Dubai completes Deira wharf makeover at Dh112 million

The two-kilometre-long Dubai Creek wharf on the Deira side is complete now, announced Dubai Municipality on Sunday.

The project, which involved an expenditure of Dh112 million, aims to strengthen the quay’s infrastructure, improve operational efficiency, and reinforce the historical waterway’s commercial and tourism appeal. 

Works included increasing the retaining wall height to 8.3 metres and equipping the quay with 200 anchors and 500 ship berths. These upgrades enhance maritime navigation safety and bolster the creek’s ability to handle a variety of commercial and tourism-related marine activities. 

The development is part of Dubai Municipality’s efforts to preserve the heritage of Dubai Creek, one of the emirate’s most important maritime corridors.

Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita, Director General of Dubai Municipality, said: “The development of the Dubai Creek wharf on the Deira side is a strategic infrastructure milestone that supports the vision of Dubai’s leadership and the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33.” 

He added: “Comprehensive upgrades were implemented using advanced equipment and flexible plans that ensured uninterrupted marine traffic. Development on the Bur Dubai side is already underway, spanning 2.3 kilometres. Once completed, the works will provide enhanced safety and efficiency for maritime navigation across both sides of the creek.” 

Infrastructure, tourism upgrades

To improve water flow, the creek bed was dredged by 17,500 cubic metres, while 24,000 cubic metres of protective rock were placed to strengthen infrastructure durability. A total of 22,500 cubic metres of concrete and 1,315 precast blocks were used in the project. The quay’s rear yard was also equipped with a 1,200-metre rainwater drainage network. In total, the development required more than 620,000 man-hours to complete. 

The total side area of the quay was expanded to 320,000 square feet, comprising cargo handling zones and a new public promenade designed to offer visitors a space for leisure and recreation along the waterfront. Despite rapid development across Dubai, the creek remains an iconic feature of the city’s identity and continues to serve as a functional, historical, and touristic destination. 

Dubai Municipality awarded the contract for the project in February 2024.