‫‪District‬‬

‫‪Capital‬‬
‫مجلس أبوظبي للتخطيط العمراني‬
‫ص‪.‬ب ‪62221‬‬
‫أبوظبي‪ ،‬اإلمارات العربية المتحدة‬
‫‪Tel: +971 2 409 6000‬‬
‫‪Fax: +971 2 443 2903‬‬
‫‪www.upc.gov.ae‬‬

‫‪Capital District‬‬
Masterplan Summary

Capital District
Mandate

HH Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan
President of the United Arab Emirates
Ruler of Abu Dhabi
The Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council was created
by Emiri Decree number 23 of the year 2007 and is
the agency responsible for the future of Abu Dhabi’s
urban environments, and the expert authority behind
the visionary Plan Abu Dhabi 2030 Urban Structure
Framework Plan published September 2007. Chaired
by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan,
Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu
Dhabi Executive Council, the Abu Dhabi Urban Planning
Council defines the shape of the Emirate, ensuring
factors such as sustainability, infrastructure capacity,
community planning and quality of life, by overseeing
development across the city and the Emirate as a
whole. The Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council ensures
best practice in planning for both new and existing
urban areas.
The Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council’s primary
purpose is to deliver the vision of His Highness Sheikh
Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, Ruler
of Abu Dhabi for the continued fulfilment of the grand
design envisaged by the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan
Al Nahyan and the ongoing evolution of Abu Dhabi as a The late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan
global capital city. Founder of the United Arab Emirates.
Contents
Foreword Page 1
Creating a Global Capital Page 5
Masterplan Vision Page 11
Masterplan Process Page 15
Site Location & Context Page 19
Guiding Principles Page 27
Urban Design Layers Page 39
Land Use Strategies Page 43
Precinct Summaries Page 59
Next Generation Planning Page 91
Appendix Design Guidelines Page 95
Foreword
1
 The Capital District is a key project of Plan Abu
Dhabi 2030, a monumental planning initiative
envisaged by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan
Al Nahyan to guide and promote the ongoing
evolution of Abu Dhabi as a global capital city.
The Capital District Masterplan, developed by the Abu Dhabi
Urban Planning Council, is designed to manage the development
of the new city through a long term vision. It represents a unique
opportunity to create an authentic sustainable modern Arab capital,
which will shape the future of the region by defining a unique and
contemporary urbanism.

At the heart of the Capital District will be a Federal Precinct, which

2
will serve as the national seat of government for the United Arab
Emirates. At the city’s centre, a radial pattern of streets surrounds a
central monumental space. From this point, a series of seven grand
boulevards, representing the seven emirates, connect this symbolic
centre with surrounding districts. Along primary boulevards and at
gateways to the city, monuments and public spaces will reinforce
the city’s ceremonial and symbolic function. The creation of distinct
districts and national institutions connected by grand boulevards,
walkable streets and monumental spaces will symbolically link
national government, city life and Emirati culture.

Central to the Capital District Masterplan is the commitment to

create a sense of identity and community. The Masterplan aims to
preserve the traditions, heritage and way of life for Emirati’s, while
being flexible enough to accommodate the needs of the Emirate’s
diverse population. Each neighbourhood will be well-served by a
wide range of community services and amenities.

The Capital District will also become a centre of learning and

excellence. New universities, a medical campus and biomedical
research facilities offering great potential for synergies with the
private sector, will all be housed here. A world-class transportation
system will connect neighbourhoods within the Capital District and
connect the City to the wider region. An extensive public transit
network will provide a focus for high density development, alleviate
traffic congestion and reduce reliance on the automobile.

Developed over an eighteen month period between late 2007

and early 2009, the Capital District Masterplan will serve as the
foundation upon which all future land use, transportation, and
urban planning decisions in this new city will be made. As a road
map for the future, the Masterplan establishes quantifiable targets
for population, land uses, transportation and pedestrian access. It
covers the location and quantity of mosques, parks, schools and
utilities, as well as building and open space performance targets
for meeting Estidama goals. In addition, the Masterplan describes
the design intent and character of individual precincts, districts and
neighbourhoods. Design considerations, such as the relationship
between buildings and spaces, architectural character, and sense of
place are all addressed.

The Masterplan will serve as an evolving tool to assist the UPC,

government officials, and land owners to implement the Capital
District in keeping with the goals and principles of Plan Abu Dhabi
2030 and its vision for creating a sustainable, world-class Capital
City for the United Arab Emirates.

Our ultimate goal is to create a cohesive, contemporary and

sustainable urban fabric for this new city. The Masterplan provides
the clarity and direction for achieving this goal in a way that serves
the various and distinctive community expectations, now and well
into the future.

H.E. Falah Al Ahbabi,

General Manager,
Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council
3
Creating a
Global Capital
5
6
7
 In 2006, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al
Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of
the Executive Council, mandated the Executive Affairs
Authority to design and implement a planning initiative to
guide the evolution of Abu Dhabi as a Global Capital City.
8
Trends that influenced this initiative include:
• The continued expansion of the economy
• Rapid population growth
• Liberalized real estate laws
• Significant foreign investment
• Construction projects of unprecedented size

A distinguished Taskforce that included local government leaders and international
experts was appointed to create a long term urban plan for Metropolitan Abu
Dhabi to the year 2030 based on the following two core objectives:

• Create an attractive/livable and sustainable managed urban environment in

which all necessary services and infrastructure are provided.
• Ensure a vibrant mix of cultures is able to flourish in Abu Dhabi’s livable
spaces, while maintaining the unique traditions and cultures of the Emirates.

The Taskforce was also mandated to recommend the most effective regulatory
and institutional framework for managing and implementing the plan.

The resulting Plan Abu Dhabi 2030: Urban Structure Framework Plan and
terms of reference for the Urban Planning Council were prepared by the
Taskforce and adopted by the Abu Dhabi Executive Affairs Authority in 2007.

Articulating a clear direction and description of future growth, the Plan

anticipates a population of 3 million by 2030 centred on the themes of
sustainability, economy and environment. In addition to offering far reaching
land use proposals, it embodies a framework for the management of Abu
Dhabi’s future growth according to the following overarching principles:

• Abu Dhabi will be a contemporary expression of an Arab city

• Growth in the city will be measured to reflect a sustainable economy
• Development in the city will respect, be scaled to, and be shaped by the
natural environment of coastal and desert ecologies
• Abu Dhabi will manifest its role and stature as a capital city
• The urban fabric and community infrastructure will enable the values,
social arrangements and culture of an Arab city

Plan Abu Dhabi 2030 envisions two major urban cores linked by a world-
class transit system. The first is the historic centre of Abu Dhabi at the
northern tip of Abu Dhabi Island. Together with designated near shore
islands currently under development, this area is visualized as an expanded
and enhanced Central Business District (CBD) with a concentrated focus of
commercial activity surrounded by higher density residential communities.

The second urban core is an entirely new Capital District, located south
of Abu Dhabi Island between Mohamed bin Zayed City and Abu Dhabi
International Airport. Positioned where the desert meets the sea, and
shaped by a rich heritage, the Capital District will serve as a second
downtown for Abu Dhabi and be a sustainable, authentic and modern
Arab city. It will be planned and designed to manifest Abu Dhabi’s role
as a capital city, with a Federal Precinct at its heart that will serve as the
national seat of government.
9
Masterplan
Vision
11
12
With an area of forty-five square kilometres, and a projected
population of three hundred and seventy thousand residents, the
Capital District is one of the most ambitious urban development
projects being planned in the United Arab Emirates.

The Capital District Masterplan provides a long term vision toward

13
2030 for the development of a global, 21st Century capital based on
sound planning principles, sustainable criteria toward environmental
quality and energy consumption and a desire to provide the highest
quality of life possible for all its citizens.

In creating this new city, the Masterplan has capitalized on the site’s
physical assets - its centrality within the region and accessibility
to both Abu Dhabi Island and to emerging developments on the
mainland; its proximity to a well-connected highway network;
coastal climate and breezes; and its adjacencies to existing
residential neighbourhoods. The site’s triangular shape provided
strong cues for organizing development around proposed high
capacity transit lines through the site and in creating a series
of symbolic and visual axes that link important civic spaces and
landmarks, terminating at a central civic space that will represent
the nation.

The Capital District is planned as a sustainable, compact, mixed-

use city, comprised of high-density transit-oriented communities,
employment, major universities, hospitals and knowledge-
based employment sectors, as well as a lower density Emirati
Neighbourhood. A central driver behind the Masterplan vision is
the symbiotic relationship between land use and transportation in
the creation of high quality, attractive district and neighbourhood
centres, vibrant streets and public spaces, and well-planned
cultural and community facilities, all served by a world-class public
transportation system.

The Capital District will be the new seat of national government and
house a diplomatic and embassy neighbourhood. It will also serve
as the city of Abu Dhabi’s second business district, providing over
one hundred thousand jobs in a dynamic mixed-use urban core. In
addition to a dense network of open spaces and community uses to
support the local population, the Capital District will host an Olympic
calibre 65,000 seat National Stadium as well as various sports
venues and conference facilities. New universities and research
facilities will position the city as a hub for education and research.
The new city will also be a leader in environmental sustainability,
with requirements for the use of highly energy efficient building
structures, district cooling systems, water sensitive landscaping
and irrigation and an overall urban design plan that promotes
connectivity and walkability.
Masterplan
Process
15
 While Plan Abu Dhabi 2030 provides the overall context for the project, a
number of efforts shaped the principles and design of the Capital District and
served as the foundation for the Capital District Masterplan.
November 2007
16
Capital District Concept Plan
The Capital District Concept Plan was developed during a series of
workshops during the fall of 2007 and involved UPC staff and a
team of international experts including architects, urban planners,
urban designers transportation engineers and transportation
planners. The goal of these sessions was to brainstorm and work
towards a preferred concept plan for the Capital District based on
principles of urban livability and high quality urbanism, sustainable
transport and infrastructure, cultural vibrancy, and energy efficient
landscapes and buildings. The Final Concept Plan was approved in
2007 and provided the blueprint for the Masterplan.
March 2008
UAE Capital District Symposium
A UAE Capital District Symposium was held at the Emirates Palace
Hotel in Abu Dhabi over three days from March 30th to April 1st,
2008. The Symposium gathered key figures in the local leadership
and planning community as well as delegates and experts from
around the world, to present, discuss and frame recommendations
about issues of importance to contemporary capital cities, with
specific focus on creating a sustainable Capital District for Abu Dhabi.
A key recommendation of the Symposium was the creation of a
Capital Planning Commission to manage UAE Federal assets within
the Capital as well as assist in the planning and programming of the
symbolic, commemorative, and celebratory aspects of the Capital
District.
The Symposium was an officially-sanctioned meeting of the
Capitals Alliance, an organization consisting of the capital planning
commissions of Australia, Brazil, Canada and the United States of
America and is part of an ongoing broader program, initiated by the
Abu Dhabi leadership, to bring the most progressive urban planning
approaches and practices to the UAE.
March 2009
Final Capital District Masterplan
The Capital District Masterplan was initiated in early 2008 based on
the final Concept Plan and was developed by a consortium of inter-
disciplinary consulting teams and international experts.
The preparation of the Masterplan involved extensive consultation
with government agencies and stakeholders in all aspects of
planning and design including: the definition and refinement of land
use and development requirements; architectural, urban design and
landscape architectural strategies; the articulation of sustainability
criteria and parameters; transportation modelling and intersection
analysis; distribution of utilities and infrastructure; and the
development of safety and security guidelines.
The Capital District public transport network was also planned in
close collaboration with the Department of Transport (DoT) and in
parallel with the preparation of the Surface Transport Masterplan
(STMP), an initiative commissioned by the DoT to translate the
conceptual transport strategy outlined in Plan Abu Dhabi 2030 into a
detailed Masterplan and implementation programme.
17
This Masterplan Summary provides an overview of the background
and concept planning process, and distills the key land use, urban
design, transportation and sustainability strategies that combine
to make up the Capital District Masterplan. The documents that
collectively comprise the Capital District Masterplan include:
• Capital District
– Federal Precinct Masterplan and Development Requirements
• Capital District
– City Centre Masterplan and Development Requirements
• Capital District
– Emirati Neighbourhood Masterplan and Development
Requirements
• Capital District
– Infrastructure Masterplan (Volume I & Volume II)
• Capital District
– Transit Network Design (Volume I & Volume II)
Site
Location &
Context
19
 Arabian Gulf

Mina Zayed Saadiyat Island

Lulu Island Al Sowwah Island

Al Reem Island

20

Abu Dhabi City

Zayed Sports City

Location Mussafah
The current Abu Dhabi CBD is situated at the western tip of Abu
Dhabi Island. Plan 2030 proposes that this CBD be revitalised and
extended onto near shore islands and connected through a series
of bridges. Because of its constrained position, future development
growth on the island is restricted.

To accommodate and concentrate future growth in the region, Plan

2030 identified the former Khalifa City C site, a triangular area of
land between Abu Dhabi International Airport and Mohamed bin
Zayed City, as the second downtown for Abu Dhabi and the new
Capital District.
 Yas Island

21

Abu Dhabi International Airport

Raha Beach Al Falah

Masdar

Khalifa A

Motor World

Khalifa B

Mohamed Bin
Zayed City

Baniyas

North Wahthba
 Existing Features

Transportation Access
At approximately 45 square kilometres, the site is at the centre
of development activity on the Abu Dhabi Mainland and has the
highest accessibility in the region. Two major highways – the E20
and E22 – bound its north and west sides and intersect at its apex,
22 while highway E11 runs along its south side. The site is strategically
located to connect with the key areas of the Abu Dhabi metropolitan
area such as the Airport, Al Raha Beach, Emirates Palace, Palaces
District, CBD, Corniche District, Cultural District on Sadiyaat Island
and the new developments on the mainland: Masdar, Mohamed bin
Zayed City and Khalifa Cities A and B.

The Surface Transport Masterplan for Abu Dhabi envisions a highly

integrated transportation system comprised of improved highway
links and connections to surrounding communities; a high-speed rail
service to Abu Dhabi; some 131 KM of metro railway; regional rail
connections to nearby urban centres, including Al Ain; and a fine-
grained network of surface tram and bus service.

The Capital District will benefit from this comprehensive inter-

modal network, which will offer residents, employees and visitors
convenient and alternative methods of movement and connections
throughout the new city and to the surrounding region. And it will
encourage pedestrian activity and alleviate traffic congestion as the
city and surrounding region undergoes phased development and an
increase in population.
 23

E20

Capital District
E2
2

1
E1

Surface Transport Masterplan, Abu Dhabi Department of Transport

 Existing Features

Although the majority of the Capital District site

is vacant, there are a number of constraints and
opportunities facing development.

24 Airport
The Abu Dhabi International Airport is within five kilometres of
Capital District CBD and has impacts on building heights due to flight
patterns. The airport and highway along the northern edge are also
high volume noise sources.

Existing Land Uses

Existing land uses consist primarily of Abu Dhabi University, a
cemetery and military complex along the western edge of the site.

Subsurface Conditions
Subsurface conditions on the site are characterized by a high water
table and high soil salinity. Through evaporation of ground water
this condition can result in underground cavities.

Utility Infrastructure
A number of utility corridors exist along the west edge of the site,
including high voltage overhead power lines and gas lines. As part of
implementation, these lines will be relocated.

Climate
Situated at the northwest-facing coastline of the Arabian Gulf, the
climate of Abu Dhabi is affected by the sea to the north and the
desert to the south. Proximity to the desert results in high solar
radiation and high daytime temperatures. During mid-summer
months, the sun is almost directly overhead for most of the
afternoon, creating a harsh outdoor environment for pedestrians.

Abu Dhabi’s location near water provides a northwestern wind

occurring from noon until late evening nearly every day. This wind
transports fresh air from the sea, purging used and polluted air out
of the city and replacing it with fresh air. It also creates a cooling
effect even though the air temperature is generally high.
 25

Capital District Site Constraints, Capital District Concept Plan

Guiding
Principles
27
 Culture
The Capital District is grounded in principles of Estidama, or sustainability,
and as such, will be a city where cultural, social, economic and
environmental systems thrive, for present and future generations. The
following core principles guided the Capital District Masterplan.

A Livable, and Modern

Arab Capital
The structure of the Capital District is based on creating a culturally
symbolic, vital, contemporary and distinct Arab urban form for this
28 new city. The plan proposes a high degree of land use mix and
diversity, with neighbourhoods linked by walkable streets and a
world-class public transport network.
A Global Capital
At the heart of the Capital District will be a Federal Precinct, which
will serve as the national seat of government for the United Arab
Emirates and be designed to celebrate the identity, culture and
values of the Emirates. Government buildings, national institutions
and embassies along grand boulevards will provide a symbolic 29
and memorable approach to the Capital District. Contemporary
Arab architecture and a strong international diplomatic presence
will reinforce the cultural diversity of the Emirates’ population.
Along primary boulevards and at gateways to the city, distinct
public spaces and commemorative places will reinforce the city’s
ceremonial and symbolic function and provide the space for the
parades, celebrations, and events that are an integral part of the life
of a global capital city.
 Social

Complete Communities
Central to the Plan for the Capital District is the commitment to create
a sense of community. The plan seeks to preserve the traditions,
heritage and way of life of Emirati’s and is flexible enough to
accommodate the needs of the Emirate’s diverse population, ensuring
30 everyone can live and work in peace and harmony.

The Capital District will provide a wide range of housing options

for all income levels. Residential neighbourhoods are designed
to accommodate the various needs and desires of Abu Dhabi’s
diverse population including Emirati extended families, -ex-patriot
households and guest workers.

Each neighbourhood will be well served by community services and

amenities, including cultural centres, youth centres, post offices,
women’s centres, libraries, and mosques. Mosques have been sited
to be within walking distance of nearby residents. Two hospitals
will provide quality healthcare to the city and support the vision of
creating a healthcare precinct.

In the Capital District, open space is a strategic planning component

that greatly contributes to quality of life. Throughout the city there
is a hierarchy of open spaces - from large commemorative places,
to civic plazas to neighbourhood parks - which will provide a focus
for national and local celebrations and be accessible to all residents
within a 5 minute walk.
31
32
33
 Economic

Diverse and Healthy Economy

A prosperous economy that benefits all citizens is a primary at-
tribute of all vital cities of the world. The plan for the Capital District
is oriented towards facilitating the growth of Abu Dhabi’s key eco-
nomic sectors including healthcare, education and tourism.
34
The Capital District will host an Olympic calibre 65,000 seat National
Stadium as well as various sports venues and conference facilities.
New universities and research facilities will position the city as a
hub for education and research.

Office zones are poised to accommodate government functions, as

well as high end office tenants and multinational corporations seek-
ing presence in the Arabian Gulf.

The strategic placement of land uses is based on maximizing their

inherent economic, as well as cultural synergies. The Capital District
CBD offers the highest concentration of office use in order to attract
commerce and trade oriented towards the global needs of the mod-
ern business world. Along the north and south transit spines, local
retail and transit-oriented development nodes provide a range of
retail and employment opportunities within close proximity to transit
and residential neighbourhoods.

High-quality
Development Opportunities
The plan is grounded in the practical and functional aspects of
creating high quality development parcels. Each city block and
parcel is designed to provide maximum value for its intended use.
The block and parcel dimensions are the result of an in-depth
study of comparable cities and best practices of modern high
rise development around the world. With the intention of rapid
development it is important that the land parcels be as efficient and
flexible to accommodate the evolution of development requirements
over time.

To maximize development value, the majority of parking in the

Capital District will be provided in underground parking garages up
to four levels. In addition to underground parking, district parking
facilities are located to serve the total parking needs of visitors and
working population.

Streets in the Capital District have been designed to make the

most efficient use of space within the right-of-way. Select
utilities have been placed beneath the roadway, and buildings and
shading devices will provide maximum street enclosure to create a
comfortable, human-scaled streetscape.
 35

Height/Density Strategy

121-150 meters

91-120 meters

71-90 meters

51-70 meters

31-50 meters

15-30 meters

<14 meters
 Environment

A Connected Capital
As the City of Abu Dhabi plans for regional mobility into the 21st
century it is important that this emerging capital district is based on
strategic integration of land uses that balance development densities
with transportation access. The Masterplan has identified a model
36 split goal of 40% of the trip generation to be accommodated by
public transportation by 2030 through the implementation of an
extensive network of regional rail, metro rail, street trams and feeder
bus systems.

The distribution of land uses and densities in the Capital District

is based on Transit Oriented Development (TOD) model that
concentrates a mix of transit supported land uses and development
densities strategically at transit station locations. This will provide
employment opportunities within walkable and relatively short
commute distances of residential areas.

Pedestrian Accessibility
With the predominance of the automobile as the only means of
transportation in Abu Dhabi today, the Masterplan promotes a
strong pedestrian bias. The development of the proposed transit
network will generate more pedestrians on the street in the Capital
District. However, it is important that there is an inviting pedestrian
oriented network from transit stations to final destinations to ensure
adequate ridership of the transit system. The design of the Capital
District encourages walking as preferred means of transportation by
providing seamless pedestrian accessibility and inviting streetscapes.
Dedicated bike routes will be integrated into the streetscape and offer
opportunities for safe and convenient travel across the city.

A Sustainable Capital
Abu Dhabi’s desert and coastal climate poses some significant
challenges to maintaining human comfort in outside urban
environments.

The Plan seeks to mitigate the negative impacts of thermal heat gain
through comprehensive systems of shade and ventilation throughout
the urban environment. The fundamental planning principles guiding
the geometry of the plan seek to naturally ventilate the city by
having roadways, block orientation, landscape and building form
being oriented towards the prevailing winds.

Shading devices such as arcades, trellis and landscaped canopies

are thought of as a complex network of places that allow pedestrian
movement, solar protection and refuge from the harsh climatic
conditions of Abu Dhabi.

Sustainable practices towards conservation of energy and water

are a key stone of the Plan. The plan optimises building energy use
and water consumption through the application of “green building”
practices as defined by the government’s Estidama Program.
Recycling centres will be located within the ground floor of public
parking facilities and encourage individuals and households to recycle.

Fresh water is a precious resource in the Emirates. The plan offers the
best practices for the future through the integration of design strategies
and guidelines to ensure that open spaces are designed and managed to
reflect the desert environment of Abu Dhabi and to conserve our scarce
water resources.
 37

Throughout the planning process, design scenarios were

tested in order to understand the implications from a wind
and cooling standpoint. Based on the results from this
modelling and additional scientific research, strategies were
developed to guide decision-making with regard to the
orientation of streets and the positioning and dimensioning
of buildings in order to best take advantage of the wind.
Urban
Design
Layers
39
 Urban Design Layers
The Masterplan can be broken down into a series of strategic layers that
form the basic urban design framework for the Capital District.

Radial Streets

The city structure links national government, city life and Emirati
culture through creation of distinct districts and national institu-
tions connected by grand boulevards, walkable streets, monumental
spaces and a world class public transit system.
40
At the city’s centre, a radial pattern of streets surrounds a central
monumental space. This radial pattern of streets is the primary
framework for identity and place making and provides the structure
for neighbourhoods and connectivity within the District.

Grand Boulevards and

Institutions
A series of seven, tree-lined grand boulevards, representing the
seven emirates, connect the symbolic centre with surrounding
districts, large civic institutions, and regional access routes. The
monumental Capital Boulevard provides a beautiful and dramatic
connection between the Presidential Palace and the Grand Mosque
on Abu Dhabi Island.

Precinct Identity
The Plan strives to create a coherent sense of place that provides
precinct and neighbourhood identity through land use mix, PALACE
PRECINCT
block structure, streetscape design, architectural expression,
district amenities, vibrant civic spaces and landscape expression. SPORTS HUB
North
Spine
Within each of the Plan’s six precincts are several smaller and PRECINCT
District

CITY
neighbourhoods formed around retail and transit streets, community FEDERAL Central CENTRE
PRECINCT Business
facilities, schools and local parks. District PRECINCT

Souk Federal
District Mosque EMIRATI
District NEIGHBOURHOOD

SOUTH SPINE
PRECINCT
 Transit
The location of the public transport network has significant impacts
on land use, density, pedestrian access and overall district character,
and was a fundamental urban design device in the Masterplan.

41
Regional Rail
The regional rail will connect the Capital District with Al Ain, Dubai,
the Airport and downtown Abu Dhabi. A multi- modal transporta-
tion hub will provide a world-class interchange for metro, fast train,
trams, buses and taxis and be a focal point for high density retail
and office development in the CBD.

Regional rail alignment.

Metro
Metro stations will be conveniently located within walking distance
of the highest density areas in order to serve the largest population
and reduce reliance on driving. Transit-oriented development at each
station will provide a range of housing, shopping, employment and
community services.

Metro / subway alignment.

Trams
An extensive and interconnected network of trams throughout the
majority of the city will ensure that no resident is less than a five
minute walk from transit.

Tram alignment.
Land Use
Strategies
43
 Land Use Summary

The designation of land uses in the Capital District is supportive of

creating high-quality, mixed-use and transit-oriented urban districts
and neighbourhoods. Of the total site area there is approximately 26
million square metres of developable land area with approximately 33
million square metres of building gross floor area (GFA). Total open
space accounts for 178 195 hectares, or approximately 6% of the
44 total developed area of the Capital District. About 15 million square
metres make up the city’s roadway network which includes areas
dedicated to pedestrian and bicyles, desert landscaping, and public
transportations systems such as surface tram line and bus routes.

Residential uses account for almost 60 percent of building GFA

within the Capital District and occupy the greatest land area. The
highest density residential areas are located in the CBD, with more
medium density neighbourhoods located along the North and South
Spine. Lower residential densities are located in the Mosque District
as well as west of the CBD. While residential areas in the CBD are,
for the most part, mixed with office uses, residential uses along
the North Spine, South Spine and the Mosque District have a strong
neighborhood presence and will benefit from close access to tram-
serving retail streets and metro stations. Lower density residential
uses surround the City Centre Precinct and offer a range of housing
options for nationals and expatriate households. These areas are also
well served by schools, community facilities and commercial centres.

Office uses account for the second largest percentage of building GFA
(12%). The majority of general office use is in the CBD, which has
over 80% of the overall general office space in the Capital District.
A lower density office zone surrounds the central ceremonial space
where upper floors of buildings will house professional services or
residential uses and lower floors will host a variety of specialized
office spaces relating to cultural activities and civic organizations.
The remaining general office space is located at TOD nodes along the
north and south transit spines, and in small amounts within the Sports
Hub and mixed-use buildings within the Federal Precinct.

Hotel, Government Office and Healthcare have the third largest

amount of building GFA and are concentrated in specific areas, or as
in the case of hotels, located on a few parcels with taller buildings.
Hotels throughout the City Centre, Sports Hub, and North and South
Spines, and at entries into the Federal Precinct will serve commercial,
business and healthcare uses in addition to supporting tourism. At
full build-out, a total of approximately 4,600 hotel rooms and 2,030
serviced apartments will be available.

Within the Federal Precinct, federal government office uses are

concentrated in a single area at the northwest edge of the CBD
and extend towards the centre of the city. Major embassies
and significant national institutions are located along the Capital
Boulevard, providing a visible and prestigious address for these
buildings. A mix of housing, for diplomats and private residences,
along with other major and minor embassies and government offices
are located on either side of the Capital Boulevard. Opposite the
Federal Precinct, at the edge of the CBD Federal Mosque District, is
a concentration of lower rise office buildings that will house Abu
Dhabi government departments and agencies and serve city centre
businesses and nearby residential communities.

A variety of retail strategies are utilized throughout the Plan to support

a vibrant street environment and provide residents and visitors with
the high quality services they need. Retail venues such as a regional
mall, the multi-modal transportation hub, and high end retail locations
in the CBD and Souk Market, will showcase the city’s retail diversity
and excellence. Transit-oriented mixed-use retail streets along the
north spine, within the Federal Precinct, the Mosque District, and the
Emirati Neighbourhood, will serve people living and working nearby.

Safety and security facilities will service neighbouring areas with

appropriate emergency services. In addition, utility facilities
necessary for appropriate city function and service stations for those
driving in an out of the City Centre will be integrated into the city’s
urban character.
 Mixed Use Medium-Density Res (R3) Tram
Embassy / Diplomatic Area Hotel / Resort Civic / Institutional Cultural / Community Utilities Landmark (Tall)
(within other land use) (20 - 60 units / hectare)

High-Density Res (R6) Medium-Density Res (R2) Metro

General Office Undeveloped Open Space Religious Safety / Security Service Station Landmark
(301 + units / hectare) (5 - 20 units / hectare)

High-Density Res (R5) Low-Density Res (R1) Government Office High Speed Rail
Open Space / Recreation School Transportation Parking
(151 - 300 units / hectare) (3 - 5 units / hectare)

High-Density Res (R4) Bus Route

Palace Retail Sports / Entertainment Center Healthcare Conference Center
(60 - 150 units / hectare)

45

The Land Use Plan represents the recommended

designations for use and pattern of future Gross Land Cultural / Open Residential Daytime
development in the Capital District. The plan Precinct Area
Residential Office Retail Institutional
Community
Mosques Schools
Space
Total GFA
Population Population
will direct the provision of public infrastructure
and guide all future land use and development
decisions. The table at right provides the Ha GFA, m2 GFA, m2 GFA, m2 GFA, m2 GFA, m2 GFA, m2 GFA, m2 Ha GFA, m2
population and land use designations by Precinct.
City Centre Precinct
CBD & Souk District 243 3,399,121 1,808147 323,162 101,574 21,369 28,810 64,838 17 5,682,183 67,982 179,994
North Spine District 713 6,036,152 377,113 128,000 117,851 60,188 61,342 868,339 49 6,780,646 120,651 246,623
Mosque District 176 733,281 169,016 16,000 69,659 11,064 55,011 196,428 19 1,054,031 14,666 40,595
Federal Precinct 310 628,746 1,604,457 30,521 253,784 45,692 21,755 77,576 33 2,584,955 12,575 77,072
Sports Hub Precinct 140 381,539 - 15,000 - 8,400 23,465 23,610 19 428,404 7,592 21,991
Emirati Neighbourhood* 1,865 5,026,478 - 57,872 - 40,418 221,776 508,800 36 5,346,544 69,728 115,677
South Spine Precinct 982 3,785,300 221,530 64,286 - 92,000 87,100 136,500 22 4,250,216 74,059 131,698
* includes Palace Precinct TOTALS 4,429 19,990,617 4,180,263 634,841 542,868 279,131 499,259 1,876,091 195 26,126,979 367,253 813,650
 FAR/Density

The Masterplan promotes a mix of densities across the city

appropriate to the location and mix of uses, transit access and
district character. Maximizing density and population can help
create successful places that can support local business, services
and facilities. In line with the strategy for building heights (facing
page), the floor to area ratio (FAR) is greater towards the centre of
46
the city, with the greatest density occurring above and around the
transportation hub and around the inner ring of the CBD.

Along the north and south spines, the highest densities are within
a 300m radius of each metro station. In between these mixed-use
TODs and along the spine edges, densities decrease to accommodate
a more mid-rise apartments and courtyard buildings.

Lower density residential neighbourhoods are located along the

edges of the city, within the Federal Precinct, adjacent to the north
and south spines and between the CBD and Emirati Neighbourhood.
In these neighbourhoods, a variety of housing forms, from row
housing, to apartments to single family villas provide housing
options for a variety of household sizes and types.

0m 200m 400m 1km

DENSITY / FAR
0-2.0
2.1 - 4.0
4.1 - 6.0
6.1 - 8.0
8.1 - 10.0
10.1 - 14 .0
 Building Heights

Proposed building heights relate to a variety of urban design, land

use, transportation and environmental considerations. The highest
buildings are strategically located along view corridors, adjacent to
civic and open spaces, at significant entry points into the CBD and
at transit hubs. The inner ring boulevard in the CBD will have the
tallest buildings. Predominantly office towers these buildings will
47
define the image of the city and form gateways to the two spines
and other important arterial boulevards. They will stand in contrast
to the lower rise Souk District in the city centre and surrounding
residential neighbourhoods in outer rings.

Building heights are calibrated to the location of transit service

and a high degree of land use mix. On the North and South Spines,
building heights increase at each of the metro stations, while
between metro stations and along the edges of the spine building
heights decrease. This height strategy support the creation of high
density nodes at transit hubs, while also allows cool breezes to be
channelled through tall buildings to lower density neighbourhoods
beyond.

0m 200m 400m 1km

BUILDING HEIGHTS
<15 m
16 - 30m
31 - 50m
51 - 70m
71 - 90m
91 - 120m
121 - 150m
 Movement & Connections

A world-class transportation system will connect

neighbourhoods within the Capital District and connect
the district to the wider region. The system will include
high-speed rail, metro rail, a surface network of trams
and buses, and a fine-grain interconnected network of
48
streets and sidewalks.

Streets
The Masterplan for the Capital District continues and extends Abu
Dhabi’s traditional urban grid with an interconnected street system
designed to encourage walking, especially for short distances.
Streets are classified according to a hierarchy of arterial, collector
and local streets. This hierarchy was established through careful
modelling of predicted vehicular traffic volumes combined with a
desire to achieve a high quality streetscape environment and provide
comfortable micro-climates at the street level.

The generous widths of the Entry and Radial Boulevards (70 – 75m)
allow for vehicular traffic to be accompanied by a surface tram line
network, providing various modes of transport to a variety of land
uses. The Central Boulevard (62m) in the North and South Spines
carries significant traffic volumes from the east into the CBD. This
key arterial will also house the underground metro system and
the relating surface metro stops and will provide the opportunity
for transit-oriented development. On either side of the Central
Boulevard, tram streets provide surface transit within a high-quality
pedestrian environment. On the outer edges of the spines, are major
collector routes (41 – 48m) that will efficiently move traffic in
and out of the city. In contrast to the main boulevards, local streets
(16 – 33m) connect short distances between residential, office,
religious and other community activities within a district. These
streets create more pedestrian scale spaces within neighbourhoods,
while allowing for local vehicular traffic movement. Rear alleys
(6.5m) provide for flexible building service access, and maintain
street fronts free of undesirable activities.

To provide efficient links between the Capital District and the

surrounding region, a number of highway access improvements
are proposed. This includes: upgrading existing interchanges to a
more “urban” standard, proposing six new access points to the City,
including a direct ceremonial connection to the Federal Precinct at
its apex, and providing new overpasses to Khalifa A to the north and
Mohamad Bin Zayed City to the west.
 49

STREET HEIRARCHY

Major Arterial - Entry Boulevards

Major Arterial - Radial Boulevards

Major Arterial - Central Boulevards

Collector

Collector - Capital Boulevard

Local Street

Pedestrian Only
Minor Street
Service Alley

0m 200m 400m 1km

 Movement & Connections

Transit
As part of the Abu Dhabi Surface Transport Masterplan, the Masterp-
lan for Capital District proposes a highly integrated public transporta-
tion network that will provide high capacity, high frequency service
to the majority of the region. This network will cover the Capital
50 District with the aim that a substantial proportion of the population,
and all key destinations, are within a 5 minute walk (or 300 metres)
of public transport.

The modes of public transport that will operate within the Capital
District include:

• A high-speed regional rail connecting Dubai, Abu Dhabi International

Airport, Capital District, Downtown Abu Dhabi and Al Ain.
• A metro system providing high capacity, high frequency service
along the north and south spines, and through the Federal
Precinct. A total of 10 metro stations are proposed and provide a
focus for high density, mixed use development in order to serve
the largest population and reduce reliance on driving.
• A comprehensive network of tram and bus routes with
interchanges provided at most metro stations.
• A major multi-modal interchange at the centre of the city will
serve metro, fast train, trams, buses and taxis and house high
density retail and office development.
• Park and ride facilities will be integrated with transportation
interchanges and located just outside the city to serve regional
commuter traffic and reduce traffic congestion within the city.

0m 200m 400m 1km

TRANSIT PLAN
Metro Metro Stop
High Speed Train Transit Hub
Tram Park and Ride
Major Bus Route
Walking and Cycling
One of the key aspirations of Plan Abu 2030 and of the Capital
District Masterplan is to create vibrant urban places that both wel-
come and encourage pedestrian activity. This is achieved through
the provision of high-quality streetscapes, a diverse mix of uses
and concentration of densities, and an emphasis on an integrated 51
public transport network, which supports the idea that every transit
passenger is also a pedestrian. The Masterplan addressed three
primary challenges in creating a comprehensive pedestrian network:
1) providing an attractive and accessible pedestrian environment by
keeping blocks small, providing generous and shaded sidewalks and
providing frequent crossing points; 2) controlling the climate through
the creation of arcade zones, street and building orientation; and 3)
carefully distributing the mix and concentration of uses to support
vibrant, livable neighbourhoods.

The creation of a walkable Capital is also extended to the defini-

tion of an integrated bike network, which provides dedicated routes
throughout the city. On the widest and busiest vehicular streets,
these paths are separated from vehicular traffic, and given dedicated
space within the sidewalk realm. On more local, narrower streets,
it is envisioned that bikes will share the road space, through the
provision of clear pavement markings that delineate bike zones from
vehicular zones.

0m 200m 400m 1km

TRANSIT PLAN
WALKING AND CYCLING
Metro
5 minute walking distance from transit Metro Stop
High Speed Train Transit Hub
Tram Park and Ride
Major
TramBus
StopRoute Metro Stop Dedicated Bike Route
 Open Space

The Capital District has been designed to maximise

opportunities for residents to enjoy a high-quality public
realm through a linked system of open spaces. Throughout
the Capital District there is a hierarchy of public spaces that
are located within easy access to all residents.
52
An integrated planning approach incorporates these various open
space types collectively to define an interconnected network of
open space that includes the pedestrian zones in rights-of-way,
public transportation and bicycle corridors, public parks, plazas,
recreation areas, and private open space. The urban street is an
important open space corridor and streetscape designs respond
to the adjacent land use, scale of building and intended district
character. This significant open space network will enhance the
overall character and identity of the Capital District by providing
great spaces for commemoration, celebration and the activities of
civic life.

Open Space Typology

All the open spaces are categorized into specific typologies based
on the size of the parcel, scale and intended character of the
space. These typologies include: ceremonial open spaces, district or
recreational parks, neighbourhood parks, civic plazas, linear parks and
pedestrian spaces in relation to street right-of-ways.

Open Space Distribution

The distribution of open space in the city is based on balancing
open standards with overall land densities and neighbourhood
populations. The Capital District aims to provide approximately 1
hectare of open space for every 1,000 people which is a substantial
amenity in a dense urban environment and significantly greater than
many world class cities.

Sustainable Landscapes
The design of landscapes and open spaces in the Capital District will
respond to the desert environment of Abu Dhabi, and will respect
local ecological conditions and scarcity of fresh water. Conservation
of water is a primary concern and is reflected in the urban design
in coordination with the proposed water and irrigation network and
water management zones. All open spaces are classified as low,
medium or high water use areas, with specific horticultural goals
and guidelines associated with each.
 53

0m 200m 400m 1km

OPEN SPACE
Ceremonial
Civic Plaza
Linear
Recreation
Neighbourhood
Public Reserve
 Landmarks, Institutions &
Commemorative Sites

Due to their location and urban design significance,

certain parcels throughout the Capital District are
designated as landmark buildings and commemorative
sites. These sites will express and embrace the identity,
history, achievements and culture of the Emirates
54
through exemplary architectural, public realm, and
landscape architectural design.

Landmark Buildings
Landmark buildings will emphasize the skyline at important radial
axes and are opportunities for extraordinary architectural design
solutions. Landmark buildings within the CBD are required to be 150
metres in height. Landmark buildings along the transit spine are to
be 110 metres in height.

Commemorative Sites
Seven central axes lead into the CBD, symbolically represent-
ing the seven Emirates. A series of monumental sites and national
institutions will reinforce the ceremonial character of these central
boulevards which either terminate or create view corridors into the
central monumental elliptical park. Another strong visual connec-
tion is along the Capital Boulevard in the Federal Precinct, across
the National Square and central oval, to the Federal Mosque. This
visual connection is reinforced by large rectilinear ceremonial parks
and landmark buildings. In addition, important monuments at key
intersections form important gateways supported by the buildings’
unique character, elaborate landscape elements, signage and public
art. Smaller monuments become points of interest in smaller civic
plazas and neighbourhood parks.

Institutional Sites
Institutional and civic facilities have been located at key locations
throughout the city. The Federal Precinct has the highest
concentration of institutional sites with a total of 30 sites being
reserved for the most prominent national and civic institutions, such
as museums, galleries, and centres. The majority of these sites face
onto the Capital Boulevard, extending the federal government focus of
the ministries zone. In the City Centre there are 14 Institutional / Civic
sites with a total of approximately 347,000 square metres of facility
space. Institutional and civic institutions serve as part of a gateway at
the eastern end of the North Spine as well as key places of interest at
entry points to the CBD and other North Spine neighbourhoods.

These institutional and civic facilities will be composed of public

uses that are either publicly owned or operated by nonprofit
organisations. Examples include local museums, central post office
facilities, main libraries and civic uses that provide educational,
cultural, recreational and other similar public services.
 55

0m 200m 400m 1km

LANDMARKS, MONUMENTS AND COMMEMORATIVE SITES

Tall Landmark Buildings Major Entry / Gateway
Landmark Buildings Secondary Entry / Gateway
Small Monuments Primary Ceremonial Route
Large Monuments Visual Connection
 Community Facilities

The provision of accessible, high-quality community

services and facilities is essential to the future of
any sustainable development and to the creation of
successful communities.
56 Based on local and international best practices, a range of community
facilities have been proposed within mixed use blocks within the
Capital District. Identified as community and cultural centres within
the plan, these centres will have a variety of community services
uses, including mosques, play grounds, health care centres, post
offices, recreational facilities, and women’s centres.

A range of school sites and sizes have been provided throughout the
city, with the largest sites being along the north and south spine and
within the Emirati Neighbourhood.

In addition to underground parking on every building site, district

parking facilities are located in above ground garages and below a
number of public parks to serve the total parking needs of visitors
and working population. Recycling centres will be located within
the ground floor of public garages and encourage individuals and
households to recycle.

Service stations are distributed throughout the city and located close
to regional routes to allow for easy access.
 57

0m 200m 400m 1km

COMMUNITY FACILITIES
Schools Petrol Stations
Mosques Major Sports / Recreation
Hospitals Public Parking & Recycling Centre
Civil Defence / Police Public Underground Parking
Community / Cultural Centres
Precinct
Summaries
59
 SPORTS HUB
PRECINCT
60

CITY
FEDERAL Central CENTRE
PRECINCT Business
District PRECINCT

Souk Federal
District Mosque
District

SOUTH SPINE
PRECINCT
 PALACE
PRECINCT

North
Spine
District 61

EMIRATI
NEIGHBOURHOOD

The success of the Capital District relies on the creation of

distinct and identifiable and neighbourhoods and places.
The Masterplan has identified six major precincts, each of
which are distinguished by unique characteristics such as
land use distribution, density, built form, location to transit
infrastructure, and open space. Within each of these
precincts are several smaller districts, or neighbourhoods,
formed around retail and transit streets, community
facilities, schools and local parks.

1. Federal Precinct
2. City Centre Precinct
Central Business District
Souk District
North Spine District
Federal Mosque District
3. Emirati Neighbourhood
4. Sports Hub Precinct*
5. South Spine Precinct*
6. Palace Precinct*

* Currently under design development

 Federal Precinct

The Federal Precinct is located at the northwestern apex

of the Capital District and will serve as the national seat of
government for the United Arab Emirates. The plan for the
Federal Precinct supports the goal of making the Capital
District a contemporary expression of an Arab City, with
62 people living, working and thriving in healthy, supportive
proximity of each other.
Precinct Structure
The structural organization of the Federal Precinct is based on the
visual and physical connection of the existing Abu Dhabi city centre
to National Square in the heart of the Capital District. The hierarchy
of land uses places the larger more significant public institutions,
such as libraries, museums, and government offices framing and
reinforcing the monumental Capital Boulevard while allowing a
fine grain mix of uses to promote viable streets that are activated
throughout the day. Smaller scale embassies, offices, associated
housing and services interface with medium density residential uses
border the Federal Precinct.

The block structure acknowledges the future role of transit by

creating direct routes from all parts of the site to the proposed
future transit stations. Transit stations are located at key points to
provide comfortable walking distances to the public institutions and
major community parks and facilities.

Blocks
The building blocks of the Precinct are combined to create a
hierarchy of building types and uses, define edges and nodes, and
provide landmarks for orientation within the greater community.
The blocks are designed to ensure a fine grain street grid in order to
allow maximum permeability throughout the neighbourhood and to
allow for linkages to surrounding neighbourhoods.

Streets
Capital Boulevard is a ceremonial route which serves as a visual
continuation from the Grand Mosque and Presidential Palace on Abu
Dhabi Island into the centre of the Capital District. From Highways E20
and E22, two Gateway Boulevards provide access to the edges of the
Federal Precinct and direct access to the Capital District radial boulevards.
There are four collector routes which lead to the central International
Park from the Gateway Boulevards and a network of local streets which
serve to disperse and distribute traffic.

Architectural Character
The overall architectural vision for the Federal Precinct is to create
a grand sense of arrival to the capital of one of the world’s most
prosperous nations. This vision will achieved through distinguishing
characteristics appropriate to each individual zone within the Precinct,
while achieving an overall cohesive image. Each zone shall reflect a
unique expression of building materials, colours, finishing techniques,
landscape features, signage, roof forms, and climatic response.

The distinguishing elements are intended to reinforce the varying

experiences of the place at a pedestrian scale, and respect the specific
use and function of buildings and spaces. A cohesive architectural
character will be achieved in elements such as horizontal roof forms,
deep set windows and shade devices, a muted, desert colour palette,
sturdy and durable materials, and elegant facade massing to express a
dignified image for the Capital.

Safety and Security

All government buildings, streets, and public spaces throughout the
Federal Precinct will be carefully designed to incorporate security
measures and best practices into their plans to preserve and protect
Federal government assets and ensure the safety and well-being of
all residents and visitors.
63
 Federal Precinct

Character Zones
The Federal Precinct is divided into four character
zones, distinguished by their unique use, built form,
character, and function within the Precinct.
64
Ministries Zone
This zone is located at the eastern end of the Federal Precinct
and integrated into the surrounding Capital District CBD. In
the planning of this district the challenge was to create a
high-quality urban environment with pedestrian-oriented
streets and plazas, within a government office district. The
zone is comprised of urban blocks of stately courtyard
buildings ranging from 4 to 7 storeys with taller architectural
expressions permitted at corner sites, marking major streets.
A proportion of government buildings are allowed street
fronting retail uses in order to provide services and amenities
for employees and visitors.

International Park is located in the centre of the Ministries

zone to provide a community open space focus which can
be shared by residents, visitors, shoppers, and workers. As
part of the overall Capital Boulevard, this space will also host
ceremonial events, and two smaller institutional pavilions
could become venues for celebrating local, national and
international cultures.

Institution Zone
Located in the western area of the Federal Precinct, the
Institutional Zone frames either side of the Capital Boulevard.
Architecturally, building design and character will be bold, with
particular focus given to distinct roof forms, and subtle wall
articulation to achieve larger scaled massing and variety in
elevation. Generous ‘green’ edges along Capital Boulevard, will
reinforcing a dignified and stately entry into the Capital District.

Diplomatic Zone
The diplomatic zone consists primarily of embassies and a
variety of residential types with two small local shopping
nodes, together with schools, cultural/civic buildings,
and utility plots. A variety of embassy sites mixed with
residential plots will create a finer grain character to the
neighbourhood. Two large local parks in the heart of the
two diplomatic housing and embassy neighbourhoods will
serve the diplomatic residents and workers. The Diplomatic
Zone is connected via a regular grid of local roads of varying
widths which link into a two-way sub-arterial that runs
the perimeter of the neighbourhood and connects the two
Gateway Boulevards. Within the Ministries Zone the street
blocks are delineated by narrower pedestrian friendly local
streets that integrate into the CBD block pattern.

High Streets
Mixed-Use (Commercial/Residential) land uses are
concentrated along tram streets leading from the north and
south to the centre of the Precinct and will form a vibrant
commercial gateway to the area. Two smaller neighbourhood
mixed-use zones in the Diplomatic Zone will service the
residents and workers of the diplomatic neighbourhoods.
The overall focus is on creating mixed-use shopping streets
for the neighbourhoods with retail uses on the ground floor
and residential and office above. Retail uses on the ground
floor will stimulate pedestrian flow and street activity. Major
landmark uses such as hotels and office centres, and higher
density housing, are to be located at the gateway Entry
Boulevards in order to provide activity anchors for streets.
 65

Ministries Zone

Institutions Zone

Diplomatic Zone

High Streets

High Density Areas

 Federal Precinct

Open Space
A well defined public realm in the Federal Precinct
provides a diversity of opportunities for expressing
local and national heritage and identity and for the
66 programming of events, celebrations, monuments and
commemorative spaces that reflect the unique history of
the UAE.

Major Commemorative Spaces

Three major public spaces will provide ceremonial and symbolic
anchors for the Federal Precinct: National Square, located within the
monumental central oval space, International Park located between
the Ministries Zone and the Institutions Zone, and Monument Park,
located at the apex of the Federal Precinct.

Capital Boulevard
Connecting the Major Commemorative spaces is Capital Boulevard, a
major formal and ceremonial axis through the centre of the Federal
precinct, which provides a significant visual axis into the centre of
the city, and beyond, to the National Mosque. At the eastern end
of the Capital Boulevard, the grounds of a major civic / institutional
building will serve as a National Square for the Capital City of the
United Arab Emirates.

Neighbourhood Parks
Two large neighbourhood parks in the Diplomatic Zone provide
passive and active spaces for residents and visitors to the area.

Local Parks and Plazas

Throughout the Precinct are smaller gathering spaces consisting of
planted and paved plazas, featuring formal landscaping and tensile
shade structures.

Linear Parks
Linear parks will provide pleasant walking and cycling connecting
between districts and neighbourhoods.

Streetscapes
Throughout the Precinct, a varied palette of streetscapes designed
with generous sidewalk space, street furniture, shade and
landscaping, will invite pedestrian activity and ensure that public
spaces are activated throughout the day and evening.
 67

1c

1b

3 1a

1 Major Commemorative Spaces

a. National Square
b. International Park
c. Monument Park
2 Capital Boulevard
3 Neighbourhood Parks
4 Local Parks and Plazas
5 Linear Parks
 City Centre Precinct
The City Centre Precinct is comprised of four distinct
districts or neighbourhoods: The Central Business
District, the Souk Market District, North Spine District
and the National Mosque District.

Central Business District

The Central Business District (CBD) is at the centre of the Capital
District with high density office and residential uses combined with
a diversity of cultural and social amenities. It will be the largest
concentration of high density office, residential and commercial
68 uses outside of the Abu Dhabi Island. Land uses consist of Class
A office space providing over 150,000 jobs and residential
neighbourhoods of 3 million square metres offering a live work
environment for almost 70,000 residents.

A key organizing principle of the CBD is the close integration of

land use and transportation networks supported by high-quality
pedestrian-oriented urban design and vibrant open spaces to create
livable neighbourhood centres.

Residential developments offering a range of housing options are

clustered primarily within the south and north neighbourhoods,
and including local mosques, women and youth centres, libraries,
local retail shops and recreational facilities serve as central spaces
of gathering. These neighbourhoods are framed by office and hotel
uses located along main radial streets leading into the CBD.

The CBD offers a range of retail, cultural and entertainment

opportunities. High-end and local retail streets provide a diverse
range of shopping experiences while a large retail and entertainment
node in the eastern CBD will serve residents of the Capital District
and surrounding region.

Buildings, streets, and open spaces within the CBD are aligned to
maximize natural ventilation and the circulation of afternoon breezes
through the public realm. A series of linear open spaces provides
pedestrian connectivity through the district, with building podiums
and shade structures providing much needed shade during the
hottest parts of the day.

National institutions and landmark buildings at key entry points to

the City provide opportunities for distinctive architecture and frame
visual gateways to the CBD.
69
 City Centre Precinct
Central Business District

High Density Ring

This iconic zone of the CBD will be a showplace of important
business in the Capital District. These buildings will be the highest
and most visible buildings. In the entire Capital District. It is primarily
70 a high-end office zone with mixed-use retail as well as some
residential and hotel uses.

Regional Transit Hub

A multi-modal transportation hub will provide a world-class
interchange for metro, fast train, trams, buses and taxis and be a
focal point for high density retail and office development in the
CBD. This important regional transportation node will be the entry
point for all visitors, and residents of the Capital District and will be
designed to express the status of Abu Dhabi as a global capital city.

Regional Shopping
A large city-serving retail and entertainment node, this
neighbourhood will be important for all residents of the Capital
District and surrounding region. The neighbourhood also serves as
an important transition between the North Spine and the CBD.

Government Offices
Adjacent to the landmark Federal Mosque and open spaces of
national importance is a node of government office uses. These
buildings will house local Abu Dhabi government agencies and that
will benefit from being located within the high density CBD.

Medium and High Density Residential

Neighbourhoods
These neighbourhoods make up the majority of the CBD. Office and
hotels uses are located along main radial streets leading into the CBD
while mosques and community facilities serve as central spaces
of gathering. In general the neighbourhood will be a dense urban
residential zone with a wide variety of services easily accessible for
the pedestrian.

Cultural / Community Services

Within each residential neighbourhood are cultural and community

services, located adjacent to parks and mosques, which will provide
a variety of services for local residents. A number of compact school
sites at the edges of the CBD will serve the school-aged population
of these neighbourhoods.

CBD Height Character

The inner ring of the CBD will be the location for

some of the tallest buildings in the Capital District
and will be a showcase of important business in
the Capital District. These buildings will define the
image of the CBD and begin to form gateways to the
two spines and other important arterial boulevards.
This high density zone will stand in contrast to
the central International Souk Market and the
surrounding residential neighbourhoods.
 71

High Density Ring Local Government Offices

High Density Ring Local Government Offices
Regional Transportation Hub Medium & High Density Residential Neighbourhoods
Regional
Regional Transportation
Shopping Hub Medium & HighCultural
Density/Residential
CommunityNeighbourhoods
Uses

Regional Shopping Cultural / Community

 City Centre Precinct
Souk District

The Souk Precinct is the symbolic nucleus of the Capital

District, instantly recognizable on any map with the
National Square at its centre and radiating roadway
pattern spreading out in all directions, like spokes on a
wheel.
72
The seven Emirates are represented in the radial roads, along with
a central monumental boulevard representing the collective UAE
federation. This axial boulevard is unique in its design with extensive
parkways and string of ceremonial parks connecting the two
governmental /cultural anchors of the Capital District, the Federal
Precinct to the west and the Federal Mosque District to the east.

The urban form of this district is based on the Middle Eastern

souk, or bazaar, which is one of the classic defining features of a
traditional Islamic town.

Great Civilizations of the World

The leadership of the Emirates is seeking recognition of the great
civilizations of the world within the design of the Capital District.
The intention is to promote world peace, tolerance and acceptance
of many cultures through the creation of great public places. The
challenge is how to produce an authentic architectural image for
this concept of great civilizations that does not appear historically
overly simplified. The Souk International Market Place was identified
as one place where there could be natural synergies between the
concept of great civilizations and the design of a vibrant international
market place. A market district could be easily transformed by the
exquisite iconography of the ancient civilizations. For example, vivid
imagery from the civilizations of the Mediterranean and Middle
East could utilize art, symbolic designs and materials from the time
of the Egyptians, Mesopotamians, Greeks and Romans; or Asian,
European and South American civilizations. Through art, signage
and thoughtful translations of the historical artefacts, the history
of the world could be a lively underpinning for a modern day Souk
celebrating the international market place of today.
73
 City Centre Precinct
Souk District

Inner Oval Zone

The Souk District will house important Capital District cultural and
civic offices adjacent to the ceremonial open space and Federal
Precinct and will define the edge of the oval park. The development
74 program for this zone is comprised of stately buildings that are
home to a mix of prominent cultural institutions, non-governmental
agency offices, and other uses seeking a prestigious address. Also
interspersed amongst the office uses, there will be small boutique
hotels, restaurants, cafes, branch offices of major banks, airlines and
other places of importance to visitors.

International Souk Market Place

The Souk Market Place is imagined to be one of Abu Dhabi’s most
popular shopping venues, attracting both residents and city visitors
alike to a diverse and exciting market experience.

Recalling the traditional markets of the Middle East it will also

encourage a mixing of cultural backgrounds in a city that promotes
tolerance and acceptance. It will have a high concentration of “fine
grained” retail development with a street-front focus and be a
popular tourist destination.

Covered Market Streets

The key element of the Souk District is the network of narrow
shopping/market streets that make up the districts circulation system.

The primary shopping street in the centre of the souk district

provides over two kilometres of retail street frontage. At this scale
the souk identity is defined by a multitude of destinations and
places. Based on the geography of the land uses and road way
geometries in the CBD, the Souk International Market Place is
composed three major sub-districts.

• High-end International Boutique Market

• Tourist / Local Products Market
• International Food / Produce Market

Plaza Souk Entry Points

The tram will circumnavigate the outer edge of the Souk district. Tram
stations have been located at the large public plazas are located at
the key assess points to Souk. These plazas will civic destinations
with hotels, restaurants and shops along the perimeter with artful
landscapes, water features and shading devices establishing the
design character of the place. The intended atmosphere of the plaza
the draws inspiration from urban piazzas of Italy.

Linear Green Spaces and View Corridors

These linear parks will allow the Souk district to connect back to other
CBD neighbourhoods. They act as both green pedestrian corridors and
as visual/axis corridors into the central oval park space.
 75

Inner Oval Zone Plaza Souk Entry Points

Inner Oval Zone
International Souk Market Place Linear Green Spaces and View Corridors

International
Covered Souk
Shopping Streets Market Place
Covered Market Streets

Plaza Souk Entry Points

Linear Green Spaces and View Corridors

 City Centre Precinct
Souk District

Souk District Building Prototype Organization

This district design incorporates a variety of land uses intended to
enhance the symbolic character of the district and overall urban
vitality of the City Centre Precinct.
76
The unique urban design of the Souk District is a combination of
many factors including a specific land development approach.
In the Souk Market Place a multi-block development strategy is
recommended for creating a parking structure under multiple blocks
that serves that portion of the district. This will probably require
that multiple parcels be developed by a single entity to ensure
access and service.

The Souk District is composed of three distinct components and

corresponding building prototypes:

1) Inner Oval

2) Souk Market Place

3) Souk Outer Edge

4) Plaza Buildings

The low density and scale of the Souk District is accentuated by the
high density tall buildings of the inner ring boulevard.

The podiums of these high density buildings area required to be 3-4

floors high to create a consistent perimeter street wall defining Souk
Market District.

Section Diagram from Inner Oval to Landmark Buildings Sites

Inner Inner Oval Pedestrian Street Tram Plaza Landmark

Oval Buildings Buildings Buildings Inner Ring Boulevard Buildings
5 to 7 storeys 3 to 4 storeys 7 to 8 storeys
3-4 floor
Podium
Height
Tram Lobbies & Retail

Continuous Below Grade Parking & Service Deck Souk Retail Section Through Souk District (A)
 (A)

77

Pedestrian Street Buildings

Tram Plaza Buildings

Inner Oval Buildings

Ring Boulevard Buildings

Building Prototype Principal Zones

1 Inner Oval Buildings
• 5 to 7 storeys
• Building facades create an urban
wall at the central ceremonial space.
• Defines street wall.
2 Souk Market Place
Pedestrian Street Buildings
• 3 to 4 storeys
• Located within the Souk on
pedestrian retail street.
• Defines pedestrian retail zone.
Shading device required.
3 Souk Outer Edge Ring
Boulevard Buildings
• 5 to 7 storeys
• Plots located on outer ring road of
the Souk.
• Defines the street wall.
4 Souk Plaza Buildings
• 7 to 8 storeys
• Plots located next to transit piazzas.
• Height serves as way-finding device
in Souk. Unique identity to exterior
envelope including a tower element
within the plaza.
 City Centre Precinct
North Spine District
PALACE PRECINCT

The design of the North Spine focuses on creating a

critical mass of mixed-use development and a highly
pedestrian-oriented street environment at each transit
node in order to build high transit ridership and create
unique district identity. Supporting this primary focus
78
are major civic facilities, retail-mixed use nodes at
tram stations, and a diverse mix of housing types,
which combine to create a series of attractive urban
neighbourhoods along the northern length of the city.

Transit Oriented Development

A central concept behind the design of the North Spine is the
creation of transit-oriented development (TOD) nodes at each metro
station. Transit oriented development is a place that, by design,
encourages transit use through a dense concentration and mix of
land uses, pedestrian-oriented streets, high-quality urban design, all
supported by high capacity and frequent transit service. Clusters of
high- and mid-rise office, hotel and residential buildings will anchor
each metro station. These locations will feature the highest density
development along the spine, and offer opportunities for landmark
buildings. Between metro stations, residential blocks, consisting of a
variety of housing types and densities, will be within easy walking
distance of tram and metro service.

Arcade Streets
Along retail streets, and in conjunction with tram stops, buildings
will be designed with arcade zones. These arcade systems will be
the main route for pedestrians through the district and will connect
key public places within the city. The primary purpose for the
arcade zones is to provide pedestrian comfort. This zone will create
a shaded environment to encourage on-street activity at all times
of the day. This shaded zone will also protect the ground floor of
buildings from the highest density areas are located adjacent to
metro station and retail streets..

Arcade Streets
 79

North Spine General Height Character

 City Centre Precinct
North Spine District
PALACE PRECINCT

Retail Streets
At each metro station will be a transit-oriented development node.
Coinciding with each of these nodes will be an intimate retail street
that provides a link between each neighbourhood. This retail street
80 will be lined with neighbourhood retail and services and have a
high-quality pedestrian environment consisting of shaded arcades,
street trees and street furnishings. Restaurants and cafes will serve
area residents, office employees and visitors, while businesses along
these streets will take advantage of the pedestrian traffic generated
by metro and tram stations.

Neighbourhood Tram Streets

Running the entire length of the spine, neighbourhood tram
streets provide pedestrian oriented, walkable, and human-scaled
streetscapes.

Central Boulevard
The Central Boulevard running the length of the north Spine will
serve as a symbolic entrance to the city. Public art, monuments,
national institutions, and mosques will provide visual diversity
and interest along this long corridor, and offer opportunities for
expressing the culture and identity of the Emirates.

Cultural / Community Services Blocks

Each neighbourhood will have a mixed-use block with several
types of cultural and community services, such as women’s
centres, libraries, youth centres, and mosques. Each of these blocks
is associated with a neighbourhood park space that will provide
passive recreation opportunities and serve as a gathering space for
local neighbourhood events. Underground parking for mosques will
be provided under the open space area.

Universities
Supporting the vision of Capital District as a centre for higher learning,
the North Spine will be home to two major universities - Zayed
University and Khalifa University for Science and Advanced Research.

Hospital Campus
A major hospital campus at the eastern end of the North Spine is
within easy access of regional transport routes and tram routes.
Occupying twelve city blocks, the campus will have a significant
mixed-use component with retail and health care related commercial
uses along ground floors, and will be designed to sensitively fit into
the surrounding residential neighbourhood context. The campus is
anchored by large open and recreational spaces, which provide a
gateway into the Capital District and will provide a significant amenity
to hospital users and neighbourhood residents.
 81

Retail
Retail Streets
Streets Universities Universities
Neighbourhood TramTram
Neighbourhood Streets
Street Conference Centre Conference Centre
Central Boulevard Hospital Campus
Central Boulevard Hospital Campus

Conference Centre

Directly adjacent to the CBD is a multipurpose

conference centre and concert hall. Hotels and
retail uses are organized to draw users through
the site from all sides via a linked pedestrian
system while spaces within and around the
venue are generously shaded to accommodate
a range of public and cultural events.
 City Centre Precinct
Federal Mosque District

The Federal Mosque District will provide a variety of low and

medium-density housing options intertwined with vibrant open
spaces and community and cultural uses. At the heart of the District,
a national mosque will preserve the nation’s Islamic identity and
local government offices will anchor a major civic open space.
82
The Federal Mosque District’s character is that of a lower scale
residential neighbourhood, especially along its central core. Low-rise
buildings complemented by large open spaces and schools create
a strong community environment. The Federal Mosque District is
surrounded by the CBD, the North Spine, the Emirati neighbourhood
(a low density residential zone) and the South Spine (with similar
uses as the North Spine). Streets along the Mosque District connect
to these adjacent neighbourhoods making it a convenient place of
residence.
83
 City Centre Precinct
Federal Mosque District

A Distinct Residential Neighbourhood

The Federal Mosque District acts as a buffer between the high
density CBD and the low density zone to the south east, the Emirati
neighbourhood. A range of housing types and arrangements, from
84 single family villas, to town homes and row-houses, to courtyard
apartment buildings provide housing options for residents and con-
tribute to the area’s quiet, residential character. Villas along the Emi-
rati Neighbourhood serve as a buffer between the higher density
areas of the Mosque District and the Emirati neighbourhood.

A diversity of public open spaces, streetscapes and private open

spaces add to the Mosque District’s neighbourhood feel.

Along the central collector street are a series of neighbourhood retail

centres, which coincide with tram station locations.

Civic and Institutional Spaces

One of the defining elements of this district is the large formal open
space at its centre. This space is important to the overall form of the
Capital District, and relates to a prominent visual axis between the
Federal Mosque, the National Oval and the Federal Precinct.

A large institutional facility is located opposite to the Federal Mosque

and becomes the focal terminus of this grand civic space.

There are eight large school parcels in the district, located in close
proximity to neighbourhood open space and community facilities.

Local Government Office Zone

Adjacent to the landmark Federal Mosque and open spaces of

national importance is this node of Government office uses. These
buildings will house important local institutions and agencies that
will benefit from being located within the high density CBD.
 85

Civic and Institutional Spaces

Civic and Institutional Spaces
Local Government Offices

Local
Low Government
& Medium DensityOffices
Residential Neighbourhoods

Low & Medium Density Housing

 Emirati Neighbourhood

The Emirati neighbourhood is an integral element of the Capital

District that will provide a more peaceful and relaxed low-density
ambience than will exist in the largely middle and high density
districts surrounding it. The goal of the Emirati neighbourhood is to
create a residential community for Emirati national families living
in villas that reflect the current standards and aspirations of the
86
community and provide residences for some 3,000 families.

Each of the twelve individual sub-neighbourhoods is comprised of

individually owned villa plots with all the necessary support facilities and
amenities will be woven into the neighbourhood including the following:

1. Cycle 1 – 3 schools, both public and private.

2. Parks and recreational facilities
3. Neighbourhood centres with small scale retail and community
development.
4. Mosques of three different size footprints:
a. 2,000 sq m.
b. 500 sq m.
c. 200 sq m.
5. Civil defence facilities.
6. One large retail centre

The Emirati neighbourhood will create an attractive and comfortable

environment for all residents while employing state of the art
sustainable planning and landscape design principles.
87
 Emirati Neighbourhoods
88
See Emirati Neighbout hood document
Figure 13. Key Plan
Sub-Neighborhood CD 1 - Components
185 Total Neighborhood Area (hectares)
441 Total Villa Plots
142 1,115 sq m. (12,000 sq ft.)
51 2,090 sq m. (22,500 sq ft.)
247 2,785 sq m. (30,000 sq ft.)
1 4,180 sq m. (45,000 sq ft.)
1 Neighborhood Center
4.8 Total Neighborhood Center Area (hectares)
6,000 GLA Retail Development (sq m.)
3,900 GFA Community Development (sq m.)
5 Neighborhood Parks
4.4 Total Area (hectares)
1 Friday Mosque (2,000 sq m.)
5 Neighborhood Park Mosques (200 sq m.)
2 Primary School Sites
9.7 Total School Site Area (hectares)
See Section 4.0 Neighborhood Centers for detailed
information regarding the neighborhood center
parcel distribution.
Figure 14. Sub-Neighborhood CD 1 Rendered Plan
Neighbourhood Centres
At the heart of each of the sub-neighbourhoods within the Emirati
neighbourhood is a neighbourhood centre. Along with mosques and
parks, these centres will be the main focus of community activity.
Neighbourhood centres will contain multiple local services including
commercial and retail establishments, and community support
facilities such as recreation centres, day-care centres, medical
clinics and men’s and women’s health clubs.
There are two types of retail activity within the Emirati
Neighbourhood. The first consists of small scale, local shops located
within each neighbourhood centre. The amount of retail in each
neighbourhood is based upon it’s population. Examples of local retail
businesses are restaurants, barber shops, pharmacy’s and medium
size grocery or convenience stores. The second type is a lager retail
centre, centrally located in sub-neighbourhood CD 3. This retail
centre terminates the axis extending from the Capital District centre
circle and is bordered by the tram line providing adequate pedestrian
access to the centre from all of the Capital District.
CAPITAL CITY DISTRICT
A B U D H A B I, U A E
Tram Line
Athletic Field
Utility Transformers
Neighborhood Park Mosque
Neighborhood
Center Friday Mosques
Neighborhood
Park
Page 31
Villa Plots
Playgrounds
School Site, Separation
by Age Groups
Scale: 1:10,000
OKRENT ASSOCIATES Emirati Neighborhood
16
Daniel Weinbach & Partners, Ltd. Masterplan
Cultural and Community Facilities
Adjacency to the higher density districts in the Capital Districts
will allow residents of the Emirati neighbourhood to take short
trips to reach their work place, while still maintaining the relaxed
ambience in the Emirati neighbourhood. Emirati schools are also
well distributed throughout for closer proximity to maximum
neighbourhood residents.
Local neighbourhood centres will provide residents with places to
gather including spaces for mosques, retail centres, recreational
open spaces and community centres.
Mosques are distributed throughout the neighbourhoods so that
each mosque is within a maximum 5 minute walk of all residents.
The mosques can accommodate approximately two hundred
worshippers, in keeping with the populations of their service
areas. They are located adjacent to the neighbourhood parks and
neighbourhood centres, reinforcing the role of these amenities as
community gathering spaces. There are also five significantly larger
mosques intended to serve the broader public for Friday prayers,
and will be designed to accommodate up to 3,000 worshipers. They
are located in several of the larger neighbourhood centres where
users can take advantage of existing parking facilities as well as
the surrounding retail and community developments. The mosque
distribution is designed to encourage pedestrian movement through
the neighbourhood streets. In keeping with design principles found
within the Pearls Design System for New Communities, the short
walk to a mosque from any place within the neighbourhood will be
along pleasant, tree lined, pedestrian friendly streets, reducing the
necessity for car use.
 CAPITAL CITY DISTRICT
A B U D H A B I, U A E

40 m Right - of - Way Streetscape

Several collector streets in each sub-neighborhood
will provide entry points, and connect directly to the
neighborhood centers. These streets have a 40m
ROW, allowing for a staggered double row of shade
trees lining each side of the street (Figures 98 & 99).
The tree rows will ank the walkways, creating a very
well shaded pedestrian environment as illustrated to Shade Trees with Inter- Intermittent Plant-
the right. Species with wide canopies will be selected mittent Planting Below ing with Stone Mulch
for optimal shade production. With good soils,
drainage and irrigation, the streetscapes should thrive 89
and grow to maturity. The 40m ROW also contains a
bicycle lane which runs parallel to the walkway. The
two are separated by a 1m - 1.7m wide tree planting Scale: Not to Scale
strip. The bicycle lane will further support the Pearls
Design System principles by enhancing the pedestrian
connectivity, while reducing the need for vehicular
transportation throughout the Emirati neighborhood.
The other streetscape design elements are the same
as described earlier for the 30m ROW. Figure 98. 40 Meter ROW Streetscape Section

Shade Trees with Inter- Decorative Stone Mulch Intermittent Planting with
mittent Planting Below Between Trees Stone Mulch

Page 73

Scale: Not to Scale

Figure 99. 40 Meter ROW Streetscape Plan Precast Pavers in Park Lane,
Carriage Walk and Sidewalk

OKRENT ASSOCIATES Emirati Neighborhood

66
Daniel Weinbach & Partners, Ltd. Masterplan

Community Parks Connections

The intention of the Emirati neighbourhood open space plan is to
provide park facilities strategically located within walking distances
to the residents. Park spaces are connected to each other and to the
neighbourhoods by a high quality streetscape and sidewalk network
that promotes and encourages pedestrian activity.
Neighbourhood parks are carefully located throughout the Emirati
neighbourhoods at approximately the same frequency as mosques.
That is, every villa will be within a five minute walk of a public park.
The design of the parks will accommodate small gatherings, events
and a variety of recreational activities.
The Capital District will employ aggressive guidelines for water
conservation in open spaces and use only grey water for irrigating
public areas. As such, the parks will take on a non-traditional, yet
exciting new appearance. There will be a strong emphasis on shade
producing canopies, both natural and man made, and turf grass will
be minimized in all parks, in favour of more drought tolerant, climate
appropriate plant species.
The street system in the Emirati Neighbourhood is designed to allow
for efficient travel through the neighbourhood on an interconnected
system of arterials and collectors, while preserving the quality and
character of each individual sub-neighbourhood. A tram service will
be provided to connect the neighbourhood with the high density
CBD and the neighbouring Khalifa City B development.
The fine-grain network of streets are intended to promote pedestrian
connectivity and social interaction. All streets have generous
sidewalks on both sides of the street and the primary collector routes
have dedicated bicycle paths. Most importantly, all neighbourhood
streets will be lined with shade trees. Shade trees produce the most
positive impact on the landscape with an efficient use of irrigation
water. The trees will form a living canopy over the sidewalks,
providing much needed shade as well as colour, movement and
natural beauty. The result will be an inviting streetscape, encouraging
people to walk short distances in lieu of driving.
90

Next
Generation
Planning
91
 A number of influences - cultural, political,
social, environmental and aesthetic - are shaping
the Capital District’s identity. These influences
allow Emirati communities to share the
92 development of their city and the overall vision
of Plan Abu Dhabi 2030. The foresight to plan
for infrastructure ahead of time will ensure that
a difference is made to the next generation’s
individual lives.
Abu Dhabi’s Plan 2030 has established a clear vision for sustainability
as the foundation of the new Capital District development. This
commitment is a reflection of the values and ideals of the Emirati
nation. This clearly explains why the Capital District Masterplan is
based on creating culturally rich, vital, architecturally attractive and
sustainable urban form for this new Capital.

Capital District is the symbol of an inspired vision for governance and

community development. It promotes a new mind-set for building
and promoting a forward thinking global capital through four
predefined pillars: environmental, economic, social and cultural.

Abu Dhabi is a cultural icon of the Middle East region. The emirate
is a leading financial centre, a major industrial zone and home
to a truly cosmopolitan population that promotes tolerance and
acceptance. The importance of the overall quality of the Capital
District’s urban development is based on many factors. These
factors address specific community concerns and present a
multidimensional view of urbanization, acting as the model for the
new kinds of leadership that will make the next generations proud
of their Capital. The Masterplan projects a vision of a controlled
development within a harmonious society. Encompassing the vision
of a society which is diverse, culturally rich and evolving into a
continuously stable environment.

This vision will make a truly impactful difference to the future of the
next generation.
93
 Appendix
Design
94

Guidelines
World class cities, especially high density downtown
environments, demand a coordinated approach to
building design and the creation of inviting public spaces.
A number of influences – cultural, ecological, political,
social, and aesthetic – shape the built environment and
95
public realm and the proper urban design framework can
allow a variety of players to share in the development
of the city without compromising the overall vision and
character of the environment.

Urban design guidelines can assist city planners in

setting up parameters by which to review and endorse
proposed projects; they also provide a description of a
community’s expectations to developers who will play a
key role in shaping the built environment. Derived from a
thoughtful awareness of relevant market conditions and
influences, an appropriate set of design guidelines for
any site should consider the context within which the
building sits and the desired street character.

The design guidelines for the Capital District are an

important element of achieving the Masterplan vision.
The primary purpose of the guidelines is to ensure the
design intent of the Masterplan and of Plan 2030 is
carried forward to the development of individual sites
and plots.

This section includes a representative summary of

design guidelines for buildings, public open space, and
transportation taken from the individual Masterplans for
the Federal Precinct, City Centre Precinct and the Emirati
Neighbourhood. While not meant to be an exhaustive
summary, it illustrates in more detail a number
of specific design requirements and performance
parametres that will guide all future development within
the Capital District.
 Development Guidelines
Federal Precinct - Ministries Zone

Setbacks
• Setbacks, as depicted below, are build-to lines.
• Minimum setbacks are indicated on the setback plan and are
relative to the parcel property line.
96 • Setbacks have been created to maintain a prominent streetwall
and urban edge along boulevards and city streets while
maintaining recommended distances between street curb and
building face for security reasons.

Ministries zone
 Permitted Uses - Government Office/
Ministries
• Government office buildings shall be predominantly for
government office use including administrative offices,
ministerial offices, and other government-related functions. 97
• Ground-floor uses such as retail, restaurants or other offices are
permitted to provide services for government employees and
customers and to maintain the continuity urban street activity
through the Ministries Zone.
• Ground floor retail uses shall not be permitted along the Capital
Boulevard in order to maintain a street frontage with a visible
Government presence.
• Public access shall be allowed to the retail frontages only. There
shall be no internal public accessibility from the retail to the
government offices, in order to maintain secure building access.
• A Government Service Building shall be located along the North
Gateway Boulevard as shown below.

Ministries zone
 Development Guidelines
Federal Precinct - Institutions Zone

Building Entries
• Pedestrian entries are to be located to minimize a change in
grade from the sidewalk.
• Entries are to be universally accessible.
98 • The entry door may be recessed to provide a more articulated
and fine grain appearance.
• Location of entries are to comply with the Building Entries Plan
which indicates acceptable locations.
• Buildings fronting along the Capital Boulevard should have
visually prominent entries which address the Capital Boulevard.
No minor or service entries are permitted. Minor building entries,
such as service entries or employee entries, are permitted along
other streets.

Institutions zone
Parking Entries - Underground Parking
• The majority of parking is provided in underground garages.
• Underground car parks may be located anywhere within the
parcel boundaries.
• Access to, and use of, the underground parking shall be easy, 99
legible, comfortable, and secure.
• The number of access points to underground parking shall
be limited to key locations to facilitate traffic management,
wayfinding, and to minimize the visual impact of parking entries
on the streetscape.
• Car park locations shall be limited to locations indicated in the
parking entries plan.
• Within the underground parking, vertical circulation cores should
provide obvious and safe access to the street level above.
• Entries to underground car parks shall be clearly identified with
Fig. E21
appropriately scaled and discrete signage.
• Lighting within car parks must provide sufficient illumination Institutions zone
levels to ensure visibility and safety.
• Any car parks located above ground shall be sleeved with
building uses.
• Entries shall be perpendicular to the street.
• Parking entries shall be spaced 30 m minimum.
• Parking entries shall be 8 m to 12 m wide.
• High quality materials shall frame entries and wrap one metre
minimum into the portal.
• A minimum 3m setback from the property line is required for all
underground parking.

Fig. E20
Institutions zone
 Development Guidelines
Federal Precinct - Building Massing Prototypes

100

Ministries zone

Building height max. 5

stories min. 4 storeys

Building height max. 7

stories min. 5 storeys

Institutions zone
 Building
Buidling height
height max.
max. 5
5 storeys,
storeys, min. min. 4
4 storeys
storeys

Building height max. 7

Buidlingmin.
stories height max. 7
5 storeys
stories min. 5 storeys

Fig. E7

Institutions zone
101

Building height max. 5

stories min. 4 storeys

Building height max. 7

stories min. 5 storeys

Institutions zone

Building height max.

15 stories , min. 10
stories
Building height max.
7 stories , min. 4
stories

High Density Block

Diplomatic zone
 Development Guidelines
Federal Precinct - Building Edges and Articulation

Variation of Streetwall - Ministries

• The overall intent is that the various streetwalls should
demonstrate variation in how building facades address the
varying street types.
102 • The various streetwall articulations should be suited to the
mix of uses which may exist within the vertical space of each
building and block.
• There are certain common elements that should be evident
throughout and be afforded similar expression, particularly a
general stepping back of the facade at the top 1 or 2 floors
by 1.5 m minimum, responding to the base, middle and top
conditions, and generous roof overhangs.
• A predominantly 5-7 story building height should exist along the
Capital Boulevard. Other major boulevards have varying building
heights minimum 2 stories - maximum 7 stories.

Vertical Articulation Examples

Roof overhang encouraged 1.5m min. Roof overhang encouraged

1.5m min.

Top Level Setback

1-2 floors Top Level Setback
1-2 floors

Base Level Base Level

May be set back May be set back

Vertical streetwall articulation along Capital Boulevard Vertical streetwall articulation along Capital Boulevard

1.5m min. Top Level Setback

Top Level Setback 1-2 floors on buildings
+ 2 stories
1-2 floors

2 Story
Sun Protection minimum
streetwall

Building recessed at entry

Vertical streetwall articulation along Capital Boulevard depicting entries. Vertical streetwall articulation along collector and local streets.
 Building Edges - High Density Blocks
• The overall intent is to create continuous 10 - 15 story
streetwall along the Gateway Boulevard.
• Building edges should be residential, diplomatic, or office in use.
• A green planted edge for government or other office shall be 103
provided to provide a buffer of privacy and security for ground
floor office users.
• Green edges shall consist of a raised planter separating the
sidewalk or pedestrian area from the building. The width of this
planter may vary due to servicing and/or security requirements
along various street types.
• Breaks in the planting treatment shall be allowed for building
entries.
• Benches, seating, and appropriate planting shall be required in
order to create a high quality pedestrian environment.

10 Stories 7 stories 7 stories 10 Stories 7 stories 10 Stories

Interior Interior Interior

5 Courtyards 5 5 Courtyards 5 5 Courtyards 5

15 Stories 15 Stories 15 Stories

Gateway Entry Boulevard

4 FAR High Density Block - Illustrative Plan

4 FAR High Density Block - Gateway Boulevard Elevation

 Development Guidelines
City Centre Precinct - North Spine District
PALACE PRECINCT

Building Massing/Urban Design

• The Primary Mass in this diagram represents the location on a site
where the majority of the building’s mass should be located to satisfy
the urban design goals for the Precinct.
• The diagram does not seek to represent any particular building shape or
104 height but rather to show recommended mass locations.

• The street wall should be defined by buildings or their podiums. Podium

minimum height requirements are identified in the diagram. In lower
density zones the street wall will be defined by the mass of the building.
This is identified as a requirement for facades at the build-to line.
• Podiums should be continuous, especially along major ring and radial
boulevards, in order to form a strong street edge and shape the scale and
proportion of these important streets.
Key
Recommended Primary Mass*

Primary Mass
Minimum 4 floor podium required at build-to line

Minimum 3 floor podium required at build-to line

Podium
6
Required facade at the build-to line

6 &

* Heights and floor plates of building elements will vary per FAR, building prototype guidelines, and precinct height requirements.
 Streetscape Continuity
Primary Building Access
To maintain a pleasant and safe pedestrian zone along the street it is
&
 desirable to avoid service directly into the pedestrian way. • Landscaping is encouraged to enhance the pedestrian space and
&
 & give identity to the building’s street frontage.
& 

& Service
&
 Access • Secondary Use Entrances 105
 & • For secondary uses on the parcel, entrances should not compete
& 
 3
& •  with the primary building entrance character but work with it to
All building service
 entries
3 should be from service alleys when available.
& 
• When a service alley is not available, service entrances should be create a cohesive street edge.
3
clustered and avoid  major streets. • Secondary entrances should also create shelter for pedestrians.
3
 Arcades may be required when secondary entrances are located
& • Access for service areas, and for parking
3 ramps should not interfere
3   on a major street or tram stop. See Arcade Zones diagram for
&with the pedestrian way. 3
 
• Curb cuts should& be minimized on radial boulevards to maintain their more information.

& &
 symbolic identity. 
& &
• Trash collection will be handledfrom  service
&
alleys and service streets. Key
& • Primary building access should be 
located along boulevards, ring
 & 3 Allowable Service Access
 &
 roads, at tram stops and near & the corner of the block. Location
&  3
 • The primary building access location& should be used 
to enhance
& & 
 
&

the pedestrian
& way and the image of the district. Recommended Primary
 &
&
• Awnings and&other  types of shading devices should  be used
3
 3 Entrance Location
 & 
&
 &
&

to identify
& the primary entrance
 location and provide weather
  &
protection &to
 pedestrians. 
& 3 Allowable Secondary Use
 & & 
  Entrances
& & &
  
& &
 &  &
  &
3 & & 
  &
& 
& 
6 &
3  &
  3 
 & & & &
&     &
 3 

3


3 & & & & & 3 & & & & & & & & &
         3    

& & &

5

3 & & & & & & & & & & & & 3 & & &
             
3

& & & & & & & & & & & & & 3
5

             3
3
3
& & & & 3 & & & 3 3
&

& & 7 &
     3      


 & & & & & & & & & &
      3  
3 3
3   3
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3
5

& & & & 3 & & & & & & & & & & 3 & & &
           &   

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5

& & & & 3 & & & & & & & & & & & & &
                 

6: 6 &
 3 & 3 3
  3 3  3
   
3 3 3

3 &
3 

3
 Development Guidelines
City Centre Precinct - North Spine District


&
 &

&
&
 &

& Arcade Overview

 3
& 
 3 Arcade zones are located in relation to major streets, in conjunction
& 
 with retail or tram stops, and on government offices. The Arcade
3
 system will be the main route for pedestrians through the district
3

106 & 3 and aims to connect key public places in the city.
3  
& The3primary

propose for arcade zones along the ground floor is to

& provide pedestrian comfort. This zone will create a shaded pedes-

& & trian environment to encourage on-street activity at all times of
 
& & the day. This shaded zone shall also protect the ground floor of the
 
&
building from heat gain throughout the day.

 3
&  Ground floor secondary
&
uses are encouraged within the arcade zone
 &  (for example retail and lobbies).
&  to activate the space 3
 & 
& 

& &
 
& Arcade Requirements
&
 3 3
&   
 &
& & 
&

  & • Areas requiring an arcade zone must incorporate a minimum of a
& 
&  four meter setback along the street frontage. 3
 & & 
 
& & • This space&must
 be a minimum of 5 metres high.
 
& & facade of this zone is required (see Building
• Transparency in the
 &  &
  &
& Design Guidelines) to create a pleasant pedestrian environment. 
 &
 & 
& 
6 &
3  &
 3 
 & & & &
    &
3 

3

Key
3 & & & & & 3 & & & & & & & & &
         3    
Required Arcade Frontage
& & &
5

3 & & & & & & & & & & & & 3 & &
             
3

& & & & & & & & & & & & 3
5

            3
3
3
& & & 7
Height 5 - 7m

& & & & 3 & & & 3 3 &

Floor to Floor

    3       

(Transparency)
Storefront

& & &

Building Setback
& & & & & & &
   
  4 mminimum 3
3 3
3   3
 &
& & & & & & & & & & &
          
3
5

& & & & 3 & & & & & & & & & & 3 & &
           &  

3
5

& & & & 3 & & & & & & & & & & & & &
                

6 &
3 & 3 3
  3 3  3
   
3 3 3

3 &

3
 District Parking Strategy
• Parking in the precinct will be handled through a combination of
limited above grade garages and below grade parking structures.
• All residential parking will be in private below grade parking
structures within buildings. 107

&
 • Many of the streets will allow on-street parking which will
3 provide alternative parking for retail and other first floor uses.

3
&  • Parking needs in this district associated with the mosque or

3 community facilities will be handled with two below grade

3
 parking structures that will have green roof parks above.
3
 • Precinct recycling centres should be located on the ground floor
& 3
 
& of public parking garages and on the first level of underground

&
 parking structures.
 &

&

3
 &
& 
 3
& 

&
 &
&  3 3
  
&
& 
 &
& 
 3
& 

& & &
  
& &
 &  &
  &
& 
 &
& 

&

Key
&
& & & & 
    &
3 

3 On-Street Parking - Daily


On-Street Parking - Off Peak

& & & 3 & & & & & & & & &
       3    
Public Parking Garage
& &
5

& & & & & & & & & & & 3 & & &
           
3 Underground Parking

& & & & & & & & & 3

5

& &
          3  3 
3 
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  3        3


& & & & & & & &

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  3 3  3
   
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3
 Development Guidelines
City Centre Precinct
Prototype Considerations
Individual development projects can affect their surrounding environment
in many ways – both positively and negatively. In particular, high rise
urban buildings are complex and if not designed in a sensitive manner
they run the risk of creating a unpleasant street level environment.
108
Therefore, high rise buildings require careful design at three levels: street,
podium, and tower. Through the use of building prototypes, this chapter
outlines design parametres at each of those scales.
These three scales, however, cannot be addressed in isolation and
must be considered holistically at the precinct level to ensure that
the building design will support the character of the entire street by
contributing the right mix of activities, services, and access points. As
such, the building prototypes must be utilized in conjunction with the
Precinct Guidelines which provide details on the desired character of
each district within the City Centre.
The Precinct Guidelines provide the relative location of a parcel within
a given Precinct. They also provide general direction on district level
requirements that include the following building guidelines;:
• Podium Streetwall
• Primary Entrance Locations
• Transportation Requirements
• Allowable Service and Parking Access Points
Arcades
A building prototype is a simplified architectural form that is typical
of the modern requirements and needs of todays office, residential,
retail, hotel or community functions. In an urban environment
these prototypes can vary greatly based on height, parcel size or
geometry. In particular, urban high rise buildings require significant
coordination to address streetwall design, retail storefront, arcades,
stacking of uses, appropriate floor plate sizes and tower orientation.
Detail of illustrative massing model showing portions of the CBD, Souk Precinct and the North Spine.
The pages that follow provide direction on how the development of
parcels should occur in regard to:
• Architectural massing
• Tower position and setback
• Streetwall character
• Building frontage of podium
• Floor to floor heights
Architectural Massing
The mass of a building, its three-dimensional form, must be shaped
in order to provide an appropriate scale and relationship to exterior
spaces. In the City Centre, architectural massing is characterized by a
multi-story podium structure combined with single or double tower
structures above. The following additional conditions shall be met:
• Architectural design of urban buildings must address the building base
or street level, middle or mid-rise podium streetwall and tower form.
• Architectural expression of landmark buildings should provide
an impressive skyline image through the use of strong vertical
forms and expressive roof design.
• The podium structure contains lobbies and service areas, parking
access and retail areas at the street level.
• Podium floors above the street level may contain permitted uses
(see last page of this chapter) and parking areas as required.
• In order to create a largely continuous street wall, a portion of
the podium façade is required to be built along the parcel line.
• Towers for the primary building use are positioned above the
podium. Guidelines for maximum height, orientation and position
are established in the Precinct Guidelines.
• Below grade levels are required for parking and building service
levels. Specific requirements are established in the Parking
Strategies portion of the Precinct Guidelines.
 Building Prototype Overview
The building prototype design guidelines provide a framework for the type
of building that is allowed to be built on a specific site. These prototypes are
designated within the precinct guidelines. There are 16 building prototypes for
the City Centre District separated by program type:
109
Office = O
Hotel = H
Residential = R
Souk = S
The prototypes are further categorized by density:
High-Rise = HR
Mid-Rise = MR
Low-Rise =LR
Hence, the prototype label for an office high rise would be O-HR.2 - the
number indicates floor plan type (e.g., single tower, two tower, etc.).
Requirements associated with each prototype are detailed in the plot
development standards.

Souk Office O-MR.3 (red line indicates line O-MR.2 (red line indicates line
between midrise and highrise) between midrise and highrise)

Souk Prototypes Office Prototypes

Souk building programs Office buildings contain
vary based on their class A, B & C office
S-LR.O office, hotel or residential spaces, health care and /
Office overlay. Generally, the or medical studios above
arrangement would be the second floor. See
S-LR.H a courtyard building Permitted Land Uses
Hotel
serviced below grade with section for more specific
S-LR.R a shared parking facility. information.
Residential Retail is also a significant
component of the ground
floor program.

S-LR. O-LR.1 O-MR.1 O-HR.2 O-HR.1

‘O’ Courtyard Low-Rise Square Shaped Courtyard Low Rise Single Tower Mid-Rise Single Tower High-Rise

Hotel
Hotel Prototypes
Hotel buildings contain
hotel rooms and / or
service apartments above
the second floor. See
Permitted Land Uses
section for more specific
information.

H-MR.1 H-HR.3 H-HR.2 H-HR.1

Square Shaped Courtyard Mid-Rise Single Tower High-Rise ‘L’ Shaped Courtyard ‘U’ Shaped Courtyard
High-Rise High-Rise

Residential R-MR.2 (red line indicates line

between midrise and highrise)
Residential Prototypes
Residential buildings
contain multi family and
/ or senior housing above
the second floor. See
Permitted Land Uses
section for more specific
information.

R-TH.1 R-LR.2 R-LR.1 R-MR.1 R-HR.3 R-HR.2 R-HR.1

Townhouse Low-Rise Square Shaped Courtyard Low-Rise ‘L’ Shaped Courtyard ‘U’ Shaped Courtyard Two Tower High-Rise Point Tower High-Rise Single Tower High-Rise
Low-Rise Mid-Rise
 Sustainable Building
Performance

Introduction
Sustainability is one of the key imperatives of the design
of the Capital District and must be manifested in the
Capital District. Plan Abu Dhabi 2030 outlines three basic
110
elements of sustainability:

1. The natural environment,

2. Economic development, and
3. Cultural heritage

The following guidelines aim to facilitate these elements, and

are meant to function in concert with the directives of the Urban
Planning Council’s (UPC) Pearls Design System for Estidama,
whose mandate is to achieve the highest level of sustainable
built-environment in the UAE building on a foundation of five core
elements:

• Integrative Design Process

• Living Systems
• Liveable Buildings, Livable City
• Precious Water
• Resourceful Energy
• Stewarding Materials

The following provides an overview of broad strategies for building

design that should be employed through the design of the Capital
District, using the above core elements as touchstones.

Ancient Watchtower on Abu Dhabi Coast

111
 Sustainable Building
Performance

Building: Performance Standards

The guidelines outlined below are intended to complement the
Estidama Pearls Rating System in the following categories:

112 • Solar Protection

• Roof Design
• Wall Systems
• Mechanical Ventilation
• Solar Energy

Solar Protection
In Abu Dhabi, shading is required throughout the year; there are
only a couple of days in winter season where passive solar gains
will be welcome in residential settings. As a result, the general rule
is to protect all facades from excessive amount of solar radiation.
In summer, north and south facades get only limited solar radiation
due to the high sun altitude at noon time. In winter, the sun rises
in the south east and climbs up to 45 degree altitude. Hence, south
facades can get shading by horizontal louvers such as the brise-
soleil. East and west facades receive a high portion of solar radiation
at low sun angles; hence, fixed horizontal louvers, as applicable
for south facades, are not so effective. For east and west facades,
moveable shading systems are recommended.

The table below details the best shading device based on amounts
of solar energy directed toward the building’s surface.

The main function of windows is to provide views to the outside

and natural daylight for the indoor environment. For the purpose of
daylight supply, a limited amount of windows in the facade will be
sufficient due to Abu Dhabi’s location in relation to the path of the
sun. The highest window-to-wall ratio will occur in commercial
settings, where desire for a maximum amount of daylight supply
and a minimum of cooling load exists. For unobstructed facades of
this type, the optimum window-to-wall ratio is about 30 percent.
12 pm
10
am
,

roof shading using bright colours

ray

green roofs in front of north facades,

ted

shaded by the towers

ec
refl

south facade street wall should

incorporate shading devices Solar Protection Criteria
Facade orientation Total solar energy/year Recommended shading
North 550 kWh/m² Shallow horizontal louvers/awning
South 1250 kWh/m² Horizontal louvers/awning with depth-to-distance ratio of 1:1
East 1050 kWh/m² Adjustable external shading
West 1100 kWh/m² Adjustable external shading
Horizontal roof 2200 kWh/m² Fixed horizontal shading
Northwest 700 kWh/m² Horizontal and/or north oriented vertical louvers
Northeast 700 kWh/m² Horizontal and/or north oriented vertical louvers
Southeast 1250 kWh/m² Adjustable external shading
Southwest 1300 kWh/m² Adjustable external shading

5m R.O.W 5m

Solar shading from streetwall setbacks and overhangs provide shading. Shading device recommendations relative to facade orientation. Solar
energy measured in watts per square metre per kelvin, or W/m²K.
Roof Design
The design of a building’s roof system plays an important role in
reducing energy consumption. For example, a non-insulated dark
roof can transfer high heat gains into the interior of a building,
inducing uncomfortably hot temperatures at the ceiling level
and creating a large cooling load. There are two mechanisms
determining the heat transfer from outside to inside.
1. The heat transfer caused by the air temperature difference
between outside and inside. It is express by the U-value,
measured in W/m2K, describing the amount of heat travelling
through a component. Typical values range from 0.1 W/m2K
(well insulated roof) to 6.0 W/m2k (single pane glass).
2. The solar heat gain caused by the absorbance of solar energy,
which is then converted into heat. A part of this heat travels to
the inside. This part is expressed as solar heat gain coefficient or
g-value, measured as a number between 0 and 1 or percentage.
It is defined for opaque and transparent components. At well
insulated components, like roof constructions with bright
exterior colour, the solar heat gain coefficient is below 2%.
There are a number of ways to reduce the heat gain at the roof level
including:
• Material and colour selection - Bright and light-coloured surfaces
will do a better job of reflecting solar radiation, reducing the heat
gain absorbed by the roof.
• Increased insulation - Common materials for roof insulation are
polyurethane, polystyrene, mineral wool, and foam.
• Green vegetated roofs - A green roof is one that is partially
or completely covered with vegetation and soil or a growing
medium, planted over a waterproofing membrane. A green
roof does not replace insulation layers, but affects the surface
temperature in a positive way, reducing the heat island
effect. Extensive green roof systems operated with low water
consumption plans and, due to low water availability in Abu
Dhabi, such a system is recommended over any other.
Wall Systems
Although most vertical building walls do not obtain solar heat
throughout the entire day, like roof systems, they present another
opportunity to improve the thermal performance of a building.
Wall insulation can be achieved in several ways using the same
materials as roof insulation: polystyrene, polyurethane, and
mineral wool. Additionally, there are also monolithic blocks from
clay or aerulated concrete that achieve good thermal insulation
performance. All construction methods demand consideration of
vapour transfer from outside to inside, which is present year round
in Abu Dhabi. The merits of wall insulation are not only cooling
energy savings, but also improvement of thermal comfort by getting
interior surface temperatures closer to air temperature (both in cold
and in hot weather)
Wall insulation system
with polystyrene layer
and plaster. Applicable
inside or outside.
113
Wall insulation between
the building structure
and decorative brick
work.
Example of a low-irrigation green roof.
Solar Energy
As described above, in the worst case scenario, solar energy
received by the facade will be converted into cooling load; however,
these guidelines strive for the better solution of converting solar
energy received into useful energy such as light and electric energy.
At least 10% of the total energy consumption in the Capital District
should be generated by renewable sources.
Sunlight can be converted into electricity using photovoltaics,
concentrating solar power, and various experimental technologies.
Photovoltaics have mainly been used to power small and medium
sized applications, from the calculator powered by a single solar
cell to entire homes powered by a photovoltaic array. Horizontally
positioned receivers are not recommended for Abu Dhabi because of
the potential for sand and dust collection on the horizontal surface;
however, solar thermal evacuated tube collectors are a better
alternative. Solar receivers should be either tilted or mounted on
vertical planes to minimize the collection of dust.
The most applicable technique would be electricity generation from
photovoltaic cells. They can be applied on horizontal roofs (best
location), but also on east, south or west oriented facades, although
the output will be about 50% of a roof mounted system.
Solar thermal collectors generate hot water with an efficiency much
higher than the electric efficiency of photovoltaic cells. However,
the application of hot water is limited to residential units with
domestic hot water demand or to solar thermal cooling systems.
Tilted roof-mounted solar panels.
 Sustainable Building
Performance

Summary of Building Performance Guidelines

Based on the conditions, tools, and techniques described above, the

following are the key recommendations for building construction
that, in conjunction with the Estidama guidelines, developers and
114 builders should be well equipped to enjoy the benefits associated
with high performance buildings.

• Thermal insulation of the building envelope will reduce the

cooling load and, in combination with thermal mass, eliminate
the heating demand. Moreover, it enhances the level of thermal
comfort. A proper thermal insulation is, therefore, the most
important measure for a new construction. Adding insulation
to an existing building is costly, complicated and often less
effective.

• Air leakage of the building envelope is to be minimized in order

to reduce the infiltration of humid outdoor air.

• Roofs shall be generously insulated to reduce solar gains and

indoor ceiling temperature. The minimum thermal insulation
shall be equivalent to 20 centimetres of polystyrene. In addition,
bright exterior colours help both by reducing the cooling load of
the building and reducing the heat island effect caused by the
roof surface temperature.

• Green roofs shall be applied in combination with regular

insulation only. Due to scarcity of water, green roofs using low-
irrigation planting is recommended.

• Walls shall have a thermal insulation equivalent to 6 centimetres

of polystyrene. This can also be achieved by monolithic
constructions, such as porous bricks and aerulated concrete
blocks.

• Windows shall use solar control glasses with high light

transmittance and low solar energy transmittance. Good glass
achieves two times higher light than solar energy transmittance.

• The facade shall provide openings for natural ventilation which

can replace mechanical ventilation in winter season.

• Office buildings need a minimum amount of windows in order to

fulfil the indoor daylight requirements. All other utilization types
should minimize window size.

• Mechanical ventilation systems with outdoor air supply shall be

equipped with enthalpy recovery systems in order to reduce the
sensible and latent cooling load due to fresh air supply.

• Provide energy metering per each unit (apartment, office, shop).

115
 Parks & Open Space Guidelines
Federal Precinct

Landscape
Landscapes should be categorized according to management zones
and water use. High water use plants may be most appropriate for
concentrated areas that require texture, colour and shade such as
plazas and parks. Medium to low water use plant material and indig-
116 enous species may be best suited to areas that have lower density/
use levels such as streetscapes and perimeter landscapes. All plant
material to be robust and suitable to an arid and urban environment.

• Planting size (at maturity) should be used to enhance the

pedestrian scale of public spaces.
• Use tree planting to help unify the public realm and provide
definition to edges. Trees can help create the sense of ‘outdoor
rooms’.
• Use planting to help define specific spaces by using different
planting themes or species in different areas.
• Use landscaping to provide shade during the summer and help
ameliorate unpleasant climatic conditions.
• Use plant material native to the Middle East wherever possible
to minimize water requirements, to provide food and habitat to
native wildlife, and to reduce chemical pesticides and fertilizers.
• Plants that are arranged in massing should have similar
hydrazone characteristics to reduce maintenance and water
requirements.
• Sufficient planting depth and width should be provided when
planting over built structures such as parkade roofs.

Landscape Typology:
• Commemorative Plazas Landscape
• Capital Boulevard Landscape
• Parks Landscape
• Street Landscape
117
 Parks & Open Space Guidelines
Federal Precinct

General Tree Selection

• Tree selection is critical to the sustainability and usability of
public spaces.
• Trees should be durable, well adapted to urban environments,
and have low water requirements.
118
• Specific selection should be determined by height, spread,
character, litter production (from fruit, seeds, leaves, etc), and
root ball size.
• Tree should provide relief from intense summer heat and the
sun’s glare. The growth habit of the tree should be wide enough
(8m or larger is recommended) to provide significant shade.
• Deciduous trees may be appropriate for areas that would benefit
from increased solar access in winter.
• Evergreens should suit areas that require visual screening and
maximum sun protection.

Tree Planting Typology

• Commemorative Plazas / Parks Trees
• Iconic Street Trees
• Street Trees
• Retail Street Trees
• Trees should have a compact root habit.
• Lane Trees
• Trees should be easy to maintain and have adequate clearance
for cars and pedestrians.
The following lists the types of trees that are appropriate to major • Trees should create a legible rhythm of vertical forms that
areas of the public realm: compliments the rhythm of the architecture and site elements.

Commemorative Plazas / Park Trees Retail Street Trees

• Tree should contain a broad mix of palms, shade trees and
ornamental trees.
• Tree should contain a mix of evergreen and deciduous.
• Trees should be selected that support the character of the
particular park or square. For example, formal Islamic garden-
style areas can contain traditional species like date palms, citrus,
and almond trees. In contrast, desert garden-style spaces can
emphasize smaller-scale trees and large shrubs that are found in
dry, rocky escarpments and canyons.
Boulevard (Iconic) Street Trees
• Trees should be a mix of palm trees and full canopy decidious.
• Tree planting should contain formal, grid-like planting structure
with on-centre spacing ranging from 4 m to 10 m.
• Trees should have the same features as street trees, except they
should have a more ornamental and visually distinct habit.
• Features of the trees may include decorative flowers, special
foliage, deciduous or evergreen species, or interesting branching
structure.
• Trees should provide ample shade during summer months.
Lane Trees
• Trees shall be placed within private setbacks
• Smaller evergreen and/or deciduous trees, 3-5 m in spread and
height is recommended.
• Tree placement should not interfere with lighting or access to
garages.

Local Street Trees

• Trees should provide ample shade for pedestrians, cyclists

and parked vehicles. Dense canopied, evergreen trees are
recommended.
• Trees should typically be 8-10 m in spread and height.
• Tree spacing should reflect the mature size of the street tree.
Trees should be planted with ample canopy and root space.
8-12 m on-centre spacing is recommended.
• Tree spacing should work in unison with crosswalks, on-street
parking, light poles, and bicycle parking.

Lighting
• Lighting within the public realm together with borrowed light
from buildings should create an identity and ambience which
reinforces the character of spaces at night.
• All pedestrian streets should be lit.
• Lighting should clarify and highlight linkages and aid in
wayfinding and orientation.
• Lighting should promote the perceived and actual safety, as well
as security of spaces.
• Lighting should emphasize the hierarchy, function, and use of
spaces in the public realm.
• Lighting should be easy to install, respond to crime prevention,
and be low maintenance.
• Lighting should illuminate key features and focal points to help
enliven spaces and provide a sense of drama that in turn can
help activate the public realm at night.
• Lighting should minimize the amount of light pollution or
obtrusive spillover into surrounding residential areas.
• Lighting should utilize building facades as a surface on which to
mount lighting fixtures for the public realm as well as enhancing
building image.
• Lighting should provide a family of fixtures compatible and
consistent in colour and character.
• Lighting should establish a hierarchy of functional luminaires for
specific uses to comply with mandatory code requirements and
standards.
Lighting Typology
• Commemorative Plazas / Capital Boulevard
• Parks
• Retail Streets
• Major Streets
• Internal Streets
Street Lighting
• Lighting to aid vehicle movement and safety.
• Lighting should be pole mounted with outreach arms.
• The style and height of the poles should be compliant with the
local authority. 119
• Fixtures should have an optical lens with no upward light spill.
• Major streets should have high-intensity lighting (metal halide
fixtures.)
Pedestrian Lighting
• Lighting to aid pedestrian movement and safety.
• Lighting should be situated at a lower level than Street Lighting
and consist of post top/pole mount luminaries, fixtures under
canopies and wall-mounted lights.
• The distribution and positioning of poles should comply with
local authority requirements.
• Lights should be low intensity (high-pressure sodium.)
Crossing Lighting
• Lighting to aid pedestrian movement and safety.
• Provide lighting that increases awareness and that intensifies
the illumination at pedestrian crossing points.
Wayfinding Lighting
• Lighting aids in pedestrian direction and circulation.
• Lighting should be low intensity such as bollards, in-ground
lights, step and wall lights. Lights should supplement
pedestrian lighting but not substitute it.
Feature Lighting
• Lighting to highlight and focus attention.
• Lighting should display and accentuate a space, structure,
artwork, or monument. Lights include in ground up-lights,
floodlighting that provide colour and movement. Location,
positioning and specific fitting types should be tailored for the
subject matter.
Landscape Lighting
• Lighting to highlight landscape and foliage.
• Lighting should consist of fittings suitable for highlighting
shrubs, trees, and flower beds and should compliment
pedestrian and wayfinding lighting.
 Parks & Open Space Guidelines
Federal Precinct

Monument Park Character

• Monument Park contains an iconic monument that pays homage
to the heritage of UAE. The monument should be a distinctive
architectural and/or sculptural structure that is a unique landmark for
the Federal Precinct.
120 • The UAE Monument should act as a point of legibility within the
Capital District. It should be visible from a great distance - easily seen
when approaching from Dubai, Al Ain and the Western District of Al
Gharbria, and on departing the island of Abu Dhabi.
• The park provides a public gathering space that serves as a transition
from the ‘urban’ character of the Federal Precinct to the ‘natural’
character of the desert. In addition, it references the forms and
principles of the traditional Islamic garden.
• The park should function as a major amenity providing distinctive and
iconic open space. It should be a dynamic area with multiple uses and Key Uses Legend
activities including a water feature, a shady square with seating, and
1. UAE Monument with viewing deck, shaded
cafes. perimeter, water feature at base and cafe
• The park should emphasize a ‘desert’ environment with soft and hard 2. Entry plaza with seating, palms and
dynamic lighting
paving, palm trees, and shade structures.
3. Perimeter plaza with decorative soft
• The park should emphasize a clear site line to National Square and the surface paving, arid planting, water rills
National Mosque. and palms

2
1
 Capital Boulevard Character
• Capital Boulevard West is the western portion of the civic and
open space spine of the Federal Precinct. It connects Monument
Park to International Park.
• It is comprised of a series of character sections at block
level. The character of these sections transition from a more 121
arid, desert feel of at the western end to a more lush area at
International Park.
• The built form along the edges of the Boulevard are primarily
embassies in this zone.
• The civic spine should host a variety of monuments that
celebrate the history of UAE.
• In order to provide significant pedestrian amenity, water features
should be incorporated along the spine. Water features should
be proportional to the width of the boulevard.
Key Uses Legend
1. Gathering area with water feature, seating
and shade
2. Central promenade with decorative paving,
water rills, seating, lighting and palms
3. Commemorative monuments

SECT
ION O
1 NE

2
SECT
ION T
WO
1 3
 Parks & Open Space Guidelines
Federal Precinct

International Park Character

• International Park is the large circular focal open space at
the heart of the Federal Precinct. It should contain lush and
comfortable outdoor spaces.

122 • The park is organized on a four-quadrant grid that references

Islamic traditions. A mix of shady and sunny spaces can be
achieved through the use of bosques of palms and shade trees.
• The park should accommodate a variety of uses including
recreation, civic, cultural, and religious amenity.
• The park should include underground parking, with appropriate
parking access (entry and exit) points as needed.
Key Uses Legend
1. Cultural Amenity Building
2. Central promenade
3. Perimeter arbour
4. Monuments / garage vents / water
features
5. Cafe / kiosk / pedestrian garage access
6. Play equipment and washroom
7. Formal gardens and seating
8. Botanic gardens and lush planting
9. Multi-use turf Areas
10. Vehicular parking access
11. Tram Route

4 10
9

7
6

5
1

11
1
3
 National Square Character
•• National Square is the oval-shaped open space at the centre of
the Capital District.

•• It should be a highly formal and commemorative space that

serves as a dignified compliment to a stately government
123
building..

•• The plazas and the architecture should be integrated both

visually and functionally. This can be achieved through the
use of a large shade structure and/or floating roof that extends
from the building into the space, by having a common family of
materials, and design details between the architecture and the
public realm.
Key Uses Legend:
•• Clear sitelines should be maintained along the central axis of
1. Precinct Plaza with multi-function decorative
Capital Boulevard to Monument Park to the west and the National paving area, interactive fountain, seating and
Mosque to the east. dynamic lighting
2. Government building with floating roof
structure
3. Commemorative monuments may be
incorporated into supports for floating roof
4. CBD Plaza with decorative paving area,
interactive fountain, bench seating and
dynamic lighting
5. Perimeter arbour
6. Decorative arid gardens
7. Building access aligned with street axial points

3 2

2 4

.key plan 7

6
 Parks & Open Space Guidelines
City Centre Precinct

Distribution Overview
The City Centre Precinct has a population of approximately 200,000
residents which is 55% of the entire residential population residing
on 11% of the land area within the boundaries of the Capital
City. The distribution of open space in the City Centre is based on
124 balancing open standards with overall land densities and precinct
populations.

The City Centre project area provides approximately 1 hectare of

open space for every 1,000 people which is a substantial amenity
in a dense urban environment and significantly greater than many
world class cities. This ratio compares very favourably with other
cities (New York City, San Francisco, Washington DC). The Capital
District as a whole seeks to achieve Estidama goals of 2 hectares
of open space for every 1,000 people, which will incorporate the
lower residential population areas.

The diagram below illustrates the location of the various park

spaces and the summary of the land area dedicated to open space
in each precinct.

0 50m 100m

6.7 ha

8.0 ha

3.6 ha

5.0 ha

2.6 ha
4.7 ha

R
R

5.5 ha 7.0 ha

5.9 ha
R
R

3.3 ha

5.3 ha

10.5 ha
5.3 ha 5.1 ha
R
R

4.8 ha
R

1:10000 NO
 Irrigation Management Overview
Open spaces are managed according to the amount of water
consumed with the areas of highest water consumption getting the
greatest amount of horticultural care. The management strategy
involves the use of plant materials and other landscape components
that do not put additional strain on scarce natural resources. 125
It has been conceived to support the reuse of Treated Sewage
Effluent (TSE), with a goal of keeping it under 50% of the total
TSE produced. This strategy will allow for the potential of using the
excess TSE within the private domain, as a primary irrigation source.
The purpose of the management zone designation is to coordinate
open space and landscape plantings with management strategies
for the City Centre. These water management requirements provide
enough flexibility to create a variety of high-quality public and
private open spaces, while achieving city-wide water use and
sustainability goals.

An overall goal for water consumption within the public realm for the
Capital District is that irrigation should consume no more than 50% of
total available TSE (Capital District Infrastructure Masterplan).

R
R

Irrigation & Management Zones

R
R

High Irrigation Management

Zone
4-5 gal / M2 / day
Average: 70 gal / tree / day

Medium Irrigation Management

Zone
R
R

2-4 gal / M2 / day

R

Average: 50 gal / tree / day

Low Irrigation Management

Zone
R

Less than 2 gal / M2 / day

Average: 30 gal / tree / day

1:10000 NORTH
 Parks & Open Space Guidelines
City Centre Precinct

Example of Treated Sewage

Effluent (TSE) Use Analysis
The table below illustrates a method for calculating the irrigation
requirements for Precinct Seven, taking into account the open space
126 types within the precinct.

The water use calculations separate street trees from park land
areas. Street trees water needs are based on a linear street
frontage, corresponding number of street trees and water use by
plant species. Where as park and other planted areas rely on a water
use per square meter of park space.

Sub-Precinct Seven, on the North Spine, has a sum of 266, 211

gallons of TSE required for public space and 177,629 gallons
required for private domain spaces for a total of 443,840 gallons of
TSE required.

The projected population for Sub-Precinct Seven is 27,848

residents, with each generating 60.72 gals. for a total of 1,690,930
gals of TSE. This indicates that only 26% of the TSE generated by
the population is required for irrigation, which is substantially below
the 50% goal of TSE for irrigation use. This leaves a substantial
amount of TSE water available for to provide water features and
other water related elements within the new Capital District.
Precinct 7
Prototype analysis  of IRRIGATION and TSE 
Refer to appendix for assumptions

ROW's

Trees/Shrubs Net (L) Tree spacing No. of trees TSE per tree Total TSE

S 9‐30 4790 8 599 30 17963

S 12‐41 4872 8 609 50 30450

S 7‐21 5450 8 681 30 20438

S 13‐62 2410 8 301 50 15063

sidewalk 2410 8 301 50 15063

Plantings
ROW's Planted Area (SM) TSE/gal/ SM L/SM Total TSE
S 13 Median 7840 3 23520
sidewalk 2410 1 2410
0
S 12 median 9930 3 29790
sidewalk 4872 1 4872
0
Parks 0
NP  (1‐6) 13037.5 4.5 58669
0 0
RP (1‐3) 9248.4 4.5 41618
0 0
CP (1‐2) 737.8 3 2213
0 0
LP (1‐4) 1381.45 3 4144
0

266211
Priv.  Domain Open Space Planted TSE/gal/ SM Total TSE
78946 39473 4.5 177629
Park Typology Overview
All open spaces in the City Centre are categorized into specific
typologies based on the size, scale, and intended character of
the space. These typologies include: ceremonial open spaces,
recreational parks, neighbourhood parks, civic plazas, linear parks
and pedestrian spaces within street rights-of ways. 127

Ceremonial Open Space

Ceremonial open spaces represent the largest parks in the plan and are intended to
serve the entire population of the Capital District. These significant open spaces are
intended to be the setting for national and local events, celebrations and locations of
significant monuments and architecture.

This dramatic green space connecting the central Oval Park with the Federal Mosque
depicted in the adjacent diagram is one of the primary and symbolic ceremonial open
spaces in the City Centre. This space is composed on the following elements: a grand
central Federal Mosque, a boulevard lined with monumental alee of trees; a wide
variety of shade structures and garden spaces; and a significant civic gathering space.

As a symbol of the City, it is important the landscape design and water irrigation
requirements for the ceremonial open spaces adhere to the Abu Dhabi sustainability
goals and seek to conserve water use through strategic horticulture design and use of
native desert materials, where possible.
 Open Space Overview
City Centre Precinct

Neighbourhood Park
Neighbourhood Parks on average are less than
one hectare in size and are designed to -serve
the needs of a single residential neighbourhood.
Typically located near Cultural Centres and
128
Mosques, neighbourhood parks provide places for
small community gatherings and recreation. The
design should be neighbourhood oriented and can
encompass children’s play equipment, informal
recreational/ multi-use turf areas, picnic areas,
plaza, public gardens and seating areas.

The basic design parametres should have

approximately 67% of the land area dedication
towards active uses; with approximately 30%
dedicated towards sports fields and the rest
designed towards playgrounds and passive uses.

From a sustainability perspective, the design of

neighbourhood parks should reflect their water
management zone. However the water usage
can variety through-out the park allowing for
some higher and lush vegetative areas while still
maintaining the average water use as defined
by the water management zone. It is assumed
that approximately 33% of the land area will
be soft or vegetative surfaces versus hard or
paved surfaces. Creating shading devices for
neighbourhood gatherings are very important and
it is recommended that 67% of the land area have
shading devices.

Civic Plaza
Civic Plazas should be an aesthetically inviting
space that works in concert with the immediate
surroundings to create a sense of place. These
plazas can range in size from small scale pocket
parks to larger monument plazas surrounded
by civic buildings. In the City centre these
plazas tend to be located at important roadway
intersections. Civic Plazas are typically adjacent
to office, government office or institutional
uses and should be designed to relate to
adjacent entrances and uses. Typically civic
plazas are designed for passive uses and do not
accommodate sport facilities.

From a sustainability perspective, the design

of civic plazas should reflect their water
management zone. However the water
usage can vary allowing for some higher and
lush vegetative areas while still maintaining
the average water use as defined by the
water management zone. It is assumed that
approximately 40% of the land area will be
soft or vegetative surfaces versus 60% hard
or paved surfaces. Creating shading devices
for urban settings is very important and it is
recommended that 75% of the land area have
shading devices.
Linear Park
Linear Parks vary in length, width and scale
and are designed to encourage pedestrian
movement through public places in the city.
These linear corridors may run through several 129
precincts with visual connection and provide
opportunities for locating monuments along
strong visual / linear corridors. These spaces
are often oriented towards the prevailing
wind to encourage cooling through natural
ventilation. Many of the linear parks in the
City centre are designed with a formal line of
trees flanking either side of a paved pedestrian
walkway with opportunities for pavilions for
bazaars or festivals.

The design of linear parks should reflect their

water management zone. However the water
usage can vary allowing for some higher and
lush vegetative areas while still maintaining
the average water use as defined by the
water management zone. It is assumed that
approximately 20% of the land area will be
soft or vegetative surfaces versus 80% hard
or paved surfaces. Creating shading devices
for urban settings is very important and it is
recommended that 80% of the land area have
shading devices.

Recreational Park
Typically these recreational parks range
from 1 to 2.5 hectares and serve the greater
population beyond a single precinct or
neighbourhood. These parks are oriented
towards active recreation with many sports
facilities incorporated in the design; including
but not limited to playgrounds, soccer fields,
tennis courts, swimming pools, cricket fields
and indoor recreation facilities.

In the City Centre recreational park spaces

are typically located adjacent to schools and
Cultural Centres to encourage opportunities
for shared use and neighbourhood gatherings.
The basic design parametres should have
approximately 80% of the land area dedication
towards active uses; of that 60% dedicated
towards sports fields and 20% dedicated
towards playgrounds.

From a sustainability perspective, the design

of recreational parks should reflect their water
management zone. However the water usage
can variety through-out the park allowing
for some higher and lush vegetative areas
while still maintaining the average water use
as defined by the water management zone.
It is assumed that approximately 50% of the
land area will be soft or vegetative surfaces
versus hard or paved surfaces. Creating shading
devices for recreation sports is very important
and it is recommended that 50% of the land
area have shading devices that are designed to
address the specific sport needs.
 Transportation & Circulation
Streets

Within the Capital District there are three major types of

streets, each relating to the scale of the traffic volume it
is intended to carry and the type of character the street
is intended to have.
130 • Retail Streets (e.g., S7 - 21m) make up some of the narrowest
right of ways within the plan. These streets are intended to
be easily crossed by pedestrian traffic and have a small-scale
character.
• Neighbourhood Streets (e.g. S8 - 25m and S9 - 30m), are
mostly residential streets; these streets make up the majority
of the plan. They have a pedestrian focus, but also connect
neighbourhoods and connect traffic to major arterial streets.
• Boulevards in the plan are both symbolic and functional. Arterial
boulevards move traffic in and out of the Capital District (e.g.
S15 - 62m and S14m-48). They are also symbolically important
to the city and will have national and local institutions, as well as
public art along them. These will begin to form gateways to the
City Centre. The widest and most important boulevards are the
Outer Ring Boulevards (e.g. S17- 75m), which are circular and
form the basic geometry of the plan.

Retail Streets Neighbourhood Streets

Illustrative retail street site plan. Illustrative neighbourhood street site plan.

Illustrative retail street section. llustrative neighbourhood street section.

 131

Arterial Boulevards Outer Ring Boulevard

Illustrative arterial boulevard street site plan. Illustrative arterial boulevard street site plan.

Illustrative arterial boulevard street section. Illustrative arterial boulevard street section.
 Transportation & Circulation
Streets

Scale and Proportion of Primary Boulevards

1. Vehicular corridor
1a. The vehicular corridors are anchored by tall canopy trees that
132 establish the overall scale.
1b. Opposite travel lanes are scaled down by medians planted
with medium sized trees. Planting in the medians should be
designed to create long views and a variety of experiences
for the driver and passenger.
1c. Emphasis should be on informal groupings of multi-stemmed
trees and shrubs set amidst native grasses, low woody
ground cover, and desert elements.
2. Bicycle paths should be separated from the pedestrian and
vehicular realm by two-layered planting with breaks for special
events, creating intimate gathering spaces where pedestrians
and bicyclists can interact and rest.
3. The pedestrian realm weaves through arcades and shaded
sidewalks to create a varied environment for social interaction
and an active street life.

1a

1b 1b
3 2 1 3
2

Conceptual primary street section highlighting key elements of scale, character and proportion.

Tree Structures A B C

Multi layered Structure Low Structure Canopy Structure

Types of tree structures appropriate to the Abu Dhabi streetscape.

A B C

A B C

A. Multi Layered Structure at Parks and
wide medians of Boulevards.
B. Low Structure at medians less than
1m wide and surrounding areas at
City edges
C. Canopy Structure at sidewalks.
B. Low Structure at medians less than C. Canopy Structure at sidewalks.
1m wide and surrounding areas at
City edges
C. Canopy Structure at sidewalks.
 Scale and Proportion of Retail and
Neighbourhood Streets

1. In these small streets the arcades in front of the stores become

important part of the public space. 133
2. To reinforce this extension of the public realm, the elaborate
paving pattern under the arcade spills onto the public side
3. The planting is designed to create a tall shaded canopy over the
whole corridor.
4. This elevated canopy allows visual connection across the street
to encourage crossover retail activity.
5. The intimate spaces reinforce an animated street life.

1 4

2 3 5

Conceptual retail and neighborhood street section highlighting key elements of scale, character and proportion.

Arcades
•• Building setback of 4m on the ground level.
•• First level minimum floor to floor height: 5m.
•• Transparency along the ground floor is required.
Transparency
Floor to Floor height

Building Setback
 134
Sidewalk

Landscape & Bike Lane

Sidewalk

Illustrative Centre Spine street section.

Off Peak Parking Lane Landscape & Bike Lane

Off Peak Parking Lane

Illustrative Street Section - 48M

Vehicle Lanes

Vehicle Lanes

Landscape Landscape

Vehicle Lanes
Typical Street Sections

Vehicle Lanes Off Peak Parking Lane

Spine Illustrative Street Section - Centre Spine - 62M

Off Peak Parking Lane Landscape & Bike Lane

Landscape & Bike Lane Sidewalk

Sidewalk
Transportation & Circulation

Sidewalk & Landscape

Sidewalk

Illustrative CBD outer ring street section.

Tram

Tram

Landscape

Off Peak Parking Lane Off Peak Parking Lane

Vehicle Lane

Vehicle Lanes Landscape

Vehicle Lane

CBD Illustrative Street Section - Outer Ring 75M

Off Peak Parking Lane
CBD Illustrative Street Section - Middle Ring - 43M

Landscape

Tram

Vehicle Lanes Sidewalk

Off Peak Parking Lane

Bike Lane & Landscape

Sidewalk
 Sidewalk

Illustrative CBD oval ring street section.

Illustrative Mosque District street sections.
Landscape & Bike Lane

Off Peak Parking Lane Sidewalk & Landscape

Vehicle Lanes Parking Lane

Vehicle Lanes
Landscape
Parking Lane

CBD Illustrative Street Section - Oval Ring 41M

Vehicle Lanes
Sidewalk & Landscape

Off Peak Parking Lane

Landscape & Bike Lane

Mosque District Illustrative Street Section - Primary Road 25M

Sidewalk

Mosque District Illustrative Street Section- Secondary Road 16M

Sidewalk & Landscape
Parking Lane

Vehicle Lanes

Sidewalk & Landscape

Sidewalk

Vehicle Lanes

Sidewalk

Illustrative street sections.

Illustrative retail street sections.
Sidewalk

Tram & Landscape

Sidewalk & Landscape

Parking Lane
Off Peak Parking Lane

Vehicle Lanes Vehicle Lanes

Parking Lane

Illustrative Street Sections - 11 M / 38M / 6.5M

Off Peak Parking Lane
Spine Illustrative Street Section - Retail Street 21M

Sidewalk & Landscape

Tram & Landscape

Sidewalk
135
 Transportation & Circulation
Transit Stations

Metro Station Plazas Plan

A Metro station access will be provided through station portals

within the public realm. Locating metro station access points
within commercial buildings may be an option during more
136 detailed design stages. All metro stations will have a minimum of
four station entries and a maximum of six (at either end of the
platform and at mid-platform).
B Boulevard ends create the opportunity for public art and signage
that relate to the retail street and neighbourhood character.
C A potential gateway condition at the entry to the retail street.
The gateway could be marked with special sculpture, kiosks,
plantings, or archway.
D The retail corridor.
E Plantings may vary at each corner, and in different zones. The
character of the landscape at each plaza should be different.
F Different types of paving will enhance the feel of the street.

A A

C E

E B
F

C
E
A A

Illustrative metro station plaza area site plan highlighting key elements.
Tram Station Requirements

Tram stations are an opportunity to create wonderful pedestrian

oriented public spaces in the City Centre. The tram station can be
a great neighbourhood amenity beyond the original purpose of
providing transportation. For example, the platform can be designed 137
to provide an inviting streetscape with shade trellises, landscape,
benches, fountains, street trees, way finding signage and public art.
In many cases, the station area is integrated with the retail street
and will share arcades and public spaces. In some cases, the tram
station is adjacent to recreation parks and civic plazas creating a
landscaped edge to the station platform.

Tram Stations in this section are organized based on the particular

street configurations and fall into the following general categories.
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138 Acknowledgements
The Capital District Masterplan was developed between February
2008 and March 2009 by the Urban Planning Council under the
direction of Falah Al Ahbabi. The development of the Masterplan
was undertaken by a several inter-disciplinary consulting teams and
international experts and managed by UPC Policy and Plans Division
with extensive involvement from other UPC departments and
139
government agencies.

UPC Project Team

Jody Andrews, Director Capital District Development
Michael White, Senior Manager
Yousif Al Fahim, Planning Professional
Alan Perkins, Senior Manager, Transportation
Bill Lashbrook, Planning Manager, Transportation
Peter Wong, Planning Professional, Transportation
Neil Mallen, Planning Manager, Environment
Garry Papers, Planning Manager, Development Review And Urban Design
UPC Editorial Team
UPC Corporate Communications Team:
Budour Rawas Al-Rashedi, Ghadeer Al Mansoori, Fouad Kassem,
Jean-Philippe Coulaud

Abu Dhabi Department of Transport

Jumana Nabti, Public Transport Strategy And Policy Specialist
Khaled Jamil Shammout, Transport Planning Specialist

Graphic Design and Layout:

Arian Hashemi-Tafreshi - Brand Faith, Abu Dhabi

Masterplan Consultant Teams

Federal Precinct Masterplan Transportation and Infrastructure
CIVITAS Urban Design and Planning Masterplan
Busby, Perkins + Will KEO International

City Centre Masterplan Transit Network Design

Solomon Cordwell Buenz in association Mott MacDonald
with TransSolar and Andropogon
Associates Masterplan & Urban Design Advisors
CIVITAS Urban Design and Planning
Emirati Neighbourhood Masterplan Beasley and Associates
KEO International in association with
Dan Weinbach & Partners