Dubai in 16 Years

All About Dubai Urban Master Plan 2040

In March 2021, the Government of Dubai approved a sustainable development plan for the emirate.

The goal is to position Dubai as "the best city for living in the world".

The development and investment are centred in 5 main urban centres:

• Deira & Bur Dubai
• Downtown & Business Bay
• Dubai Marina & JBR
• Expo City Dubai
• Dubai Silicon Oasis

7 Key Outcomes

1️. Population

Goal: it is set to rise up to 5.8 million people.

In 2023, the population grew by 100,000+ people. In September 2024 it was 3.78 million.

2️. Tourism

Goal: the space for hospitality and tourism activities is set to rise by 134%.

In 2024, +31 new hotels are planned. 12 of them opened in H1: One&Only One Za'abeel and The Lana, Dorchester Collection, etc.

3️. Social Development

Goal: the space for health and education facilities should increase by 25%.

In 2024, Dubai National University was established and 2 international schools opened. In 2024–2025, 39 schools and centres are set to open.

4️. Beaches

Goal: the length of public beaches will be expanded by 400%.

In 2023, Palm Jebel Ali project development started. It will add 91km of beachfront to the Dubai coastline. The World Islands project will add 232km.

5️. Legislation

Goal: development of an integrated and effective planning system.

In 2023, the Urban Planning Law was created. It prohibits carrying out any development works without obtaining permits.

6️. Green Emirate

Goal: doubling the size of the green spaces. 60% of Dubai's territory is set to consist of reserves and natural areas.

In 2024, Dubai Green Spine, a green highway with trams and 1 million+ trees, was announced. Presented Dubai Mangroves, the mangrove regeneration project, which will cover 72km of the coastline.

7️. Transport

Goal: the city with all the necessary facilities accessible within 20 mins on foot or by bicycle.

In 2023, the Dubai Metro Blue Line and The Loop, 93km climate-controlled highway for walking & cycling, were approved.