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In 2009, the Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council appointed Otak International to develop an Urban Street Design Manual, providing an Emirate-wide framework for both new streets and the retrofitting of existing urban corridors. The Manual supports the principles outlined in the Plan Abu Dhabi 2030 vision, aimed at creating a walkable, sustainable, and culturally grounded Arabic city.
The Manual responds to the evolving needs of street users by prioritizing pedestrians at the top of the hierarchy. To achieve the long-term vision of Plan 2030, it introduces a new street typology system based on urban context, form, and transportation function. It also defines a structured street design process that emphasizes network connectivity and improved capacity across urban streets.Comprehensive guidance is provided for pedestrian accessibility, cycling infrastructure, and public transport integration, along with strategies for streetscape enhancement. The Manual further highlights the use of native and drought-tolerant planting suited to the Emirate’s ecosystem, as well as the critical role of shaded walkways in encouraging walking and improving access to transit.
The Emirate of Abu Dhabi adopted Plan Abu Dhabi 2030, a forward-looking vision for a sustainable future grounded in the principles of smart growth. In response to rapid urban expansion, Abu Dhabi sought to establish land use plans and development regulations that would ensure both current and future growth align with the objectives of Plan 2030. The Urban Planning Council of Abu Dhabi appointed Otak to design a Spatial Development Regulation System for the entire metropolitan area of Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates.
Prior to developing the regulations, Otak’s urban design and planning team conducted a comprehensive analysis of the city’s urban form, including the Central Business District and surrounding urban areas. This included the development of urban form diagrams and conceptual land use frameworks for key city precincts.The planning phase established foundational principles to guide future urban development and led to the creation of the Abu Dhabi Development Code. The resulting Development Management Program serves as a critical tool for government authorities, developers, and the public, ensuring that all new development contributes to Abu Dhabi’s long-term vision for a sustainable and well-structured urban future.