Unveiling the Future: Dubai’s Green Tram System on E311?
Dubai’s latest urban planning marvel, a proposed tram project through Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Road (E311), promises to revolutionize sustainable transport and urban living. This $10 billion venture by a Dubai-based development firm aims to create the world’s greenest highway, spanning 64km and integrating 1 million trees along with urban farms and gardens.
Dubbed the ‘Dubai Green Spine,’ this ambitious project remains in the conceptual phase. According to the firm’s chief executive, no formal presentations have been made to authorities yet. If approved, the project would be executed in four phases over 10 years, covering a stretch from Dubai Industrial City to Muhaisnah.
Solar-Powered Innovation
The tram system, featuring 25 stations, will be powered by a 300-megawatt solar energy system. The integration of solar panels directly into the tracks eliminates the need for extensive overhead power lines, preserving the aesthetic appeal of the corridor. This system will generate enough power to supply approximately 130,000 homes in Dubai.
Green Infrastructure and Urban Amenities
The project will include pedestrian paths and cycling tracks lined with native flora, providing natural cooling and cleaner air. The Green Spine will also feature mixed-use assets blending residential, commercial, and leisure spaces, promoting a human-centric approach over car-dominated roads.
Sustainable Urban Development
Incorporating urban agriculture initiatives like vertical farms and community allotments, the project encourages residents to grow their food. Inspired by the April 16 rains and subsequent flooding, the Green Spine will feature sustainable urban drainage systems with porous surfaces to manage stormwater efficiently, reducing flood risks.
Elevated Parks and Community Spaces
Elevated parks within the Green Spine will offer playgrounds, outdoor fitness areas, sports facilities, and community gardens, enhancing the quality of urban life.
Other Ambitious Projects by URB
URB, the firm behind this vision, has previously unveiled other innovative projects such as ‘Dubai Mangroves,’ aiming to plant over 100 million mangrove trees; Dubai Reefs, a sustainable floating community for marine research, regeneration, and ecotourism; and ‘The Loop,’ a 93-km climate-controlled cycle highway around Dubai. Most of these projects are still in the research and development phase.
