,000 vehicles commuting between Dubai and the Northern Emirates.”

In response to the questions, Al Mazrouei said the ministry is working with local municipalities to enhance the highways. The minister added that the UAE will also implement “new procedures” to ease traffic between Dubai and the Northern Emirates. Solutions include an integrated centre to monitor traffic flow and AI to assess reasons for congestion. Al Mazrouei said these will be rolled out in the second half 2024.

Source : The National News

Transport authorities have unveiled plans to build a two-lane bridge serving 6,000 vehicles per hour to connect Sheikh Zayed Road with Dubai Harbour.

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority will construct the 1,500 metre transport link, which aims to slash average travel times to the waterfront district from 12 minutes to three minutes, as part of a partnership with harbour owners, Shamal Holding.

Dubai Harbour is home to two cruise terminals spanning 120,000 square metres, a vast marina, residential developments and an array of leisure facilities.

The sprawling harbour – located between Palm Jumeirah and Bluewaters – became the new home for the Dubai International Boat Show in 2022.

The key project is being carried out in line with the directives of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, to boost the emirate’s road infrastructure to meet the demands of a growing population.

Dubai’s population crossed 3.5 million in April 2022, amid a post-pandemic rise in migration.

It currently stands at more than 3.66 million, according to a live population clock available on the government’s Dubai Statistics Centre website.

Mattar Al Tayer, director general of the RTA, said the addition of a direct entry and exit to Dubai Harbour will help ease traffic flow.

The RTA did not reveal when work will begin on the scheme or when it is likely to be completed.

Cutting congestion

The bridge will extend from the fifth intersection on Sheikh Zayed Road, near the American University in Dubai, to Dubai Harbour Street.

It passes by the intersection of Al Naseem Street with Al Falak Street and crosses over the intersection of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street up to Dubai Harbour.

“The project also includes surface improvements at four intersections along the bridge: the fifth intersection on Sheikh Zayed Road, the intersection of Al Falak Street with Al Naseem Street, the intersection of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street with Al Naseem Street, and Dubai Harbour Street,” Mr Al Tayer said.

“When completed, the project will improve the flow of traffic and reduce the travel time from 12 minutes to 3 minutes.”

Abdulla Binhabtoor, chief portfolio management officer at Shamal Holding, said, the plan will be a major boost to Dubai Harbour residents and visitors.

“Upon its completion, the bridge will provide free traffic flow to and from Dubai Harbour, which occupies an exceptional location on the scenic seafront of the emirate of Dubai,” he said.

“This project is part of our commitment to building extraordinary residential and tourist communities, in line with the urban and architectural development plans of Dubai.”

Renting a home in Dubai can feel overwhelming—especially with all the rules, new technology, and evolving laws. But understanding your rights and obligations is crucial, whether you’re a tenant searching for a new apartment or a landlord managing property. This guide breaks down Dubai’s rental laws for 2026 in clear, practical terms, so you can feel confident and protected as you navigate the city’s dynamic real estate market.

A Smarter Way to Regulate Rent

Dubai has always led the way when it comes to property innovation. In 2026, the introduction of the AI-powered Smart Rental Index marks a game-changer. Unlike the old annual RERA calculator, this new system uses artificial intelligence to evaluate properties using over 60 criteria—think building quality, location, amenities, and more. Each property now receives a transparent 1–5 star rating, and rental valuations update in real time, not just once a year. This means more fairness, fewer disputes, and a system that works for both tenants and landlords.

EJARI Registration: The First Step in Any Rental Relationship

If there’s one rule you can’t skip, it’s EJARI registration—which literally means “my rent” in Arabic. This mandatory process officially records every rental contract in Dubai. The good news? Digitalization has made things much faster and easier. Using the Dubai REST app, you can now register your tenancy and get your EJARI certificate almost instantly.

What’s required? You’ll need your signed contract, Emirates IDs and passports, the property’s title deed, the DEWA number, and proof of your security deposit. While the law puts the onus on landlords, tenants often handle registration themselves. It costs about AED 175 online, or a bit more if you do it in person.

For companies, a few extra documents are required, but for most individuals, the process is straightforward. And thanks to the Smart Rental Index, your contract now reflects what’s really happening in the market.

Rent Increases: How Much Is Too Much?

Worried about sudden rent hikes? Dubai’s laws are clear and protective. Based on Decree No. 43 of 2013 and the new Smart Rental Index, any rent increase depends on how your current rent compares to the market average.

• If your rent is within 10% of the average, no increase is allowed.
• If it’s 11–20% below, the most it can go up is 5%.
• For rents 21–30% below market, 10% is the max.
• 31–40% below? 15%.
• More than 40% below? 20%.

But there are rules: Landlords must give you at least 90 days’ written notice before any increase at contract renewal—never in the middle of a lease. Plus, upgrades to the building (like better maintenance or new amenities) can allow for higher rates, giving everyone an incentive to keep properties in great shape.

Landlord and Tenant: Rights and Responsibilities

A good rental relationship is built on trust and clear rules. Here’s what each side should expect:

Landlords have the right to:

• Receive rent on time
• Raise rent, but only within legal boundaries
• Access their property for inspections (with notice)
• Collect a reasonable security deposit (up to 5% for unfurnished, 10% for furnished)

But they also must:

• Deliver the home in good, safe condition
• Handle major maintenance and repairs
• Respect your privacy
• Follow all safety laws

Tenants have the right to:

• Peaceful enjoyment of their home
• Renew their contract unless there are legal reasons not to
• Challenge unfair rent increases or eviction attempts
• Receive proper notice for any changes

Tenants are expected to:

• Pay rent on time
• Take care of the property
• Get written permission for modifications or subletting
• Comply with building regulations

Maintenance is split sensibly: landlords handle the big stuff, while tenants take care of everyday fixes.

Recent Legal Developments: Eviction Notice Enforcement and Bad Faith Protection

Protection Against Bad Faith Evictions

Dubai’s rental laws include strong safeguards to prevent landlords from abusing eviction rules—especially when they claim to need the property for their own use or for sale. Under Article 26 of the amended tenancy law, if a landlord evicts a tenant on the grounds of personal use (for themselves or a first-degree relative), they are legally barred from renting the property to anyone else for at least two years for residential properties (and three years for commercial). If a landlord breaks this rule and re-rents the property within the restricted period, the previous tenant can file a complaint with the Rental Dispute Settlement Centre (RDC) and claim fair compensation for the wrongful eviction. This system is designed to stop landlords from using personal use claims just to sidestep rent controls or replace tenants with higher-paying ones.

Evolution of Eviction Notice Validity Upon Property Transfer

Another big change came in 2024 regarding eviction notices when a property is sold. In the past, if a landlord sold a property after serving an eviction notice, the notice often became void, and the new owner would have to start the process over—meaning tenants sometimes got extra time by default. However, since 2024, the law states that a valid 12-month eviction notice remains enforceable even after the property is sold. The new owner inherits both the property and the eviction timeline, so tenants must vacate according to the original schedule. This creates more certainty for buyers and sellers, while still maintaining clear notice periods for tenants.

Eviction: When Can It Happen?

Dubai law strongly protects tenants from unfair eviction. During your contract, eviction is only allowed for serious breaches: not paying rent after 30 days’ notice, illegal activity, unauthorized subletting, or major property damage. In each case, you have a chance to fix the issue before any action is taken.

When your lease is ending, landlords can only evict you for four reasons:

1. They or a close family member want to live there
2. Major renovation (and you can’t stay during the work)
3. Demolition for rebuilding
4. The property is being sold

All of these require 12 months’ official notice—and if the landlord claims personal use but re-rents the unit within two years, tenants may claim compensation.

Eviction must always go through the Rental Dispute Settlement Centre. Landlords cannot change locks, disconnect power, or harass tenants into leaving. The law protects your right to due process.

Solving Problems: Where to Turn

Disagreements happen, but Dubai has a dedicated Rental Dispute Settlement Centre (RDC) to handle them efficiently. The RDC process starts with optional mediation and, if needed, moves to formal hearings. Fees are based on the rent amount (3.5% with a cap), and most cases are resolved within a few weeks.

With digital tools like the Smart Judge AI and online filing, the process is faster than ever. From rent payment problems to deposit disputes, tenants and landlords both have clear channels for fair resolution.

Security Deposits: Getting Yours Back

Security deposits offer peace of mind—but can also be a source of tension. In Dubai, deposits are usually 5–10% of annual rent, and landlords must provide a receipt. Deductions are allowed only for genuine property damage, not normal wear and tear.

When your lease ends, insist on a joint inspection and documented handover. If the landlord withholds your deposit unfairly, you can take the issue to the RDC. The system aims for fairness on both sides.

Subletting and Shared Living

Thinking of sharing your apartment? Be careful—subletting without the landlord’s written consent is strictly illegal, and can result in eviction and hefty fines (from AED 5,000 to AED 50,000). If subletting is allowed, all the usual rules—including EJARI registration—still apply.

Dubai also enforces strict occupancy rules, especially for bachelor and shared accommodations. Overcrowding can mean fines and even more severe penalties. These measures are designed to keep living standards high and ensure everyone’s safety.

The Future: Technology and Trust

Dubai’s new Smart Rental Index shows how technology can make the market better for everyone. Instant, building-specific valuations mean less room for confusion and more opportunity for fairness. According to DXB Interact, 368,000 rental contracts were registered for freehold properties in 2024—an 8% increase from the previous year—indicating strong growth in Dubai’s rental market.

But behind all the tech, the core goal remains the same: fairness, transparency, and protection for both tenants and landlords. Whether you’re renting your first apartment or managing several properties, Dubai’s evolving system is designed to help you find stability and peace of mind.

What You Need to Know

On June 1, 2025, the UAE Ministry of Finance implemented a significant update to its corporate tax regime, broadening the scope to include more self-employed individuals and sole proprietorships under the 9% corporate tax framework. This follows the Federal Decree-Law No. 47 of 2022 and reflects the country’s ongoing efforts to align with global tax standards while diversifying non-oil revenues.

The update confirms that natural persons conducting business activities in the UAE—such as freelancers, consultants, and sole traders—must register for corporate tax if their annual turnover exceeds AED 1 million. This represents a strategic shift in the UAE’s fiscal policy, potentially impacting thousands of small businesses and professionals operating in free zones and mainland jurisdictions alike.

Who Is Affected

Freelancers and Sole Proprietors: Any UAE resident earning over AED 1 million annually through commercial, industrial, or professional activities—whether registered as an establishment or not—must now comply with the 9% corporate tax rules.

Property Owners: Individuals earning rental income in their personal capacity are exempt if the income is not derived from a licensed business activity.

Investors: Income from dividends, capital gains, or share trading carried out in a personal capacity remains outside the scope of corporate tax.

Non-Residents: Only taxed if they have a permanent establishment or source of income in the UAE meeting the AED 1 million threshold.

Implications for Small Business and Freelance Economy

This expansion is poised to have far-reaching effects, particularly in the UAE’s booming freelance and gig economy. While many large corporations were already subject to corporate tax since its rollout in June 2023, freelancers in sectors like marketing, IT, education, and creative industries will now need to:

Register with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) if their revenues exceed the threshold

File annual corporate tax returns

Maintain audited financial records, even as individuals

For many, this marks the first time they are subject to corporate-level financial compliance in the UAE.

Why It Matters for the UAE Economy

The move is part of the UAE’s broader economic transformation. With the introduction of corporate tax, the government aims to reduce its reliance on oil revenues while maintaining its global competitiveness. The tax remains low by international standards, and its introduction is seen as a step toward greater fiscal sustainability, improved transparency, and compliance with OECD global minimum tax principles.

It also signals the maturing of the UAE’s regulatory landscape, where even solo entrepreneurs and remote workers are expected to participate in the formal economy.

Key Takeaways for Investors and Professionals

The AED 1 million turnover threshold offers a cushion for micro-businesses and early-stage freelancers.

Strategic tax planning, professional bookkeeping, and potentially restructuring under free zone entities may help optimize tax exposure.

The FTA has emphasized that natural persons who fall below the threshold are not required to register or pay corporate tax—but it is the taxpayer’s responsibility to assess and ensure compliance.

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Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is spearheading a transformative infrastructure agenda in 2025, marked by extensive road expansions, advanced public transport networks, and innovative mobility solutions. These projects are instrumental in supporting the emirate’s population growth, urban expansion, and economic diversification strategies. With a focus on long-term sustainability and operational efficiency, the RTA’s initiatives are expected to reshape mobility across residential, commercial, and industrial zones.

The infrastructure expansion aligns with the Dubai Urban Master Plan 2040 and the RTA’s Strategic Plan 2023–2030. The plan targets several key objectives: alleviating traffic congestion, improving intermodal connectivity, supporting smart mobility adoption, and enhancing the overall commuter experience. The ongoing portfolio of projects also aims to bridge connectivity gaps across newly developing areas, providing a foundation for real estate and economic activity in outer zones such as Dubai South, Nad Al Sheba, and Dubai Islands.

Major Infrastructure and Mobility Projects Under Execution

1. Dubai Metro Blue Line

A 30 km fully integrated metro line that includes 14 new stations (nine underground, five elevated), connecting key population centers in Al Warqa, International City, Silicon Oasis, Ras Al Khor, and Dubai Creek Harbour. Designed to support up to 320,000 daily passengers, the line is expected to relieve congestion on the Red and Green lines and accommodate rapid residential expansion in East Dubai. The line’s tunneling and civil works are contracted to a consortium led by Turkey’s MAPA and China’s CRRC, with phased completion forecasted for 2029.

2. Al Shindagha Corridor Improvement

This multi-phase corridor development spans 13 km between Deira and Bur Dubai, targeting 15 intersections and several heritage-sensitive districts. Infrastructure upgrades include the construction of bridges, pedestrian pathways, and underpasses to reduce travel time from 104 to 16 minutes. It supports over one million residents and enhances access to redevelopment areas such as Deira Waterfront and Dubai Islands. The corridor is crucial to integrating old Dubai with emerging zones through modern, high-capacity transport infrastructure.

3. Hessa Street Upgrade

An extensive overhaul of a vital east-west artery, the project entails 9 km of bridges and 13.5 km of parallel roads with dedicated cycling and e-scooter tracks. The goal is to double hourly road capacity from 4,000 to 8,000 vehicles and reduce travel time by over 75%. The project also promotes micro-mobility through shaded paths and connectivity to metro and bus stations. Key intersections at Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Khail Road, and First Al Khail Street are being redesigned for smoother transit.

4. Umm Suqeim Street Development

Targeting a 4.6 km stretch from Al Khail Road to Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, this project will expand traffic capacity through additional lanes and interchange redesigns. Already 70% complete, it is expected to significantly reduce bottlenecks for east-west commuters and improve access to areas such as Al Barsha, Motor City, and Arabian Ranches.

5. Trade Centre Roundabout Redesign

One of the city’s busiest interchanges is undergoing reengineering, with flyovers and optimized signal systems to address high-volume flow near the World Trade Centre and DIFC. Although at an early stage (1% completion), the project is a priority given its strategic location and proximity to major hotels, offices, and exhibition venues.

6. Bridges to Dubai Islands

A new series of bridge connections between Bur Dubai and Dubai Islands is in progress to support future waterfront residential and commercial developments. The project includes multi-lane bridges designed to handle high volumes of vehicular traffic and dedicated pedestrian/cycling access, ensuring Dubai Islands are seamlessly integrated into the city’s urban core.

7. Al Fay Street Expansion

Involves 13.5 km of bridges and 12.9 km of service roads to elevate Al Fay Street’s hourly capacity to 64,400 vehicles. The project will service dense residential zones, office parks, and Dubai Silicon Oasis, and is expected to benefit over 600,000 people once complete.

8. Internal Roads in Al Awir 1

Comprising 16.5 km of new internal roads with improved turning radii, surface drainage, and signage, this project will improve access for local communities. The road network will connect to Emirates Road, with a lane addition to handle higher inflows. The result will be a 100% increase in the area’s traffic handling capacity.

9. 700-Metre Bridge to Nad Al Sheba

A bridge linking Dubai–Al Ain Road directly with Nad Al Sheba to ease internal traffic pressure and enable smoother entry to residential clusters. Construction is scheduled for Q4 2025, with delivery by Q4 2026.

10. Al Warqa Access Enhancements

New entry and exit ramps to Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road are under development to accommodate up to 5,000 vehicles per hour. The project includes new roundabouts and smart signaling systems, aimed at reducing travel times by 80%.

11. Oud Metha & Al Asayel Improvements

Ongoing work (7% completed) involves realignment of lanes, upgraded signalization, and capacity enhancements at critical junctions serving schools, hospitals, and business districts in Oud Metha and Al Jaddaf.

12. Dubai Harbour Entry Points

New ingress and egress roads to support cruise passenger and visitor traffic at Dubai Harbour. The project is part of a larger maritime-mobility integration program, with seamless links to Bluewaters Island and JBR.

13. Mall of the Emirates Access Roads

27% of this project is complete, involving widening of access roads and enhanced signal coordination to streamline vehicular entry to the mall, particularly during weekends and events.

14. Al Qudra Street Upgrade

This key route serving Dubai’s western growth corridor (including Damac Hills and Tilal Al Ghaf) is being widened, with new roundabouts and bike paths added to support multimodal transport.

15. Five-Year Internal Roads Strategy (2025–2029)

Targets secondary roads in underserved or developing zones, providing long-term structural upgrades and increased accessibility. The plan includes works in Hatta, Al Khawaneej, Al Barsha South, and Muhaisnah.

16. 2024–2027 Integrated Development Package

A set of 22 projects across the emirate involving highways, district-level upgrades, signal modernization, and public realm enhancements. 20% progress has been recorded.

17. Aerial Taxi Infrastructure (by 2026)

Dubai aims to be among the first cities globally to operate VTOL aircraft for urban air mobility. The RTA is currently building dedicated vertiports and integrating air traffic systems to enable commercial launch by 2026.

18. Multi-Use Mobility Track Along Hessa Street

Spanning 13.5 km with two architecturally distinct bridges, the track will offer protected paths for bikes, scooters, and pedestrians, contributing to Dubai’s non-motorized mobility agenda.

19. 762 Public Bus Shelters

Being installed in phases across high-traffic neighborhoods. Shelters are solar-powered, climate-controlled, and offer real-time bus tracking.

20. Access Projects in Four Additional Communities

New ramps, signal junctions, and roundabouts are being implemented in communities such as Al Khawaneej 2, Nad Al Sheba 2, and Al Barsha 2 to improve urban permeability and reduce bottlenecks.

Urban Development and Market Impact The widespread nature of these projects ensures that both core and peripheral areas receive investment, enabling more equitable urban growth. As these transport links come online, they are expected to unlock new corridors of real estate investment and stimulate demand for residential and commercial property near high-capacity roads and metro stations. Developers and investors should monitor delivery timelines and zoning changes in these infrastructure-adjacent zones.