RTA to bring you happier, smarter Dubai

Dubai - The RTA is working with Careem on the region's first bicycle-pool project.

A slew of happiness projects - from a Sky Garden to a new beachfront area and green bicycle lanes - were approved on Tuesday by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
Designed for residents' happiness and as part of Dubai's smart transformation, the new package of future projects will be developed by the emirate's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).
During a visit to the RTA, Sheikh Mohammed gave his nod to the projects as he reviewed the details of each of them with Mattar Al Tayer, director-general and chairman of the board of executive directors of the RTA.
The Sky Garden, for one, is set to become a new iconic destination: It's a footbridge that will link several landmarks along the shores of Dubai Creek. At a height of 60m, the 380m bridge will come alive with shrubs and greenery, making it a perfect spot to take a stroll as one enjoys the views of the emirate's heritage district.
At least two promenades will also be built. One of them will be situated in the heart of the city's hustle and bustle, while the other will be by the beach.
The first one, the Sheikh Zayed Road Promenade, will be turning the viaduct between the Dubai World Trade Centre and Financial Centre Metro Stations into a 2.5km green, modern space for cyclists, as well as visitors who may want to take a walk.
The Sunset Promenade, on the other hand, is a new 80,000sqm family-friendly beachfront area connected to Jumeirah Beach Walk.
Besides the new mega projects in the pipeline, the RTA is working with Careem on the region's first bicycle-pool project, where about 3,500 bicycles will be operated at 350 stations in Dubai. 
Sheikh Mohammed also reviewed a host of the RTA's transport innovations, such as the Skypods, a suspended transit system that links areas like Dubai Financial Centre and the Downtown to  Business Bay; and smart, artificial intelligence-powered traffic systems.
In addition, he endorsed road and public transport projects as well as a five-year plan (2019-2023) for constructing internal roads in residential districts.
Sheikh Mohammed also looked into the progress of other ongoing projects, such as the constructions on Tripoli Street, Khawaneej, Mushrif Park and Dubai-Al Ain Road, as well as roads leading to International City.
1-Sunset Promenade
>A new beachfront area spanning 80,000 square metres
>Connected to Jumeirah Beach Walk
>Focused on promoting family entertainment
What to do here: Take the family out for new beach activities - a perfect weekend must-do
2-SkyGarden
>A footbridge that will link several landmarks along the shores of Dubai Creek
>To measure 380m in length, 60m in height, spanning an area of 3,422sqm
>Set to become an iconic, tourist destination
What to do here: Take a stroll as you enjoy the bridge's greenery along with the views of the emirate's heritage district
3-Skypods
>A suspended transit system that links spots such as Dubai Financial Centre and Downtown Dubai to Business Bay
>Passes through Happiness Street and runs up to City Walk, through tracks extending 15km in length
>Has 21 stations and a capacity to transit 8,400 riders per hour per direction
What to do here: Enjoy the view of the city - and that vibe of living in the 'future' - as you go from Point A to Point B
4-Deira Plaza
>Shaded urban parks that span 35,000sqm
>Features spaces for events, hiking, recreation and a multi-storey parking
What to do here: Hang out with family and friends, try new activities or attend events
5-Smart traffic systems
>An integrated infrastructure of smart, AI-powered systems that can provide real-time traffic information via variable messaging sign (VMS) and smart apps
What to look forward to: Better traffic flow, less congestions, faster response to road accidents