Cars have always been the undisputed kings of Dubai’s express highways and bylanes. But that’s steadily changing one cycle-wheel revolution at a time, with dedicated bike lanes and stretches of roads assigned to lycra-clad pedallers. Joining that catalogue is a spanking new cycling underpass in Meydan. The 160 metres-long Meydan cycle tunnel is reserved for cyclists and cyclists only.
Yes, it’s car-free and entirely safe for zipping through on your two-wheeler without fear of being edged off the road by a speeding Landcruiser (haven’t we all been there, sigh). Measuring 6.6km in width, this winding tunnel has the capacity to accommodate approximately 800 bicycles per hour. That means there’s a high chance of this new subway hosting some of the city’s many bicycle races.
How’s this new Meydan cycle tunnel useful?
This tunnel’s real purpose is to ensure uninterrupted movement along the Meydan cycling track. Plus, it reduces waiting time for cyclists at the busy Meydan intersection and frees up the road for car drivers. The track is also well-connected to the Meydan and Nad Al Sheba communities and the Cyclist Club. So you can expect speedier cycle commutes to and from these destinations.
Fitted out with day and night lighting, the state-of-the-art Meydan cycle tunnel can be used 24/7. Designed according to international safety standards and technical guidelines, it’s quite pretty to look at too! The interiors are done up in light blue tiles featuring landscapes of plateaus and hills at sunset and silhouettes of cyclists.
#RTA has opened a new tunnel specifically designed for cyclists in Al Meydan area. The tunnel spans 160m in length and 6.6m in width, with a capacity to accommodate approximately 800 bicycles per hour. https://t.co/6pqh6VIL3f pic.twitter.com/uy0Ssvqday
— RTA (@rta_dubai) May 2, 2023
This tunnel is a stepping stone in the RTA’s ambitions for Dubai to become a bicycle-friendly city on par with the Amsterdams and Antwerps of the world. The mission is that Dubai has a remarkable 819km of cycling tracks by the end of 2026.
Fasten those helmets and ride towards the light at the end of this fabulous new cycling tunnel!