Price TrendsJuly 13, 20183 min read

Dubai's Infrastructure Projects: A 2018 Update

Roads, bridges, metro work and new public spaces are progressing across the city. Which projects are closest to completion and what they change.

James Richardson

Chief Investment Strategist

Former Goldman Sachs MD with 25 years in global real estate. James has advised sovereign wealth funds and ultra-high-net-worth families on $50B+ in transactions across MENA, Europe, and Asia.

Dubai's infrastructure programme continues at pace ahead of Expo 2020. New roads, interchanges and bridges are opening, the metro extension is under construction and public spaces such as parks and beaches are being upgraded. Together, they are changing how people move around the city and where they choose to live.

Key projects

Route 2020: metro extension towards the Expo site.
Road improvements: new interchanges on major highways.
Creek crossings: easing traffic between Deira and Bur Dubai.
Public spaces: beaches, parks and cycling tracks.

How infrastructure affects property

Improved access shortens commutes and makes areas more attractive. Communities that were once considered distant are becoming more connected.

Areas benefiting

The south of the city, communities along Al Khail Road and Emirates Road, and areas near new metro stations are among those gaining from improved infrastructure.

Timing

Infrastructure benefits are often realised after completion. Investors should consider when projects will open.

Considerations

Construction can temporarily disrupt access. Buyers should look at the long-term benefits.

Cycling and walking infrastructure

Alongside roads and transit, Dubai is investing in cycling tracks, walking paths and shaded public spaces. Dedicated cycle routes now run through areas such as Al Qudra, Meydan, Jumeirah and Dubai Marina, and new communities increasingly include walking and cycling networks. For residents, these facilities support healthier lifestyles and offer alternatives to driving for short trips. For property, communities with good walking and cycling infrastructure tend to feel more pleasant and attract families and active residents. As the city's climate limits outdoor activity in summer, shaded routes and indoor alternatives matter too. These smaller investments can have a meaningful effect on how liveable a neighbourhood feels.