Developer SpotlightAugust 15, 20143 min read

New Roads, Tram and Bridges Reshape Dubai

A wave of infrastructure projects is changing how people move around the city. Which projects matter most and how they affect property values.

Victoria Sterling

Head of Private Clients

Specializing in family office advisory and multi-generational wealth transfer. Victoria manages relationships with 50+ UHNW families across 15 countries.

Dubai continues to invest heavily in infrastructure. The Dubai Tram is due to open in the Marina area later this year, new interchanges and bridges are easing congestion, and work is under way on roads serving new communities. With Expo 2020 ahead, more projects are planned.

Key projects

Dubai Tram: serving Dubai Marina, JBR and Al Sufouh.
Roads and interchanges: improving access across the city.
Bridges: new crossings easing traffic around the Creek.
Community access: roads linking new developments to main highways.

How infrastructure affects value

Better access reduces commuting times and makes areas more attractive to residents and tenants. Properties near new transport links often see increased demand.

Areas to watch

The Marina and JBR will benefit from the tram's connection to the metro. New communities along major roads, such as those near Al Khail Road and Emirates Road, are becoming more accessible.

Short-term disruption

Construction can cause temporary inconvenience. Buyers should consider the long-term benefits rather than short-term disruption.

Long-term planning

Following the government's plans for infrastructure helps investors identify areas that will improve over time.

How the tram changes the Marina

The Dubai Tram will connect Dubai Marina, JBR and Al Sufouh with metro stations and the Palm Monorail, creating a continuous public transport link along the coast. For residents of the Marina and JBR, this could make it easier to commute without a car and to reach the beach and promenade from different parts of the district. Buildings close to tram stops may become more attractive to tenants who rely on public transport. The construction phase has caused disruption, so the benefits will become clearer after opening. Investors should consider walking distances to stops and the likely effect on traffic patterns when assessing properties in these areas.