Sheikh Hamdan approves Architectural Identity for Dubai’s road projects; here's what that means

The strategy plans to marry aesthetics with character and practical consideration

Last updated: November 21, 2025 | 12:10

Karishma H. Nandkeolyar, Assistant Online Editor

2 MIN READ

It takes much planning to get Dubai looking as good as it does

Dr Naveen Aggarwal/Gulf News reader

If you look at Dubai from the skies, you'll find the cohesion of structure and hue pleasing to the eye. No random pops of colour to mangle your visuals. And the leadership of UAE is committed to keeping it this way.

On November 21, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai has approved the Architectural Identity for Dubai’s road projects. Here's a look at what that means for our city.

What do we know so far about Architectural Identity for Dubai’s road projects?

The strategy plans to marry aesthetics with character and practical consideration to create a city that not only looks future-ready but is.

What do the plans include?

Infrastructure elements such as bridges, canopies, street furniture, lighting, and aesthetic components. It also integrates sustainability and innovation principles.

The strategy aligns with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, which seeks to elevate quality of life and reinforce the city’s aesthetic identity.

The city has thus been split into six zones based on land use, predominant activities, and the architectural form and façades of buildings. The aim is to establish design standards for each zone to ensure visual harmony and reinforce the architectural identity, read a statement from Dubai Media Office.

Residential zones

Must emphasise privacy and tranquility
Will feature warm colours and materials inspired by the local environment

Rural Zones

Characterised by simplicity and functionality
Will reflect a natural and agricultural character through organic materials and light earthy tones

Mixed-use Zones

Combine residential and commercial functions
To adopt a flexible architectural language that allows integration between public and private spaces.

Historical and artistic zones

To highlight Dubai’s cultural and heritage identity through architectural details inspired by traditional design and local ornamentation.

High-end attraction zones

Contemporary urban façades, modern architectural forms, and unique materials

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Karishma H. NandkeolyarAssistant Online Editor

Karishma Nandkeolyar is a lifestyle and entertainment journalist with a lifelong love for storytelling — she wrote her first “book” at age six and has been chasing the next sentence ever since. Known for her sharp wit, thoughtful takes, and ability to find the humor in just about anything, she covers everything from celebrity culture and internet trends to everyday lifestyle moments that make you go, “Same.” Her work blends insight with a conversational tone that feels like catching up with your cleverest friend — if your friend also had a deadline and a latte in hand. Off-duty, Karishma is a proud dog mom who fully believes her pup has a personality worth documenting, and yes, she does narrate those inner monologues out loud. Whether she’s writing features, curating content, or crafting the perfect headline, Karishma brings curiosity, creativity, and just the right amount of sarcasm to the mix.

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