Dubai Municipality has announced the launch of the ‘Urban Think Tank & Design Lab’ to strengthen Dubai’s position as a global hub for city design. The innovative platform introduces a new approach to urban design standards, renewal, and community-focused city planning.

Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, witnessed the launch. She stated that Dubai’s experience shows that the cities of the future will be innovative, regenerative, and people-focused.

She said the initiative reflects Dubai’s forward-looking approach and will transform ideas into urban solutions with real impact. She highlighted that by using advanced technology and artificial intelligence, Dubai aims to build resilient communities that adapt to global change and enhance quality of life.

Dubai Municipality revealed that the first project under the Lab will focus on urban renewal in older residential areas. The initiative will revive neighbourhood identities and create human-centred communities.

• Ten strategic partnerships have been signed to build an integrated ecosystem for design, research, and implementation.
• Partners include Emaar, Dubai Holding, Wasl, Sobha Realty, Binghatti Holding, and global consultancy Foster + Partners.

His Excellency Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita, Director General of Dubai Municipality, said the Lab aims to position Dubai as a global design hub. He noted it will attract international architects, strengthen partnerships, and foster community dialogue to ensure design remains centred on people’s needs.

The launch ceremony was held at the Museum of the Future and attended by government representatives, developers, researchers, and academics. Special sessions and dialogues were hosted, including a panel discussion on designing vibrant future communities through participatory design.

Dubai Municipality confirmed that the Lab will test new technologies, apply research-driven insights, and integrate artificial intelligence, digital simulation, and digital twin technologies into urban planning projects.

The initiative aims to advance Dubai’s readiness for the future, enhance quality of life, and reinforce its status as a global incubator for setting city design standards.

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