Planning the Future of Abu Dhabi explores the fascinating transformation of its namesake city from rapidly expanding oil boomtown into a showcase of visionary planning and development management.
Early in the twenty-first century, Abu Dhabi was the quintessential boom town as the proceeds from vast oil production transformed its traditional landscape. But since 2007, the Emirate has become a showcase for contemporary city building and custodianship of the natural world. In a relatively short time, explosive piecemeal expansion was superseded by visionary planning and development management – with a deliberate focus on sustainability, livability, and cultural sensitivity.
Planning the Future of Abu Dhabi brings together the Canadians who guided this dramatic transformation. Despite coming from a very different planning environment, they were able to work with Abu Dhabi leadership and colleagues to found a progressive planning agency. Each chapter of this book walks readers though the rapid and comprehensive process that resulted in state-of-the-art guidance for development. Initiatives included thorough community and regional plans, a development control system, transportation and public-realm innovations, a sustainable approach to building and environmental stewardship, capacity building for civic design, and training for handover to local management.
Larry Beasley, the overall project leader, and Michael White, the key in-country lead, bring together the Canadians to tell the story of how the Emirate was repositioned as a model in the Middle East for advanced, responsible growth.
Urban planners and designers, environmentalists, and social scientists everywhere will find this work packed with fascinating, practical insights into the evolution of a major urban planning project. It will also make an invaluable addition to the libraries of those interested in architecture, civil engineering, sociology, political science, and Middle Eastern affairs.
Purchase it now from UBC Press: https://www.ubcpress.ca/planning-the-future-of-abu-dhabi
larrybeasleyassociates.com 