Dubai: Dubai’s cycling tracks will see an extension of 57 kilometres spread across Al Warqaa, Mushrif, Mirdif, Mizhar and Al Khawaneej, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) announced on Saturday.
To be ready by the end of next year, the new project, which will also have running tracks, is being undertaken at a cost of Dh79 million.
The announcement comes following the opening of a 23km track connecting Seih Assalam with Nad Al Sheba.
“The construction of the dedicated cycling and running tracks projects in the Emirate of Dubai is a manifestation of the directives of His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President, Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. This project aims to provide suitable options for residents to practice sport and cycling. It also ensures that the infrastructure of residential districts is conducive to the practicing of sport,” said Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of RTA.
The project is part of a master plan developed by RTA for providing dedicated cycling and running tracks covering the entire emirate. With the addition of these tracks, Dubai will have around 250km of cycling tracks around various corners of the city.
The project has been divided into two parts, the first covers the construction of a cycling and running route extending 32km at Mushrif, Mirdif, Mizhar and Al Khawaneej along with three bridges for the combined use of cyclists and pedestrians at Al Khawaneej at a cost of Dh52 million.
The second part covers the construction of cycling and running tracks spanning 25km at Al Warqaa along with a bridge for the combined use of cyclists and pedestrians at Tripoli Road at a cost of Dh27 million.
“These districts were selected on the basis of several perimeters highlighted by population density, attractiveness to cyclists, surrounding areas, suitability of locations and existing obstacles, traffic safety, and appeal to pedestrians. Moreover, lanes have been designed in such a way that provides safety and security of cyclists,” said Al Tayer.
The Dubai Cycling Track that was recently opened offers another interesting avenue between Seih Assalam and Nad Al Sheba stretching for 23km. The track connects with the existing cycling lane of Seih Assalam at Al Qudra Road and extends further in the direction of the Emirates Road, Latifa Bint Hamdan Road, Shaikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, Al Barari and up to Nad Al Sheba.
The 115km long cycling tracks at Seih Assalam includes several public utilities, outlets for renting bikes and accessories, a fully equipped medical clinic, and 10 rest points all along the biking lane fitted with seats and bike racks.
