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Dubai’s ‘Super Block’ Project To Create Car-Free Areas

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

February 7, 2025

Dubai is set to transform several residential and commercial areas into pedestrian-only zones as part of the new ‘Super Block’ initiative. This project is aimed at enhancing the city’s pedestrian-friendly environment, fostering social interaction, and promoting sustainable mobility, in line with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan. The goal is to reduce carbon emissions, increase green spaces, and improve quality of life.

Key Areas To Benefit

The initial focus will be on areas like Al Fahidi, Abu Hail, Al Karama, and Al Quoz Creative Zone. These areas will become car-free, encouraging a more pedestrian-friendly atmosphere. The project was approved by the Dubai Executive Council, chaired by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, Crown Prince of Dubai.

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Supporting Dubai’s Vision

Sheikh Hamdan emphasized that this initiative aligns with Dubai’s broader development goals, which include making the city more sustainable and digitally innovative. As part of the Year of Community 2025, the project seeks to enhance social cohesion and contribute to the Dubai Social Agenda 33, backed by a budget of Dh208 billion.

Digital And Urban Transformation

The ‘Super Block’ initiative is part of a broader vision to integrate digital services and sustainable urban development. The Unified Digital Platform Initiative was also approved to streamline government services under a single platform, enhancing the digital experience for residents and businesses. Dubai aims to position itself as one of the top global cities for digital services by 2027, with full coverage and high customer satisfaction.

Other Initiatives

Other approved initiatives include the Community Development Fund Policy, which supports social programs, and the Strata Registration initiative, designed to enhance homeownership opportunities for UAE citizens by allowing property subdivisions and independent title deeds for each unit.

Through these efforts, Dubai continues to innovate and implement forward-thinking solutions, creating a resilient, inclusive, and sustainable society.

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Stelios Bi-Communal Awards To Award €500,000 Across 39 Teams In Cyprus

The annual Stelios Bi-Communal Awards, a hallmark of cross-community collaboration in Cyprus, will once again celebrate the innovative joint ventures between Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot entrepreneurs. The ceremony, scheduled for June 8 in Nicosia, underscores the vital role of business co-operation in fostering both economic growth and peaceful coexistence on the island.

Strengthening The Fabric Of Bi-Communal Collaboration

This year marks the 16th consecutive edition of the awards, which have contributed to creating business partnerships across the island. Organizers confirmed that 39 bi-communal teams, representing 78 entrepreneurs, will participate. According to the official announcement, Nikos Christodoulides is expected to attend the ceremony, adding institutional presence to the event.

Catalysing Innovation And Economic Opportunity

Teams are evaluated based on collaboration, innovation and business potential. The prize structure includes a Gold Award of €150,000, shared equally between partners. Two teams will receive Silver Awards totaling €200,000, while six teams will share €150,000 under the Bronze category. This structure distributes funding across multiple ventures at different stages of development.

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A Legacy Of Partnership And Investment

Since its launch, the programme has distributed more than €5.3 million in prize funding. Support comes from Stelios Haji-Ioannou, founder of the easy family of brands and chairman of the Stelios Philanthropic Foundation. The initiative continues to focus on supporting joint ventures between Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot entrepreneurs.

The Road Ahead

The upcoming ceremony, set to be held at the Stelios Philanthropic Foundation headquarters at 5 Markou Drakou Street in Nicosia at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, June 8, 2026, promises to be a landmark event. It will gather entrepreneurs and senior officials in a celebration of bi-communal success, reaffirming the potential of entrepreneurship to bridge divides and drive sustainable growth in Cyprus.