Dubai Municipality has launched the Urban Think Tank and Design Lab, a collaborative platform that unites experts, developers, researchers and communities to rethink urban design and strengthen Dubai’s role as a global incubator for future cities.
The initiative was unveiled at Museum of the Future, with the participation of government leaders, real estate developers, international architects, academics, and researchers. Designed as a hub for innovation, the Lab will focus on advanced technologies, participatory planning, and collaborative projects that place people at the heart of city design.
Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture, highlighted the vision behind the project, saying: “Dubai’s experience has demonstrated that the cities of the future will be those that are innovative and regenerative, cities that place people at the centre of their planning and design”.
The first project under the Lab will focus on urban renewal in Dubai’s older residential areas, revitalising neighbourhoods while preserving their identity and integrating sustainable design. Partnerships with leading developers including Emaar Properties, Binghatti Holding ans well as others, universities such as American University of Sharjah and the University of Birmingham Dubai, and global design firms will ensure knowledge exchange, while dedicated collaborations will support applied research and international expertise.