Dubai Green Spine Project remains a proposed $10 billion sustainable transport development designed to transform Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311) into a 64-kilometre green urban corridor. The Dubai-based urban planning firm URB developed the concept to integrate road infrastructure, renewable energy, public transport and extensive green spaces.
However, the development has not established a confirmed construction commencement date or publicly announced implementation contract. URB continues to showcase the proposal through its official project portfolio.
The project originally emerged as a vision for transforming one of Dubai’s major highways. Its estimated investment stands at $10 billion, according to information released when URB unveiled the concept in July 2024. At that stage, URB Chief Executive Baharash Bagherian confirmed that the proposal had not undergone formal presentation to government authorities.
URB’s current project description continues to outline the 64km corridor and its proposed infrastructure components. Nevertheless, publicly available information does not establish regulatory approval, construction procurement or contractor appointments.
Dubai Green Spine Project Targets 64km Transport Transformation
The proposed development would extend along Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, connecting Dubai Industrial City with Muhaisnah. Its design seeks to transform the existing highway corridor into a multifunctional urban environment.
According to URB, the development would combine solar-powered tram infrastructure with dedicated pedestrian and cycling routes. It would also introduce public spaces, community facilities and extensive landscaping.
The proposed transport system would feature approximately 25 tram stations. Solar installations would support the tram network and generate electricity for surrounding infrastructure.
URB estimates that the integrated solar system could generate 300 megawatts of renewable electricity. This capacity could supply approximately 130,000 homes, according to the original project announcement.
Furthermore, the development proposes planting approximately one million trees along the corridor. The landscaping would introduce native and adapted vegetation to improve biodiversity and provide natural cooling.
The proposal also incorporates urban agriculture through vertical farms and community gardens. These facilities would combine environmental improvements with opportunities for local food production.
Meanwhile, elevated parks would provide recreational spaces, playgrounds and outdoor fitness facilities. The wider development would integrate residential, commercial and leisure amenities.
Dubai Green Spine Project Integrates Renewable Energy and Climate Resilience
Renewable energy represents a central component of the proposed infrastructure. URB plans to integrate solar panels throughout the corridor, including within the tram infrastructure.
The developer also proposes energy storage systems to manage fluctuations in solar electricity generation. Smart-grid technology would help distribute electricity according to infrastructure demand.
Additionally, the proposed development includes intelligent transport management systems. Internet-connected sensors would support traffic monitoring and infrastructure management.
Stormwater management also features prominently in the design. The proposal includes permeable surfaces, bioswales and sustainable drainage infrastructure.
These systems would help manage surface runoff during heavy rainfall. They would also support water conservation and reduce pressure on conventional drainage infrastructure.
The project aligns with Dubai’s 2040 Urban Master Plan. That strategy promotes interconnected communities, sustainable mobility and improved environmental conditions.
However, the Green Spine’s transition from concept to construction remains the critical milestone. Regulatory approvals, government coordination, financing and procurement will determine its implementation prospects.
The proposed development also reflects a wider regional shift towards integrated transport infrastructure. Riyadh’s $43 billion planned northern roads network, for example, focuses on improving connectivity around King Salman International Airport ahead of Expo 2030.
While Riyadh prioritizes road capacity and airport access, Dubai’s Green Spine proposes combining mobility infrastructure with renewable energy and extensive public spaces.
Developer of the World’s Greenest Highway Project
Green Spine is the brainchild of Urb, a Dubai-based architectural firm that designs “net zero sustainable cities” across the Persian Gulf. Urb’s other notable projects include the Dubai Mangroves, an ecotourism-focused coastal regeneration initiative, and the Alnama Smart City in Riyadh. Baharash Bagherian, CEO of Urb, said that the Green Spine will make Dubai a “more livable and human-centric” city. He sees Green Spine as at the forefront of a wider shift in the urban planning paradigm, and one which prioritizes “people and green spaces over cars.”
“It challenges conventional infrastructure norms, proving that our streets can do more than facilitate car traffic; they can significantly enhance quality of life,” Bagherian said.
According to Urb, the Green Spine will combine “cutting-edge sustainability, enhanced community living, and pioneering green infrastructure to redefine urban mobility.”
Solar panels will be “extensively integrated” into the walkable route, taking advantage of the region’s arid and sunny climate.
Energy Capacity of the Project
If successful, Urb believes that the Green Spine can generate over 300 megawatts of clean energy, enough to power around 130,000 homes in Dubai, while reducing the city’s CO2 emissions by around 1,051,200 tons annually.
However, the project will also feature “advanced energy storage solutions,” which Urb revealed would help to account for the intermittent nature of solar power, though it did not provide specifics on these systems.
“The shift to solar energy not only helps mitigate climate change but also improves air quality, reduces dependence on imported fuels, and enhances energy security,” Urb said. The new green spaces will be integrated with cycling tracks, pedestrian paths and a 100 percent solar-powered tram system, “creating a seamless and environmentally friendly transportation network.”
Significance of the Project
Moreover, its designers describe the project as a “strategic endeavor to cultivate a greener, more livable city.”
“By converting one of the city’s major arterial roads into a multifunctional public realm, the project introduces extensive greenery, promotes non-motorized transport, and integrates renewable energy sources,” Urb said.
The project is aligned with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, which focuses on reducing carbon emissions, improving air quality and fostering vibrant, interconnected communities across the city.
The Master Plan, unveiled in 2021, outlined several initiatives toward “sustainable urban development,” in preparation for an anticipated 5 million increase in the city’s residents by 2040.
Lastly, according to Urb, the plan will require “robust infrastructure,” and they are confident that the Green Spine will be capable of adapting to the “changing climate conditions and urban demands” that lie ahead for Dubai.
Project Fact Sheet
Name: Dubai Green Spine.
Type: Sustainable highway and urban infrastructure development.
Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
Highway corridor: Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311).
Proposed route length: 64 kilometres.
Estimated project cost: $10 billion.
Project status: Concept-stage proposal; implementation approval not confirmed.
Developer and designer: URB.
Project lead: Baharash Bagherian.
Proposed tram infrastructure: Approximately 25 stations.
Renewable energy capacity: 300MW.
Proposed electricity supply: Approximately 130,000 homes.
Proposed landscaping: Approximately one million trees.
Transport infrastructure: Solar-powered trams, cycling tracks and pedestrian pathways.
Additional facilities: Elevated parks, urban farms, community gardens and recreational spaces.
Drainage infrastructure: Permeable surfaces, bioswales and sustainable drainage systems.
Strategic alignment: Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan.
Project Team
Developer and design firm: URB.
Project lead and founder: Baharash Bagherian.
Concept development: URB.
Urban planning: URB.
Infrastructure design: URB.
Renewable energy planning: URB.
Transport concept development: URB.
Landscape and public realm concept: URB.
