Recent data shows that green spaces,
in the Emirate of Dubai, expanded by
more than 35 per cent, in 2015. While
aesthetic factors are a consideration,
expanding the green areas are part
of the city’s strategic concept and
series of objectives, in respect to
environmental considerations. These
recent additions have increased
the share of green spaces to over
13 square metres, per capita.
In the emirate of Abu Dhabi, around
6,600 hectares of greenery was added
over the last 12 months. Official
bodies are now adhering to global
standards and practices, with modern
technologies also being deployed
to assist in areas such as climate
conditioning and the rationing of water.
Around 64 future projects, including
entertainment parks and gardens, will
be developed over the next few years.
Qatar
Al Mazaya’s Report also points to the
efforts in Qatar, where integration of green
spaces within its urban development
is currently being implemented. These
efforts are supported by a planned
agricultural strategy being rolled out
across the country. One of the key
stated aims is to combat the high
summer temperatures experienced in
Qatar, in addition to providing more
attractive real estate projects, offering
adjoining public parks and gardens,
which can add tangible value to property
prices, compared to other locations.
Conclusion
In spite of the current challenges
facing regional economies, the
provision, allocation and recycling
of water is considered to be the
backbone for the success of green
space
expansion
strategies
–
both within and outside the cities.
In addition to capitalising on foreign
expertise and technologies, GCC
countriesareinneedofmoreforestation.
While the environmental advantages
are clear, these types of initiatives will
also help enhance the psychological
and physical health of society. In
relation to climate conditioning and
moderating the effects of the weather
– especially in summer – forestation
will contribute to lowering the
region’s extremely high temperatures.
UAE
Al Mazaya’s Report has also identified that
considerable development on the concept
and content of the expansion of green
spaces, in the UAE, has coincided with the
rapid urban expansion witnessed across
the country, since the turn of the century.
Mazaya Monthly Real Estate Report -
Week 5 - May 2016
23


