The Dubai Creek extension up to the Arabian Gulf via Business Bay will provide an alternative transport route for residents and tourists.

"The canal will be part of Dubai's ambitious plan for water transport, as it will be used by private boats as well as ferries for public transport.

"Passengers will be able to take water transport from the Dubai Creek to reach Business Bay, Jumeirah, Al Wasl or Shaikh Zayed Road," said Engineer Mattar Al Tayer, Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director of the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).

His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, yesterday reviewed the Dubai Creek extension project and approved a plan to further extend the water channel by 2.2km from Shaikh Zayed Road to the Arabian Gulf, passing through Safa Park, Al Wasl Road, Jumeirah 2, Jumeirah Road and Jumeirah Beach Park.

The work on the 100-metre wide channel is under way between the main Dubai Creek in Ras Al Khor and Shaikh Zayed Road.



Bridges

Al Tayer said there would be bridges over the new water channel with a minimum height of 8.5 metres to provide enough space for boats to pass beneath.

"Stations for passengers using water transport and private boats will be built on both sides of the water channel," he said. "It will be one of Dubai's major attractions both for tourists and residents."

Al Tayer said in line with Shaikh Mohammad's instructions, the RTA would carry out more projects, amendments and additions on many roads in areas around the water channel.

He said the roads in Jumeirah, Al Wasl and around Safa Park would also be improved to ensure the free flow of traffic and pedestrians.

"There will be walkways and water sports facilities along the channel where as pedestrian crossings will also be build on it at different locations including Safa Park," Al Tayer said.

Both sides of the water channel will have green areas to make it a popular place to visit.