Ajman To Redesign Neighbourhoods To Cut Travel Time, Boost Walkability

(MENAFN- Khaleej Times)

Officials say the new planning framework seeks to balance expansion with sustainability, protecting green spaces and improving neighbourhood connectivity

• PUBLISHED: Fri 20 Feb 2026, 11:14 AM

• By:
• Afkar Ali Ahmed

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For many residents in Ajman, daily life still revolves around traffic - from school drop-offs to work commutes and routine errands.

But that pattern could gradually shift as the emirate moves forward with an integrated urban plan aimed at making neighbourhoods more connected, walkable and less car-dependent.

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Sheikh Rashid bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Chairman of Ajman's Municipality and Planning Department, recently reviewed the emirate's Integrated Urban Plan, a long-term development framework that places mobility and quality of life at the centre of future growth.

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The strategy focuses on directing expansion into defined neighbourhood hubs rather than allowing scattered outward development.

Officials say the approach is designed to reduce travel distances, ease infrastructure pressure and improve access to essential services.

Speaking to Khaleej Times, Dr Eng Mohammed Ahmed bin Omair Al Muhairi, Executive Director of the Infrastructure Development Sector, said the plan directly addresses residents' everyday mobility concerns.

“Our objective is to concentrate urban growth within organised centres and neighbourhoods that support walkability and community vitality,” he said.“When residents can access schools, healthcare, retail and public services within a 15-minute walk, it reduces dependence on private vehicles and enhances overall quality of life.”

He stressed that the plan is not limited to road expansion.

“This is not simply about building wider roads,” Dr Al Muhairi added.“It is about improving land-use efficiency, limiting unregulated urban sprawl and ensuring infrastructure investments deliver long-term value for the community.”

Smarter transport planning

Transportation reform forms a key pillar of the framework. The emirate aims to develop a multi-modal, low-carbon transport network that prioritises public transport, walking and cycling alongside private vehicles.

According to officials, data-driven systems and artificial intelligence tools will support decision-making, enabling planners to forecast traffic flows and anticipate future infrastructure needs.

“Urban planning must be dynamic and responsive to change,” Dr Al Muhairi said.“By relying on accurate data and forward-looking indicators, we can design transport systems that are efficient, flexible and sustainable.”

Among the performance benchmarks being introduced are measurements of how much new development takes place within approved growth boundaries and how many residents can access daily services within walking distance.

Upgrading older districts

The integrated plan also addresses parts of Ajman developed more than four decades ago.

Updated redevelopment guidelines are being introduced to modernise infrastructure and public spaces while preserving the emirate's identity.

Several areas have already undergone redesign and improvement, with further upgrades expected to enhance accessibility, street design and community facilities.

Balancing growth and liveability

Ajman continues to attract residents drawn by its housing options and strategic location. As population growth continues, pressure on roads and public services is increasing.

Officials say the new planning framework seeks to balance expansion with sustainability, protecting green spaces, improving neighbourhood connectivity and reducing unnecessary travel demand.

If implemented effectively, the impact may be gradual but tangible: shorter daily trips, safer pedestrian routes and communities designed around people rather than vehicles.

For residents, that could mean spending less time in traffic and more time within reach of what matters most.

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