Expo City Dubai will not be entirely vehicle-free as originally planned. The updated master plan acknowledges the need for private, delivery, and emergency vehicles to access specific areas of the site, according to a senior official.
Ahmed Al Khatib, Chief Development Officer of Expo City Dubai, explained that while vehicles will be allowed in limited areas, the city will focus on making it easy and inviting for people to move around without cars. “The new plan prioritizes pedestrians, encourages public transport and eco-friendly mobility options, and provides ample parking spaces around the edges of the site,” he said.
To ensure safety, traffic-calming features like narrower roads and speed bumps will be implemented in areas where vehicles are allowed. These measures aim to reduce speeding and make the roads safer.
Pedestrian-Friendly Zones
The core areas of Expo City will remain pedestrian-focused. Al Khatib highlighted that walking will be a priority over vehicle use, with most vehicle activity kept to a minimum.
The city will have shaded sidewalks on main roads, dedicated walking paths, and traditional alleys called sikkas. In fact, 70% of walkways will be shaded to enhance comfort.
A special “Green Loop” will connect the city’s natural spaces and urban areas, creating a seamless walking path for residents and visitors.
The New Master Plan
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE, approved the updated plan for Expo City in October. Covering 3.5 square kilometers, the city will eventually house over 35,000 residents and 40,000 professionals.
According to the plan, more than 80% of the infrastructure built for Expo 2020 will remain, including key landmarks like Terra, Alif, the Connect Conference Centre, Al Wasl Plaza, and the Surreal water feature. Other buildings, such as the UAE Pavilion and serviced apartments, will continue to serve new purposes.
The development will be rolled out in phases to match market demands. Current projects include Expo Valley, Mangrove Residences, and Sky Residences, with the first units expected to be ready by early 2026.
Business and Investment Opportunities
Expo City has already attracted global companies like DP World, Emirates Group, Siemens Energy, and Terminus. More businesses are expected to join soon. Office spaces are available for lease, and plots are open for investors and developers. The launch of the Expo Business District will create additional opportunities for entrepreneurs and companies.
The first residents will start moving into the city in 2026. Expo Valley will feature 484 villas and townhouses surrounded by a nature sanctuary, while Mangrove Residences will include three residential towers with one- to three-bedroom apartments, lofts, and townhouses offering stunning views of Al Wasl Plaza.
District Highlights
Expo City will have several unique districts:
- Expo Hills: A low-density residential community.
- Expo Fields: A space for healthy living with schools, sports fields, and performance areas.
- Expo Business District: A business-focused area with a campus-like environment.
- Downtown: Featuring iconic landmarks like the Al Wasl dome and the new floating Terra Gardens.
- Forest District: Offering social, educational, and recreational spaces in a natural setting.
