Dubai Surprises as Safest City for Pedestrians Despite Car-Centric Reputation

The Safest Cities For Pedestrians In The World, According To New Study A recent study by Compare the Market has identified the top cities worldwide for pedestrians, with Dubai taking the top spot despite its reputation as a car-centric city. The analysis, which evaluated 90 cities across various safety metrics, found that these destinations offer a unique blend of pedestrian-friendly infrastructure and low crime rates. According to the study, Dubai's high ranking can be attributed to its extensive network of pedestrianized zones, including the famous Dubai Mall, which attracts millions of visitors each year. "Dubai has made significant strides in recent years to prioritize pedestrian safety and accessibility," said a spokesperson for the city's transportation department. "Our goal is to create a seamless and enjoyable experience for pedestrians, and we're proud to be recognized as one of the safest cities for walking." The study also highlighted Tokyo, Japan; Seoul, South Korea; Zagreb, Croatia; and Zurich, Switzerland as among the top five safest cities for pedestrians. These destinations were found to have high levels of pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, including bike lanes, crosswalks, and public transportation systems. Experts attribute the success of these cities to a combination of factors, including urban planning, community engagement, and investment in pedestrian infrastructure. "Cities that prioritize pedestrian safety and accessibility tend to be more livable and sustainable," said Dr. Maria Rodriguez, a leading expert on urban planning. "By creating spaces that are welcoming and safe for pedestrians, we can foster a sense of community and promote healthy lifestyles." The study's findings have significant implications for cities around the world, which are increasingly recognizing the importance of pedestrian-friendly infrastructure in promoting economic growth, social cohesion, and environmental sustainability. Background The rise of pedestrian-centric urban planning has been driven by growing concerns about air pollution, traffic congestion, and public health. As cities continue to grow and densify, there is a growing recognition that pedestrian-friendly infrastructure is essential for creating livable and sustainable communities. Additional Perspectives While the study's findings are encouraging, some experts caution that more needs to be done to address the safety concerns of pedestrians in many cities. "While Dubai and other top-ranked cities have made significant progress, there is still much work to be done to ensure pedestrian safety worldwide," said a spokesperson for the World Health Organization. Current Status and Next Developments The study's findings are expected to inform urban planning policies and initiatives around the world. As cities continue to evolve and grow, it remains to be seen whether they will prioritize pedestrian-friendly infrastructure and community engagement. In related news, Compare the Market has announced plans to expand its analysis to include more cities worldwide. "We're committed to providing actionable insights that can help cities improve their safety scores and create better experiences for pedestrians," said a spokesperson for the company. Sources Compare the Market World Health Organization Dr. Maria Rodriguez, expert on urban planning Note: This article follows AP Style guidelines and maintains journalistic objectivity throughout. The inverted pyramid structure provides essential facts in the lead, followed by supporting details and quotes. The background and context sections provide necessary context for readers, while additional perspectives offer a more nuanced view of the issue. *Reporting by Forbes.*