Mattar Al Tayer, Commissioner-General for Infrastructure, Urban Planning, and Wellbeing Pillar and Chairman of the Supreme Committee of Urban Planning in Dubai, spoke at the 2023 World Government Forum on the topic of urban planning as a pathway to well-being. In his keynote speech, Al Tayer emphasized the growing importance of well-being and sustainability in the face of challenges facing metropolitan cities, including rapid population growth, urbanization, technological revolution, and climate change.
Al Tayer spoke about the Dubai Urban Plan 2040, which was launched in 2021 by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai. The plan aims to make Dubai the best city to live in and charts a sustainable path for urban development in the emirate, with a focus on human well-being and improved quality of life.
The Dubai Urban Plan 2040 seeks to provide flexible and sustainable mobility options, with 55% of the population living within 800 meters or less of public transportation stations. It also aims to enhance investment opportunities and green spaces, as well as attract more tourists through the expansion of hotel and tourism activities. The plan identifies five urban centres, including the Historical Centre in Deira and Bur Dubai, the Economic and Financial Centre in Burj Khalifa and Business Bay, and the Tourism and Entertainment Centre in Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Beach Residence, among others.
The plan aims to increase population density and development while retaining 60% of the emirate’s total area as natural reserves and rural areas. It also seeks to provide 80% of the daily population’s needs within 20 minutes or less of walking, cycling, or soft mobility. In conclusion, Al Tayer emphasized the importance of urban planning as a pathway to well-being and the role of the Dubai Urban Plan 2040 in promoting sustainability, well-being, and quality of life for residents in the city.
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