An AED18 billion development package has been approved by Dubai’s Executive Council, bringing together a series of projects designed to strengthen the emirate’s transport network, economy, culture, and public services. Announced by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the initiatives include a major new elevated road corridor, cultural and education strategies, investment reforms, and smart planning projects that support Dubai’s long-term vision.
A new elevated road to ease traffic and improve connectivity
Among the biggest announcements is the First Al Khail Street Development Plan, which will introduce a 15-kilometre elevated roadway running parallel to Sheikh Zayed Road. The three-lane carriageway in each direction is expected to reduce travel time on Sheikh Zayed Road by 51 per cent during peak hours while increasing capacity by around 9,000 vehicles per hour.
The corridor will serve around 2.6 million residents and improve access to Al Barsha, Al Quoz, Business Bay, and Meydan. Construction is scheduled to begin in the third quarter of 2027 and finish by the fourth quarter of 2030, with innovative construction methods planned to minimise disruption to traffic.
Wider plans for Dubai’s future
Beyond transport, the package includes several initiatives focused on long-term development. The Dubai Cultural Strategy 2033 aims to support more than 6,000 local creatives, attract international talent, and increase the cultural sector’s contribution to the economy through a range of new programmes.
Other approvals include the Dubai Customs Strategy 2030 to strengthen trade and logistics, the Emirati Talents Strategy in Private Education targeting 3,000 Emiratis in the sector by 2033, and the Dubai Investor Register, which will simplify investment procedures across multiple business zones.
The Executive Council also approved a new visual identity for Dubai’s address system, which will be introduced across 186 areas by 2029, and a real-time population monitoring initiative to support planning for housing, transport, education, and healthcare.
Together, these projects highlight Dubai’s continued investment in infrastructure, innovation, and sustainable growth, while reinforcing its ambition to remain a leading global city for business, culture, and quality of life.
