Dubai developer Nakheel investing Dhs105m on cycling tracks

Dubai property developer Nakheel said it is investing Dhs150m on developing 105 kilometres of bicycle tracks in its communities across Dubai.

All the new routes are linked to the Dubai government’s cycling masterplan, a statement said.

Nakheel will construct the new tracks over the next two years, with phased delivery between now and Q2 2019.

Work is already under way on a 5km track at the Nad Al Sheba community, currently under construction along Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road in Dubai.

Other developments covered by phase one are Jumeirah Islands, Jumeirah Heights and Jumeirah Park [20km track across the three], Jumeirah Village Triangle (13km) and Jumeirah Village Circle (13km), Al Furjan, The Gardens, Discovery Gardens and Garden View Villas (40km across the four areas).

The developer is also building a 10 km ‘super loop’ – for more experienced riders – as part of its cycle route network.

Nakheel said it plans a series of subsequent bike tracks once the first 105km are completed.

Nakheel chairman Ali Rashid Lootah said: “Cycling in Dubai has seen a huge surge in popularity over the last few years, with the government promoting the sport through world class events like the Dubai Tour and by building hundreds of kilometres of bike routes across the city.

“Our new cycle track network will make cycling more accessible. Under our plan, people will be able to bike their way to the shops, school and friends’ houses without getting in the car.

“Our plan will encourage people to take up cycling as a sport and recreational activity, in turn promoting health and fitness among all age groups. It will also offer something for experienced riders, who will benefit from new routes linked to Dubai’s existing bike path network as well as our 10 km super loop.”

Cycling tracks have been springing up across Dubai as the emirate implements its bicycle masterplan, which will provide 850km of bikeways in central business districts and residential neighbourhoods. The entire project is anticipated to be completed by 2020.

Read more: Dubai’s RTA Begins Work On Dhs32m Cycling Track