Dubai's Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has approved a series of major urban development projects by Dubai Municipality, including a first-of-its-kind falcon market, an 8-kilometre creek lighting initiative, and the world's first AI-powered park design challenge.
The approvals align with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan and the emirate's broader ambition to become the world's most liveable city.
The Dubai Falcon Market will be the region's first integrated, specialised falcon market, spanning approximately 50,000 square feet at an estimated cost of AED 50 million. Its architecture draws inspiration from the wings of a falcon and will house retail outlets, a veterinary clinic, cultural event spaces, and visitor experiences rooted in Emirati falconry heritage.
The Dubai Creek Lighting project will transform the historic waterway into a fully integrated night-time destination. Covering promenades, heritage markets, building facades, and waterfront walkways, the initiative aims to revive the creek's cultural and historical significance through an innovative lighting system. The project is scheduled for completion in the first quarter of 2027.
The First AI-Powered Park Design Challenge invites designers, university students, startups, and innovation specialists to develop parks and public spaces using artificial intelligence and data analytics. Winning entries will be selected by an international panel alongside community participation, reinforcing Dubai's commitment to human-centric urban design.
Dubai Municipality also announced a collaboration with Japanese architect Kengo Kuma on the Reservoir Park project, his first park design in Dubai, blending architectural innovation with local cultural identity.
Sheikh Hamdan said the projects reflect Dubai's vision of placing people and quality of life at the heart of urban development, while embracing sustainability, innovation, and advanced technology as the pillars shaping the city's future.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
