RTA Completes Major Mobility Upgrade in Al Quoz Creative Zone

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has completed a major package of infrastructure and mobility projects in Al Quoz Creative Zone, marking a significant step in transforming the area into one of the world’s largest integrated creative districts.

The projects, delivered as part of the zone’s comprehensive master plan, aim to improve connectivity, enhance transport integration and support Dubai’s vision of building a people-centric, pedestrian-friendly and sustainable urban environment. Al Quoz Creative Zone is being developed as a global hub for creatives, entrepreneurs and investors in the creative economy, offering an ecosystem that supports every stage of the creative journey — from design and production to exhibition and marketing.

The district is also designed to provide affordable live-work spaces, high-quality public areas, and dedicated venues for cultural and artistic events, reinforcing its position as a year-round destination for cultural, educational and recreational experiences.

New Bridge, Mobility Hubs and 4km of Walking and Cycling Routes

Among the key projects completed by the RTA is a new pedestrian and cycling bridge on Al Manara Street. The bridge has been designed to improve safety and ensure smooth movement for pedestrians and cyclists while blending with the architectural character of the area.

The structure is 45 metres long, 5.5 metres wide and stands 6 metres high. It includes two access ramps, each extending 210 metres, making it fully accessible and easy to use.

In addition, RTA has delivered three mobility hubs and developed a network of pedestrian, cycling and individual mobility routes stretching a total of four kilometres. These routes connect Al Quoz Creative Zone with Onpassive Metro Station and Al Quoz Bus Station, making it easier for visitors, residents and workers to move seamlessly using different modes of transport.

Super Blocks Project to Turn Streets into Cultural Spaces

RTA has also completed preparations for implementing the Super Blocks project in Al Quoz Creative Zone as part of Dubai’s wider plan to expand pedestrian pathways across the emirate.

The initiative introduces flexible urban spaces that can host art events and cultural festivals by temporarily closing selected streets and transforming them into pedestrian-only zones. One of the first major events to benefit from this concept is the Al Quoz Arts Festival, scheduled for 24 and 25 January and organised by Alserkal Avenue in partnership with Dubai Culture.

The Super Blocks project supports the goals of the Year of the Family, Dubai Social Agenda 33 and Dubai Urban Plan 2040 by strengthening social ties, improving quality of life and creating vibrant, people-focused public spaces.

It also advances the 20-Minute City concept, encouraging residents and visitors to rely more on walking, cycling and other environmentally friendly mobility options, while helping to build a greener, healthier and lower-carbon urban environment.

RTA: Building a Fully Integrated Transport System

His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of RTA and Vice Chairman of the Higher Committee of Al Quoz Creative Zone, said the completion of the projects reflects RTA’s commitment to building an integrated transport system that reduces dependence on private cars and improves urban mobility efficiency.

He noted that connecting Al Quoz Creative Zone to metro and bus stations, alongside developing a comprehensive network of pedestrian and cycling routes, is part of RTA’s wider effort to deliver people-focused mobility solutions across Dubai.

Al Tayer added that the new pedestrian and cycling bridge on Al Manara Street enhances safety and traffic flow while reinforcing the priority given to sustainable transport. The mobility hubs and internal pathways, he said, are helping to create a connected and accessible urban environment that encourages walking and social interaction.

Dubai Culture: A Model for the Creative Economy

Her Excellency Hala Badri, Director General of Dubai Culture, said Al Quoz Creative Zone reflects Dubai’s ambition to make culture a key driver of economic growth and to strengthen the emirate’s position as a global hub for creativity and talent.

She explained that the zone provides a complete environment that supports creatives, entrepreneurs and investors, while the completion of transport and soft mobility projects will further increase its attractiveness and accessibility.

Dubai Culture, she added, will continue to activate the area through cultural programmes and initiatives that support innovators and highlight opportunities within the creative industries.

A District Set for Major Growth

According to the master plan, Al Quoz Creative Zone is expected to undergo a dramatic expansion. The number of creatives in the area is projected to grow from 900 to 20,000, while the zone will be able to accommodate 8,000 residents and attract around 33,000 visitors every day.

The plan also includes a tenfold increase in studio and workshop spaces, a threefold expansion of leisure and support facilities, and a 30% rise in leasable areas. Once fully developed, Al Quoz Creative Zone is expected to rank among the largest creative districts in the world in terms of built-up area and number of practitioners.

Affordable Housing and a Distinctive Urban Identity

A new planning code has been introduced to create integrated live-work environments, including 2,900 affordable housing units for creatives. The design places strong emphasis on public spaces that can host exhibitions, performances and cultural activities.

Alleys will be transformed into shaded walkways, while public plazas and shared spaces will be used for social activities and art displays. The area will also feature sculptures, murals and dedicated art routes, while preserving Al Quoz’s industrial character by repurposing existing warehouses for creative use.

With its new transport infrastructure in place, Al Quoz Creative Zone is now positioned to become one of Dubai’s most connected, walkable and culturally vibrant districts — and a major global destination for the creative economy.