Dubai Approves New Urban Planning Law to Encourage Investment and Sustainable Development
Dubai has recently approved a new urban planning law aimed at promoting investment and sustainable development in the emirate. Under the law, the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan will serve as the official structural plan for the city. The visionary plan was unveiled by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, in January last year.
The newly ratified law is designed to enhance governance in the planning sector and establish clear responsibilities for related authorities. It aims to improve cooperation and integration among these entities and increase the efficiency of preparing and implementing urban planning strategies and policies.
An important aspect of the law is its emphasis on aligning urban planning activities with adopted plans and policies, including the preservation of the environment, biodiversity, and natural resources of Dubai. It seeks to regulate and monitor these activities to ensure they are in line with the city’s sustainable development goals.
One key feature of the law is the establishment of an environmental impact assessment and strategic environmental assessment system, which will contribute to Dubai’s efforts in sustainable development.
Responsibility for regulating the urban planning sector in Dubai will fall solely upon the Dubai Municipality, as stated in the law.
The Dubai 2040 Urban Plan, as part of this latest legislation, encompasses five key development areas, each focusing on enhancing Dubai’s unique strengths. Deira and Bur Dubai will retain their traditional charm, while Downtown Dubai and Business Bay will serve as the financial center of the emirate. Dubai Marina and JBR will take the lead in tourism and entertainment, and Expo City Dubai will become the international gateway for exhibitions and events. Additionally, Dubai Silicon Oasis will be transformed into a knowledge and innovation hub.
In his announcement in December, Sheikh Mohammed highlighted the upcoming phase of the plan, which aims to ensure that the property sector is in line with market demand. This includes the creation of a 20-minute city, where residents can easily access 80% of their daily needs and destinations on foot or by bicycle within 20 minutes.
The plan also prioritizes high-yield agriculture and farming, with the identification of suitable locations and the development of necessary infrastructure for food security. Furthermore, efforts are underway to transform the town of Hatta into an adventure attraction centered around its existing lake and dam.
In May, Sheikh Mohammed gave his approval for a new master plan for Palm Jebel Ali, a luxury lifestyle mega project encompassing 13.4 square kilometers. The development will include 80 hotels and resorts, as well as green spaces, leisure facilities, and retail amenities, extending Dubai’s coastline by approximately 110 kilometers and offering beachside living to 35,000 families.
Dubai’s approval of this new urban planning law signifies the emirate’s commitment to sustainable development and attracting investment. With a comprehensive strategy in place, Dubai aims to shape its future as a vibrant city that caters to the needs of residents and visitors alike, while preserving its natural resources and enhancing its overall sustainability.
The implementation of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, alongside the regulations outlined in the new law, will pave the way for a greener, more sustainable and economically prosperous Dubai for generations to come.
