How Dubai’s Green and Blue Spaces Roadmap 2030 will transform city living
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum sets global benchmarks for sustainable urban development
DUBAI – His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, reviewed the Blue and Green Spaces Roadmap 2030, launched by Dubai Municipality during the World Governments Summit (WGS 2026).
Accompanied by senior officials including Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum examined a roadmap designed to integrate nature into Dubai’s urban fabric and enhance residents’ quality of life.
Valued at over Dh4 billion, this strategic plan aims to make Dubai a leading global city where nature and infrastructure co-exist harmoniously.
Integration of nature
The Roadmap embeds sustainability at the heart of Dubai’s urban planning, integrating parks, beaches, waterfronts, afforestation, agriculture, biodiversity conservation, and advanced recycling systems. This approach strengthens the city’s resilience and adaptability while improving public health and wellbeing.
Dubai Municipality’s vision focuses on developing human-centric infrastructure corridors that support families, communities, and active lifestyles, making green and blue spaces essential components of daily life.
Expanding parks and recreation
By 2030, residents will see nature become a key part of everyday urban life. The plan includes planting 1.5 million trees, completing over 45 landscaping projects, and adding 120 new parks spanning nearly 3 million square metres.
More than 200 sports and recreation areas will be seamlessly integrated into green networks, providing spaces for outdoor exercise, social interaction, and community engagement. These projects align with the Public Parks and Greenery Strategy and Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, ensuring sustainability is built into the city’s long-term growth.
Enhancing beaches and waterfronts
Dubai’s coastline is set for a major transformation. The Roadmap plans a 400% increase in beach facilities and services, a 150% growth in public beach space, and a 285% extension of beachfront walking, jogging, and cycling tracks. Over 15 major development projects will revitalise waterfronts, introducing three new beach destinations each year.
Key projects include the transformation of Umm Suqeim Beach into a dynamic public hub with art installations, cafes, and recreational attractions, making Dubai’s beaches active social and ecological assets.
Global standards and innovation
Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita, Director General of Dubai Municipality, highlighted that the Roadmap positions Dubai as a global leader in sustainable urban development. The city is not only implementing advanced blue and green space management locally but also sharing its integrated urban model worldwide. The initiative aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, strengthens climate resilience, and ensures Dubai’s public spaces support active, healthy lifestyles while fostering community interaction.
Human-centric growth
The Blue and Green Spaces Roadmap 2030 embodies a flexible, inclusive, and long-term urban vision. It transforms beaches, parks, and public spaces into integrated infrastructure assets, making Dubai more liveable, attractive, and environmentally responsible.
By 2030, residents and visitors alike will benefit from a city where economic development, environmental stewardship, and community wellbeing advance in harmony, reinforcing Dubai’s ambition to become the best city in the world to live, work, and enjoy.