Imagine Sheikh Zayed Road devoid of cars: one long line of empty asphalt bisecting Dubai, the multi-lane motorway now a trail of serenity where once all was hubbub and worry. Now, imagine this quiet road alive with pedestrians – families with pushchairs, couples on a mid-morning walk, children playing – as the city, as one, leaves its cars at home.
We are a long way away from the pedestrianisation of Dubai. It is one of the world's busiest cities and it has a love affair and symbiotic attachment to the internal combustion engine. But Car Free Day, on February 21, when Dubai's denizens will be encouraged to swap the car for the Metro, bus or bicycle, is an opportunity to glimpse this vision of a greener, healthier emirate and country.
The National promotes its annual #cycletoworkUAE day in January to encourage readers to make a change for the better. February 21 provides another opportunity to try a change in your own daily routine. Leave the car at home: you might find it makes your day cheaper, healthier, more sociable and enjoyable.
