H.H. Sheikh Hamdan reviews progress on '20 minute city' at Al Barsha

His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister, has been briefed on the development of the '20-minute' model city being built in Al Barsha 2.

The Model District Project in Al Barsha 2 is being designed to support the ‘20-minute city’ concept promoting sustainable living with essential services within a 20-minute radius.

In line with the objectives of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, the Model District Project in Al Barsha 2 will integrate pedestrian and cycling networks to connect Al Barsha 2 to Mall of the Emirates, Al Quoz Creative Zone, Hessa Street, Dubai Hills, Al Sufouh and Jumeirah Beach, and expanded green spaces.

Sheikh Hamdan also reviewed a number of road development projects being undertaken by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) for 2025 – 2027. It includes the development of 226 km of roads and 115 bridges, aimed at serving over 8 million residents by 2040.

Among the most prominent initiatives are upgrades to the Umm Suqeim – Al Qudra Corridor, Hessa Street, Latifa bint Hamdan Street (from Al Khail Road to Emirates Road), Al Meydan Street, Al Mustaqbal Street, the Dubai World Trade Centre roundabout, and Al Fay Road — an extension of Al Khail Road from its intersection with Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road through Sheikh Zayed bin Hamdan Al Nahyan Street to Emirates Road.

These upgrades are expected to significantly increase traffic capacity and reduce travel times.

Sheikh Hamdan also reviewed plans for autonomous taxis, with 60 vehicles set to begin road mapping ahead of a planned 2026 launch, as well as the expansion of Dubai’s cycling infrastructure, which currently spans 557 km, with further additions underway. As part of the emirate’s smart mobility strategy, advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, drones, and dynamic tolling systems are already enhancing traffic flow and project oversight.

Model District in Al Barsha 2
The Model District Project in Al Barsha 2, which is designed to enhance liveability, expand green and open spaces, improve pedestrian infrastructure, and promote sustainable mobility.

Cycling tracks
The emirate currently boasts of 557 km of… pic.twitter.com/TqRMrH45gw

— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) May 4, 2025