Sheikh Mohammed Approves Phase II of Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, Introduces 20-Minute City Policy

Dubai, UAE – His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, has greenlit the second phase of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, a visionary blueprint to transform Dubai into a global leader in sustainable urban living by 2040. The plan emphasizes the innovative 20-minute city policy, enabling residents to access 80% of their daily needs within a 20-minute walk or bike ride.

A Vision for a Sustainable, Pedestrian-Friendly Dubai

Phase II of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan builds on the successes of its initial phase, introducing a range of transformative projects under ten key initiatives. These include:

• Enhancing Urban Centres: Developing five main urban hubs, including three existing centres (Deira, Bur Dubai, and the economic hub of DIFC, Sheikh Zayed Road, Business Bay, and Downtown) and two new centres (Expo 2020 Centre and Dubai Silicon Oasis Centre).
• Dubai Real Estate Strategy: A comprehensive plan to balance supply and demand, promote sustainable urban growth, and boost investor confidence.
• Urban Farming Plan: Establishing infrastructure for high-yield agriculture to ensure food security.
• Preserving Urban Heritage: Enhancing Dubai’s historical sites and landmarks to promote tourism and cultural identity.
• 20-Minute City Policy: Creating integrated service centres and increasing population density around mass transit stations to ensure residents can access essential services within 20 minutes by foot or bicycle.
• Pedestrian Network Master Plan: Developing connected pathways and utilizing urban spaces like alleyways and squares to enhance well-being and reduce carbon footprints.

Key Achievements and Ongoing Progress

During the announcement, Sheikh Mohammed reviewed the progress of 17 projects from the first phase of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan. Notable achievements include:

• National Housing Policy: A historic AED65 billion budget to double housing beneficiaries and land allocations for Emirati citizens, reaching 1.7 million square feet.
• Hatta Development Master Plan: Promoting local tourism, heritage preservation, and investment opportunities in Hatta.
• Urban Planning Law: Drafting legislation and an integrated planning database to support sustainable development.
• Dubai Countryside and Rural Areas Development Plan: Enhancing rural areas to provide unique tourism experiences while preserving their natural character.

The Supreme Committee of Urban Planning, chaired by Mattar Al Tayer, Commissioner General for Infrastructure, Urban Planning, and Well-Being, aims to complete five additional projects by the end of 2025, including expanding public beaches and drafting the Dubai Wellbeing Strategy. Further initiatives planned for 2026 include integrating land use and transport policies, expanding public parks, and developing a sustainable mobility plan.

A City Designed for Living

Launched in March 2021, the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan aims to position Dubai as the world’s best city for living. The plan modernizes urban infrastructure, focusing on equitable access to services and opportunities across five urban centres. The two new centres—Expo 2020 Centre and Dubai Silicon Oasis Centre—will drive economic growth, innovation, and affordable housing.

The 20-minute city policy is a cornerstone of this vision, prioritizing soft mobility and connected pathways to reduce travel times and enhance residents’ quality of life. By fostering green corridors, sustainable urban spaces, and high-density service hubs, Dubai is set to become a model for eco-conscious urban development.