Vision: Dubai as a Global Exemplar Our proposal pioneers active travel, establishing a model for world-class cities like Toronto, London, Copenhagen, and Rome, encouraging greener, sustainable urbanism.
Dubai’s Context: Fostering Active Transport Modern Dubai is a Polycentric City. While cars and the Metro offer transport choices, our proposal makes walking and cycling attractive, comfortable, and engaging. This enhances physical and mental wellbeing by creating safe, calm, beautiful, nature-integrated environments. As city infrastructure, the urban spine forms the latest addition to RTA’s infrastructure for urban mobility
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Gold 🏆 Winner
Global Future Design Awards 2025
Dubai Active Mobility
Future Architecture (Concept)
Firm
Chris Williamson RIBA
Architect/Designer
Chris Williamson
Design Team
Chris Williamson
Location
Dubai
Country
United Kingdom
Photographer/Copyright
©Chris Williamson
Website
http://www.chriswilliamsonRIBA.com
Instagram
N/A
Facebook
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Whatsapp
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The Proposal: A Sustainable, Nature-Integrated Network We propose a sustainable walking and cycling route using local, pre-tensioned stone, signifying Dubai as a pioneering active city. Its innovative structure channels breezes, aided by solar-powered fans. Varied stone colours and integrated planting identify and celebrate Dubai’s distinct districts. The basic 5m x 5m module of pre-tensioned stone arches provides shelter, shade, safety, and wayfinding. Between arches, trellises with Bougainvillea, jasmine, and other fragrant climbers offer nature contact and wildlife habitat.
Impact: Enhancing Mobility and Liveability The aim is to attract travelers from cars to a more sustainable travel experience, link Metro stations, and provide an active travel hub between transport modalities.
Global Adaptability Our proposals will set a standard for other cities. In colder climates, heating could be added; structure and planting would be contextual. However, the principles of attracting active movement and utilising local materials and traditional construction remain equally relevant.
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