Abu Dhabi to double walkways and bike trails by 2020

The Walking and Cycling Master Plan, released Tuesday, would ensure residents could travel in a healthier way than driving.

“We know how beneficial walking and cycling are, not only to the health and well-being of the public but also to the environment as they create little to no emissions,” said Abdullah Al Mehairbi, the head of public transport planning.

“The public will be provided with shaded walkways, safe crossing points, and walking and cycling routes and facilities, especially in the commercial and central areas of Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Al Gharbia.”

But a change in attitudes towards exercise and outdoor activities is essential for Abu Dhabi to become more pedestrian and bike-friendly.

Encouraging people to think about alternatives to cars from a young age was the most important aspect of the plan, said Saeed Al Hameli, the department’s executive director for surface transport.