Today's Edition
BATOOL GHAITH (ABU DHABI)
As Abu Dhabi advances its goal of becoming one of the world’s most liveable cities, residents can look forward to new developments and infrastructure projects aimed at further enhancing quality of life.
Backed by a recently approved Dh42 billion fund, an expanded Abu Dhabi Liveability Strategy will see the rollout of more cycling tracks, landscaping works, and community facilities, such as playgrounds, clinics, majlises, and schools.
Abu Dhabi has already been recognised as the most liveable city in the MENA region by the Economist Intelligence Unit. As continuous development and innovative projects move forward, the emirate aims to elevate its standing on the global stage.
By developing amenities that meet residents’ needs, the emirate is building neighbourhoods that promote healthier lifestyles. Experts say this can foster a more active community who would rather walk or cycle instead of taking their cars.
Corporate wellness expert Diego Carrete highlights how powerful urban design can be in shaping daily movement. “It is a complete game-changer, as this incorporates movement as a part of daily life, not a scheduled chore.”
“This builds a foundation of consistent, low-intensity activity for everyone, from kids to seniors, which is exactly what longevity science tells us to do,” Carrete told Aletihad.
He believes the structure of the city itself can change the behaviour of people. “If you build a city that allows people to walk, they will walk — this makes the healthy choice the easy choice.”
According to Carrete, daily walking is more sustainable than occasional gym visits, as it becomes normal to see neighbours out and about, which is motivating.
“This is more than just physical fitness. It is about mental clarity and community. More green space and less traffic directly lowers stress. More face-to-face interactions on the street combat loneliness. So, this builds a happier, more connected society,” Carrete explained.
Enhanced walkability also supports the emirate’s environmental goals, considering that vehicles contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. Jessica Scopacasa, Co-Founder and CMO of climate-tech startup Olive Gaea, pointed out: “ We need to cut emissions by around 43% by 2030, so we are already racing against time. Every 0.1°C of additional warming has a huge impact on our quality of life.”
Sustainable urban planning can reshape how people live, connect, and raise future generations, offering a long-term benefit, Scopacasa said.
“When cities like Abu Dhabi make it easier to walk, cycle, and enjoy green spaces, children grow up valuing nature, health, and shared spaces. Safer, walkable neighbourhoods mean fewer accidents, better physical and mental health, and a deeper appreciation for the environment,” she added.
Abu Dhabi resident Lina Al Masri loves going on walks with friends and family, especially during winter months.
“This kind of project shows that Abu Dhabi is thinking about our wellbeing, not just development. I am excited to walk more and spend time outside, it makes me feel connected to people too,” she told Aletihad.
The first phase of the Abu Dhabi Liveability Strategy has already yielded exceptional results, “elevating standards across the emirate through a focused approach that addresses the unique priorities of each area”, according to Eng. Abdulla Mohamed Al Blooshi, Acting Director General of the Urban Planning and Permits Centre at the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT).
Average district completion scores across the emirate reached 81% in 2025, up from 67% prior to the strategy’s introduction in 2023. More than 60 projects worth Dh12 billion were identified as key contributors, including the construction of over 200 parks and sports courts, 24 schools, 21 mosques, and 28 community majlises, in addition to 120km of walking paths, 283km cycling tracks, and 220km of new street lighting, along with 200 beautification works.
