Dubai laid the groundwork on Saturday for city’s expansion for the next 20 years, with its population expected to rise to 5.8 million by 2040 from just 3.3 million in 2020.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Dubai, has unveiled the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan. This plan will focus on using spaces within city limits and developing existing urban areas.  The land area used for hotels and tourism activities will grow by 134 percent, while industrial land will grow by 168 square kilometers.

The master plan will increase the land area allocated to education and health facilities by 25 percent. Public beaches will increase by 400 % by 2040.

Dubai aims to become a global destination providing diverse lifestyle and investment opportunities for in next 20 years.

Sheikh Mohammed adds that this visionary development initiated by late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum during sixties, is still guiding their path.

The development strategies are focused on building the best possible climate and facilities to improve the community's happiness and health. Fulfill the greatest human ambition for everyone. Their goal is to create such an environment that will suffice the needs of Dubai’s diverse population, by learning from global best practices and adapting them to local needs.  

Improving resource quality, creating vibrant, safe, inclusive neighborhoods, doubling green and recreational areas to provide a healthy atmosphere for everyone. Sustainable and versatile modes of transportation will increase economic development drawing international investment into new industries.

Enhancing environmental protection, preserving the emirate's cultural heritage, establishing holistic legislation and planning governance model are few other goals.

The Dubai Urban Master Plan focuses on development and investment in five major urban centers – three current and two new – to promote economic growth and job opportunities for everyone along with various lifestyle facilities. Deira and Bur Dubai are among the existing urban centers. Expo 2020 Centre and Dubai Silicon Oasis Centre are two of the two new centres.

Senior Dubai officials says:

Abdullah Al Basti, secretary-general of The Executive Council of Dubai:

One of Dubai's mission is to increase people's happiness and enhance social, environmental, and economic well-being with the latest master plan, strengthening development and ushering into a glorious future.

Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, managing director and CEO of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA):

He adds, all key stake holders are making sure that by establishing a new model for city planning and sustainable urban growth, the new master plan will elevate Dubai's status. The adoption of the Dubai Urban Master Plan 2040 marks a new beginning for Dubai to be the city of the future.

Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, group chairman and CEO of DP World:

He says, the new master plan would aid in emirate's efforts to alleviate the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic. Speed up its economic recovery and lay the foundation for a bright new post-pandemic future.

Sultan Butti bin Mejren, director general of Dubai Land Department:

He says, this master plan, will help Dubai to attract more foreign investment, especially those to advanced technologies. This new plan was launched at a time when countries around the world were updating strategies for recovering from the effects of Covid-19, positioning Dubai to contribute to regional and global efforts to restore economies and communities.

Malek Al Malek, director general of Dubai Development Authority (DDA):

He says, Dubai has an unrivalled quality of life, making it one of the best places to live, work, and visit in the world.  Dubai is committed to enhancing this one-of-a-kind value proposition by introducing the most effective urban planning policies.