Dubai revises speed limits for cyclists

Riders on dedicated paths will be restricted to 30kph and must stick to 20kph on routes shared with pedestrians

Paths that are shared by cyclists and pedestrians have been limited to 20kph. Courtesy: Dubai Media Office

Dubai's transport authority has brought in new speed limits for cycle paths.

Cyclists will be limited to 30kph on dedicated lanes and 20kph on those shared with pedestrians.

The decision will affect routes across the city and include 30kph limits on Nad Al Sheba and Meydan cycling tracks, and in paths in Al Qusais, Karama and Mankhool. Most urban paths will be 20kph.

No limits will be imposed on Al Qudra cycling track or the nearby Seih Assalam area.

“RTA is keen to make Dubai one of the best cycle-friendly cities in the world," said Maitha bin Adai, head of traffic and roads at the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).

"This warrants developing and improving the infrastructure of cycling, as well as legislation that encourages people to use cycles as safe means of mobility around the city," she said.

The pandemic has led to a boom in cycling, with more people taking up the hobby and exercising outdoors.

Dubai's government said it plans to increase the distance covered by dedicated cycle routes from 425 kilometres to more than 660km by 2025.

Brig Saif Al Mazroui, head of traffic at Dubai Police, urged all riders to ensure they wear a helmet and reflective vest or jacket, and have a white light at the front of their bike and a red light at the rear.

Dubai's cycling boom - in pictures

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  It is part of an approved Dh400 million strategy to make cycling safer in the emirate. WAM

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  The new track will connect the existing Jumeirah Street cycling track, parallel to the Dubai Water Canal, with the existing cycling track alongside Dubai Internet City. WAM

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  Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed with leaders of various companies on a 20km cycling tour of the Nad Al Sheba Sports Complex. Wam

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  RTA is seeking to further extend the total length of cycling tracks in Dubai to 739km by 2026. WAM

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  The November event was part of a corporate cycling trial for Dubai Fitness Challenge. Wam

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  The Crown Prince of Dubai also spoke about how sports and fitness was important in creating happy societies. Wam

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  Sheikh Hamdan talked to the business chiefs about overcoming current challenges. Wam

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  Sheikh Hamdan announced the construction of a cycling track extending 16km along Jumeirah Beach in Dubai. WAM