Dubai has experienced rapid economic and population growth over the past 15 years, developing as a commercial and tourist hub in the Middle East. However, this growth raises questions about Dubai's long-term sustainability due to issues like traffic congestion, rising housing costs, cultural integration challenges from its diverse expatriate population, and pollution problems from waste and vehicles. Dubai is working to address these challenges through investments in infrastructure and public transit, housing development, education reforms, and environmental regulations. However, sustainable development will require improved planning and management of Dubai's continued growth to ensure its economic success is maintained for future generations.
Urban Land How Sustainable Is Dubai, June 2007, Pp. 60 64.Vishal Pandey MSc 🎯
Dubai has experienced rapid economic and population growth in recent decades, but faces sustainability challenges. It struggles with traffic congestion due to high car ownership and limited public transit. Housing costs and living expenses are rising quickly. While the economy relies heavily on expatriate workers, cultural integration remains a challenge. Dubai must also address issues like pollution, waste management, and developing its workforce as it plans for continued growth. To sustain long-term success, Dubai needs improved planning, affordable housing, efficient transit, talent retention, and responsible environmental stewardship.
The document summarizes the transformation of Dubai from a small trading outpost to a major global city and smart city. It discusses how Dubai Municipality has spearheaded Dubai's development and is now leading efforts to digitize city services to make Dubai smart. The rest of the document consists of an interview with the Director General of Dubai Municipality about the municipality's role in real estate development, measures taken to ensure a stable market, and efforts to promote Dubai as a smart city.
The document discusses smart city initiatives in the Middle East, focusing on the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar. It provides details on specific smart city projects and programs in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Saudi Arabia's King Abdullah Economic City and Kingdom City. The four main drivers for smart city development in the region are cited as: moving economies away from fossil fuels, high urban populations and population growth, regional security issues, and addressing large youth populations through education and jobs. Challenges to smart city development include economic dependence on oil and expatriate workforces, as well as effects of the global financial crisis.
Vacant Land Memorandum to Department of Finance; Proposed Vacant Land Levy fo...kieran rose
The document proposes introducing a levy on vacant land in the inner city of Dublin to incentivize development. It notes that Dublin still has considerable amounts of vacant land, especially in the city center, which remains undeveloped despite years of economic growth. A vacant land levy aims to address this issue by providing a disincentive for landowners to leave land vacant. It is argued that vacant land drags on economic recovery and productivity. The levy is intended to accelerate development of vacant lands and realize associated economic benefits like job creation and reduced commuting. Details proposed include exempting land with compliant interim uses like temporary parks.
The document discusses transportation options in Dubai, including air travel, the metro system, water taxis, buses, roads, and taxis. It provides details on Emirates airline, Dubai International Airport, the four lines of the Dubai Metro, abra water taxis, the public bus system, roads and taxis. It describes Dubai Taxis and some of the major taxi companies that operate under franchise agreements.
The document discusses whether the lifestyle in Dubai reflects sustainable development. It defines sustainable development and examines Dubai across economic, social, and environmental factors.
While Dubai has a diversified economy and tolerant society, it relies heavily on fossil fuels and expatriate workforce. To improve sustainability, the document proposes developing alternative energy sources, reducing reliance on benefits for citizens to join the workforce, expanding public transport powered by renewable energy, and providing citizenship options to long-term expatriate residents to promote a more cohesive society. The government recognizes the need for improvements and has outlined plans to make Dubai a global, pioneering hub in line with sustainable development.
The document discusses various topics related to sustainable urban planning in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. It provides details on Dubai's population growth, air quality and efforts to improve it, biodiversity conservation, waste management and recycling programs, transportation infrastructure like buses, taxis, and metro system, healthcare, education, green spaces, effects of climate change, food, and Dubai's economic base transitioning from oil to tourism. It also includes a spider chart comparing Dubai's performance in these sustainability factors.
The City Of Dubai And Its Current Status Of A World Class...Brianna Johnson
Dubai has rapidly developed into a global city and tourism hub through large-scale urbanization projects. The document discusses Dubai's rise through two perspectives: the political economy approach, which views the city as a site for capital accumulation and reshaping social relations, and the post-colonial approach, which sees Dubai addressing its colonial history and class struggles between Emiratis and migrant workers. While Dubai has achieved great economic success, its rapid growth has also led to inequality, loss of cultural heritage, and an unstable economy dependent on a single economic model.
Urban Land How Sustainable Is Dubai, June 2007, Pp. 60 64.Vishal Pandey MSc 🎯
Dubai has experienced rapid economic and population growth in recent decades, but faces sustainability challenges. It struggles with traffic congestion due to high car ownership and limited public transit. Housing costs and living expenses are rising quickly. While the economy relies heavily on expatriate workers, cultural integration remains a challenge. Dubai must also address issues like pollution, waste management, and developing its workforce as it plans for continued growth. To sustain long-term success, Dubai needs improved planning, affordable housing, efficient transit, talent retention, and responsible environmental stewardship.
The document summarizes the transformation of Dubai from a small trading outpost to a major global city and smart city. It discusses how Dubai Municipality has spearheaded Dubai's development and is now leading efforts to digitize city services to make Dubai smart. The rest of the document consists of an interview with the Director General of Dubai Municipality about the municipality's role in real estate development, measures taken to ensure a stable market, and efforts to promote Dubai as a smart city.
The document discusses smart city initiatives in the Middle East, focusing on the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar. It provides details on specific smart city projects and programs in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Saudi Arabia's King Abdullah Economic City and Kingdom City. The four main drivers for smart city development in the region are cited as: moving economies away from fossil fuels, high urban populations and population growth, regional security issues, and addressing large youth populations through education and jobs. Challenges to smart city development include economic dependence on oil and expatriate workforces, as well as effects of the global financial crisis.
Vacant Land Memorandum to Department of Finance; Proposed Vacant Land Levy fo...kieran rose
The document proposes introducing a levy on vacant land in the inner city of Dublin to incentivize development. It notes that Dublin still has considerable amounts of vacant land, especially in the city center, which remains undeveloped despite years of economic growth. A vacant land levy aims to address this issue by providing a disincentive for landowners to leave land vacant. It is argued that vacant land drags on economic recovery and productivity. The levy is intended to accelerate development of vacant lands and realize associated economic benefits like job creation and reduced commuting. Details proposed include exempting land with compliant interim uses like temporary parks.
The document discusses transportation options in Dubai, including air travel, the metro system, water taxis, buses, roads, and taxis. It provides details on Emirates airline, Dubai International Airport, the four lines of the Dubai Metro, abra water taxis, the public bus system, roads and taxis. It describes Dubai Taxis and some of the major taxi companies that operate under franchise agreements.
The document discusses whether the lifestyle in Dubai reflects sustainable development. It defines sustainable development and examines Dubai across economic, social, and environmental factors.
While Dubai has a diversified economy and tolerant society, it relies heavily on fossil fuels and expatriate workforce. To improve sustainability, the document proposes developing alternative energy sources, reducing reliance on benefits for citizens to join the workforce, expanding public transport powered by renewable energy, and providing citizenship options to long-term expatriate residents to promote a more cohesive society. The government recognizes the need for improvements and has outlined plans to make Dubai a global, pioneering hub in line with sustainable development.
The document discusses various topics related to sustainable urban planning in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. It provides details on Dubai's population growth, air quality and efforts to improve it, biodiversity conservation, waste management and recycling programs, transportation infrastructure like buses, taxis, and metro system, healthcare, education, green spaces, effects of climate change, food, and Dubai's economic base transitioning from oil to tourism. It also includes a spider chart comparing Dubai's performance in these sustainability factors.
The City Of Dubai And Its Current Status Of A World Class...Brianna Johnson
Dubai has rapidly developed into a global city and tourism hub through large-scale urbanization projects. The document discusses Dubai's rise through two perspectives: the political economy approach, which views the city as a site for capital accumulation and reshaping social relations, and the post-colonial approach, which sees Dubai addressing its colonial history and class struggles between Emiratis and migrant workers. While Dubai has achieved great economic success, its rapid growth has also led to inequality, loss of cultural heritage, and an unstable economy dependent on a single economic model.
The document provides an overview of Dubai's growth and development over time from the 1960s to present. It discusses how Dubai has transformed from a small trading port to a modern metropolis and global business and tourism hub through strategic investments in infrastructure like ports, airports, and buildings. It highlights Dubai's continued economic growth and diversification away from oil, as well as its popularity as a tourist destination receiving over 16 million visitors in 2016. The document argues that Dubai's strategic location, political stability, and business-friendly policies make it well-positioned for ongoing investment opportunities.
The document discusses Dubai's efforts to promote foreign direct investment through its foreign investment agency Dubai FDI. It outlines Dubai FDI's goals of managing and developing investment policies to create an attractive investment environment, supporting investors throughout the investment lifecycle, and making Dubai the preferred global investment destination. The document also highlights several factors that make Dubai a prime location for investment such as its business friendly government, world-class infrastructure and connectivity, strategic location, and vibrant business environment.
Sheik Mohammed al-Maktoum transformed Dubai from nothing into a highly successful vacation and business center in the Middle East. Through investments in infrastructure like real estate, ports, and tourism, Dubai has become a global economic hub. Dubai has no natural resources aside from limited oil, so its economy relies on trade, finance, and tourism. Sheik Mohammed's vision and policies that welcome foreign investment have led to rapid economic growth and development in Dubai.
Olivia Residences By Karma Developers -E-Brochure (1).pdf.pdfDubailuxuryPropertie
Olivia Residences By Karma Developers at Dubai Investment Park offers premium living spaces in a prime location in Dubai, combining luxury and convenience.
For More Info - www.dubaidevelopers.ae
Dubai Municipality plays a central role in developing Dubai into a livable and sustainable city under the directive of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. As the authority responsible for much of daily life in Dubai, it is committed to fulfilling the 2021 Dubai Plan's goal of creating a smart, sustainable city. Dubai Municipality has found solutions to sustainability challenges like designing public spaces and irrigation, which it will share in a December 2015 report following the Global Reporting Initiative framework. The report will outline Dubai Municipality's contributions to Dubai's economic, environmental and social progress and lay the groundwork for fully compliant future reports.
This document provides information about an event called "Opportunities Dubai 2013" being held by Scottish Development International (SDI). The event includes presentations from various organizations about opportunities in Dubai. SDI will discuss their global reach and how they help businesses with trade, inward investment, and providing support. Several other speakers will discuss topics like an overview of Dubai, doing business in Dubai, opportunities through The Links Group, and Aramex's operations in the Middle East. The agenda also lists upcoming trade missions and exhibitions that SDI is involved in related to Dubai and the Middle East.
Dubai's rapid economic expansion based on oil, real estate, and trade has led to unsustainable lifestyles among inhabitants dependent on fossil fuels. The government encourages consumption-focused individualism rather than environmentalism. Changes are needed at institutional and policy levels to incentivize sustainable behaviors and shift mindsets through campaigns, eco-friendly projects and regulations. Collaboration with Abu Dhabi, which has pioneered projects like the solar-powered Masdar City, could inspire Dubai to adopt similar sustainability initiatives.
Dubai has transformed rapidly through economic development focused on tourism, transportation, trade, construction and finance. Tourism numbers have more than doubled since 1999. However, Dubai relies heavily on expatriate workers, faces environmental sustainability challenges, and needs to strengthen its brand identity beyond superficial achievements to build deeper emotional connections and increase average length of stays. While Dubai offers unique experiences, its development model raises issues around inequality, lack of information transparency, and questionable sustainability practices.
This document provides an overview of Dubai's smart city initiatives and strategies. It discusses the key drivers of smart cities, including rapid urbanization. It outlines Dubai's population growth and challenges of increasing urbanization. Dubai's smart city strategy focuses on six areas (smart life, transportation, society, economy, governance, environment) and relies on communication, integration and cooperation. The document also summarizes several pillars of smart cities, such as telecom, transportation, healthcare, buildings, and others. It provides examples of Dubai's initiatives in areas like telecom, where it is expanding free public Wi-Fi access.
Dubailand is envisioned as Dubai's largest tourist attraction, but faces challenges in its development. A new strategy proposes extending the project's launch over 15 years in phases, with each phase/zone launched as its own complex. This would allow Dubailand to better manage expectations, recruit specialized talent, and ensure deadlines are met for each phase while maintaining the project's grandeur. Marketing efforts would sustain interest by promoting upcoming phases and a loyalty program would encourage repeat visits. Operational solutions like specialized training and intergovernmental cooperation on labor issues would also help address challenges.
1) Abu Dhabi's oil and gas wealth fueled Dubai's diversification strategy and major infrastructure projects, leading to the success of the Dubai International Financial Center (DIFC).
2) However, the DIFC showed lack of transparency, high credit risk, and overexposure to the real estate sector, leaving Dubai significantly in debt following the global financial crisis.
3) The debt crisis threatens Dubai's clusters and could negatively impact employment, economic growth, and investor confidence across the UAE if not properly addressed.
This document compares the historical development of Dubai and Las Vegas as tourist destinations. It outlines the key phases in each city's evolution, from initial growth driven by new infrastructure or laws, to periods of rapid expansion focused on entertainment and mega-resorts, to eventual overbuilding and economic downturns. Both cities transformed arid regions into global tourism hubs through ambitious development strategies centered around attracting visitors.
Unleashing the Human Potential_Exploring the Manpower Supply in Dubai_.pptxMagnum Plus
we will delve into the fascinating world of manpower supply in Dubai, understanding its significance, the factors contributing to its growth, and the challenges faced in sustaining a dynamic human capital landscape.
Visit website: https://magnumplus.ae/manpower-supply-services.php
The document discusses the benefits of exercise for mental health. Regular physical activity can help reduce anxiety and depression and improve mood and cognitive functioning. Exercise causes chemical changes in the brain that may help protect against mental illness and improve symptoms.
The document discusses establishing a construction firm in Dubai to supply manpower. It provides background on Dubai's history and economy. A PESTLE analysis notes factors like Islam playing a large role and elevated consumer inflation. Dubai is planning many infrastructure projects for Expo 2020, creating hundreds of thousands of jobs and requiring 500,000 additional construction workers. The document proposes establishing a construction firm to supply skilled and semi-skilled Indian labor to meet Dubai's manpower needs for Expo 2020 projects costing billions, like canals, islands, and new cities.
Over the past two decades, Dubai has experienced a remarkable real estate boom. Luxury properties have sprung up across this once-quiet port city, attracting buyers from around the world. But what drives the incredible demand for Dubai real estate? Several key factors explain the meteoric rise and continued popularity of Dubai real estate properties.
The document discusses transportation in the UAE. It notes that transportation plays a key role in economic development and that the UAE has recognized this in planning its cities. The UAE's modern transportation system was developed in the 1960s-1970s and now includes roads, ports, airports, and plans for high-speed rail. Major ports include Jebel Ali, the largest man-made harbor, and Khalifa Port. The UAE aims to expand airport and port infrastructure to support increasing trade and passenger traffic.
The Middle East Food Forum is a one-day conference that brings together food service business owners, operators, and entrepreneurs. The event features presentations, panel discussions, and workshops on key industry trends, challenges, and opportunities. Attendees can learn strategies for starting, sustaining, growing or transforming an F&B business. Speakers include experts from major hotel brands, restaurant companies, and government. The agenda covers topics such as cash flow management, food safety standards, concepts and menu innovation, franchising, and marketing. The conference aims to help participants stay competitive and find new ideas through learning and networking.
Retail Me Magazine - Saudi Grocery Market Set For Growth - October2012 Pg 42 46Vishal Pandey MSc 🎯
The Saudi grocery market was worth $22.3 billion in 2011 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4% to reach $28.2 billion by 2017. While hypermarkets and supermarkets now account for 44% of grocery sales, smaller stores still retain 56% of the market. The top retailers, such as Azizia Panda and Al Othaim, are expanding rapidly through new store development, with the goal of increasing their market share at the expense of smaller stores. Shopping habits in Saudi Arabia are becoming more western as consumers increasingly shop at large format stores for both grocery needs and entertainment.
More Related Content
Similar to Hospitality Magazine Ih How Sustainable Is Dubai, Issue 7 July 2007
The document provides an overview of Dubai's growth and development over time from the 1960s to present. It discusses how Dubai has transformed from a small trading port to a modern metropolis and global business and tourism hub through strategic investments in infrastructure like ports, airports, and buildings. It highlights Dubai's continued economic growth and diversification away from oil, as well as its popularity as a tourist destination receiving over 16 million visitors in 2016. The document argues that Dubai's strategic location, political stability, and business-friendly policies make it well-positioned for ongoing investment opportunities.
The document discusses Dubai's efforts to promote foreign direct investment through its foreign investment agency Dubai FDI. It outlines Dubai FDI's goals of managing and developing investment policies to create an attractive investment environment, supporting investors throughout the investment lifecycle, and making Dubai the preferred global investment destination. The document also highlights several factors that make Dubai a prime location for investment such as its business friendly government, world-class infrastructure and connectivity, strategic location, and vibrant business environment.
Sheik Mohammed al-Maktoum transformed Dubai from nothing into a highly successful vacation and business center in the Middle East. Through investments in infrastructure like real estate, ports, and tourism, Dubai has become a global economic hub. Dubai has no natural resources aside from limited oil, so its economy relies on trade, finance, and tourism. Sheik Mohammed's vision and policies that welcome foreign investment have led to rapid economic growth and development in Dubai.
Olivia Residences By Karma Developers -E-Brochure (1).pdf.pdfDubailuxuryPropertie
Olivia Residences By Karma Developers at Dubai Investment Park offers premium living spaces in a prime location in Dubai, combining luxury and convenience.
For More Info - www.dubaidevelopers.ae
Dubai Municipality plays a central role in developing Dubai into a livable and sustainable city under the directive of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. As the authority responsible for much of daily life in Dubai, it is committed to fulfilling the 2021 Dubai Plan's goal of creating a smart, sustainable city. Dubai Municipality has found solutions to sustainability challenges like designing public spaces and irrigation, which it will share in a December 2015 report following the Global Reporting Initiative framework. The report will outline Dubai Municipality's contributions to Dubai's economic, environmental and social progress and lay the groundwork for fully compliant future reports.
This document provides information about an event called "Opportunities Dubai 2013" being held by Scottish Development International (SDI). The event includes presentations from various organizations about opportunities in Dubai. SDI will discuss their global reach and how they help businesses with trade, inward investment, and providing support. Several other speakers will discuss topics like an overview of Dubai, doing business in Dubai, opportunities through The Links Group, and Aramex's operations in the Middle East. The agenda also lists upcoming trade missions and exhibitions that SDI is involved in related to Dubai and the Middle East.
Dubai's rapid economic expansion based on oil, real estate, and trade has led to unsustainable lifestyles among inhabitants dependent on fossil fuels. The government encourages consumption-focused individualism rather than environmentalism. Changes are needed at institutional and policy levels to incentivize sustainable behaviors and shift mindsets through campaigns, eco-friendly projects and regulations. Collaboration with Abu Dhabi, which has pioneered projects like the solar-powered Masdar City, could inspire Dubai to adopt similar sustainability initiatives.
Dubai has transformed rapidly through economic development focused on tourism, transportation, trade, construction and finance. Tourism numbers have more than doubled since 1999. However, Dubai relies heavily on expatriate workers, faces environmental sustainability challenges, and needs to strengthen its brand identity beyond superficial achievements to build deeper emotional connections and increase average length of stays. While Dubai offers unique experiences, its development model raises issues around inequality, lack of information transparency, and questionable sustainability practices.
This document provides an overview of Dubai's smart city initiatives and strategies. It discusses the key drivers of smart cities, including rapid urbanization. It outlines Dubai's population growth and challenges of increasing urbanization. Dubai's smart city strategy focuses on six areas (smart life, transportation, society, economy, governance, environment) and relies on communication, integration and cooperation. The document also summarizes several pillars of smart cities, such as telecom, transportation, healthcare, buildings, and others. It provides examples of Dubai's initiatives in areas like telecom, where it is expanding free public Wi-Fi access.
Dubailand is envisioned as Dubai's largest tourist attraction, but faces challenges in its development. A new strategy proposes extending the project's launch over 15 years in phases, with each phase/zone launched as its own complex. This would allow Dubailand to better manage expectations, recruit specialized talent, and ensure deadlines are met for each phase while maintaining the project's grandeur. Marketing efforts would sustain interest by promoting upcoming phases and a loyalty program would encourage repeat visits. Operational solutions like specialized training and intergovernmental cooperation on labor issues would also help address challenges.
1) Abu Dhabi's oil and gas wealth fueled Dubai's diversification strategy and major infrastructure projects, leading to the success of the Dubai International Financial Center (DIFC).
2) However, the DIFC showed lack of transparency, high credit risk, and overexposure to the real estate sector, leaving Dubai significantly in debt following the global financial crisis.
3) The debt crisis threatens Dubai's clusters and could negatively impact employment, economic growth, and investor confidence across the UAE if not properly addressed.
This document compares the historical development of Dubai and Las Vegas as tourist destinations. It outlines the key phases in each city's evolution, from initial growth driven by new infrastructure or laws, to periods of rapid expansion focused on entertainment and mega-resorts, to eventual overbuilding and economic downturns. Both cities transformed arid regions into global tourism hubs through ambitious development strategies centered around attracting visitors.
Unleashing the Human Potential_Exploring the Manpower Supply in Dubai_.pptxMagnum Plus
we will delve into the fascinating world of manpower supply in Dubai, understanding its significance, the factors contributing to its growth, and the challenges faced in sustaining a dynamic human capital landscape.
Visit website: https://magnumplus.ae/manpower-supply-services.php
The document discusses the benefits of exercise for mental health. Regular physical activity can help reduce anxiety and depression and improve mood and cognitive functioning. Exercise causes chemical changes in the brain that may help protect against mental illness and improve symptoms.
The document discusses establishing a construction firm in Dubai to supply manpower. It provides background on Dubai's history and economy. A PESTLE analysis notes factors like Islam playing a large role and elevated consumer inflation. Dubai is planning many infrastructure projects for Expo 2020, creating hundreds of thousands of jobs and requiring 500,000 additional construction workers. The document proposes establishing a construction firm to supply skilled and semi-skilled Indian labor to meet Dubai's manpower needs for Expo 2020 projects costing billions, like canals, islands, and new cities.
Over the past two decades, Dubai has experienced a remarkable real estate boom. Luxury properties have sprung up across this once-quiet port city, attracting buyers from around the world. But what drives the incredible demand for Dubai real estate? Several key factors explain the meteoric rise and continued popularity of Dubai real estate properties.
The document discusses transportation in the UAE. It notes that transportation plays a key role in economic development and that the UAE has recognized this in planning its cities. The UAE's modern transportation system was developed in the 1960s-1970s and now includes roads, ports, airports, and plans for high-speed rail. Major ports include Jebel Ali, the largest man-made harbor, and Khalifa Port. The UAE aims to expand airport and port infrastructure to support increasing trade and passenger traffic.
Similar to Hospitality Magazine Ih How Sustainable Is Dubai, Issue 7 July 2007 (20)
The Middle East Food Forum is a one-day conference that brings together food service business owners, operators, and entrepreneurs. The event features presentations, panel discussions, and workshops on key industry trends, challenges, and opportunities. Attendees can learn strategies for starting, sustaining, growing or transforming an F&B business. Speakers include experts from major hotel brands, restaurant companies, and government. The agenda covers topics such as cash flow management, food safety standards, concepts and menu innovation, franchising, and marketing. The conference aims to help participants stay competitive and find new ideas through learning and networking.
Retail Me Magazine - Saudi Grocery Market Set For Growth - October2012 Pg 42 46Vishal Pandey MSc 🎯
The Saudi grocery market was worth $22.3 billion in 2011 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4% to reach $28.2 billion by 2017. While hypermarkets and supermarkets now account for 44% of grocery sales, smaller stores still retain 56% of the market. The top retailers, such as Azizia Panda and Al Othaim, are expanding rapidly through new store development, with the goal of increasing their market share at the expense of smaller stores. Shopping habits in Saudi Arabia are becoming more western as consumers increasingly shop at large format stores for both grocery needs and entertainment.
Leisure Is a Focus of Riyadh’s Mall-Based Retail DevelopmentVishal Pandey MSc 🎯
The document discusses retail development in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Population growth and increased demand for international brands are driving demand for retail space. Several large mixed-use developments are planned or under construction on the northern periphery of Riyadh, including the King Abdullah Financial District and the International Training Center Complex. These developments will include offices, hotels, retail, and public spaces. Additional malls currently planned will increase the total retail space in Riyadh to 16.3 million square feet by 2015 to meet demand. Existing retail areas along main roads may decline as higher-quality new developments are built.
The document summarizes the results of a survey of retailers and mall owners/operators in the Middle East and North Africa region in 2011 on the challenges facing the retail industry. For retailers, the top 3 challenges in 2011 were uncertainties in the market, low consumer confidence, and the need for a more consumer-centric operating model. For mall owners, the top challenges in 2011 were increased competition from many new developments, retaining tenants, and controlling overhead costs. The survey aimed to track changes in the key challenges over time from 2007 to 2009 to 2011.
Greenbelts are designated areas of open land surrounding cities that are protected from development. They help control urban sprawl and maintain the separate identities of towns. Five Scottish cities show that greenbelts can be effective planning tools, though debates continue around allowing some development within them. Greenbelts are meant to guide growth, not prevent it entirely, and balance protecting the countryside with meeting housing and economic needs.
Trav Talk Middle East Saudi Inbound Tourism Potential Undiscovered Pg4 Nov...Vishal Pandey MSc 🎯
This document provides an overview of tourism development initiatives in Ras Al Khaimah (RAK), one of the emirates in the United Arab Emirates. Some of the key points include:
1) RAK is developing its tourism industry and aims to rival Dubai as a tourism hub in the near future through major hotel, resort, and infrastructure projects.
2) Over 20 new hotels with 350+ rooms each are planned over the next 5-10 years, including luxury beachfront resorts. A mountain resort and outdoor ski slope are also planned.
3) RAK is establishing economic free zones and industrial projects to boost its economy and support tourism growth. A new national airline, RAK Air
Trav Talk Middle East Saudi Inbound Tourism Potential Undiscovered Pg4 Nov...
Hospitality Magazine Ih How Sustainable Is Dubai, Issue 7 July 2007
1. InTernATIOnAL
How sustainable is
Dubai?
D
Dubai’s current ubai, one of the seven emirates that vision of ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al
image raises many constitute the United Arab Emirates Maktoum, who is said to run the country like a
(UAE), is attracting international Fortune 500 company. Dubai nationals make up
questions about its attention today as the commercial and less than 20 percent of the country’s population
economic, social, tourist hub of the Middle East. It has a number of – the rest are expatriates who work in Dubai – a
and environmental iconic structures, such as Burj Al Arab Hotel and situation seen as presenting a problem for the
the Palm Islands, as well as economic zones, such emirates’ sustainability.
future, reports as Dubai Internet City, Dubai Media City, Dubai Once all the developments – residential,
Vishal Pandey Academic City, and Dubailand. commercial, leisure, and mixed use – are
MIH Credited with signifying stability, security, and completed and inhabited by mostly non-UAE
peace in the region, Dubai has experienced an nationals, observers say it will be interesting to
economic and architectural boom in the past see how the diverse mix of expatriates, with their
15 years. Other Persian Gulf countries, at first own customs and values, blends with the much
suspicious of Dubai’s success, are now following its more conservative Dubai nationals.
example.Yet, Dubai’s image raises questions about Although Dubai is considered the most
its economic, social, and environmental future. forward thinking and liberal city in the Middle
The economic and construction boom Dubai is East, it is still likely to face challenges related to
witnessing today is not being driven locally, but this mix of cultures, observers say. The UAE ranks
by investors from overseas under the guidance 41st in terms of human development among
of the emirate’s government, following the 177 member countries of the United Nations,
34 HOSPITALITY ISSUE 7 | 2007 www.hospitalitymagazine.co.uk
2. InTernATIOnAL
according to the 2005 Human Development
Index Report, compiled by the United Nations
Development Program. Because of its economic
growth, the UAE has attracted large numbers of
people from all over the world, particularly from
Asia and Europe, who come to live, work, do
business, and invest in the country.
The UAE has urbanised rapidly over a
comparatively short time, with prominent cities
like Dubai expanding several times beyond
their original size in the 1980s and 1990s. Today,
Dubai features prominently on the global map of
emerging cities, and is now listed by some experts
among places considered “world cities”.
Sustainable development strategies in Dubai
are conceived and implemented by different
agencies, such as the Dubai Municipality, the
Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), the
Federal Environment Agency, and the ministries
of Economy, Environment and Water, Health,
Education and Energy. Each autonomously plans,
invests in, and executes activities in its specialty
area. Dubai’s economic success today is primarily Transportation
attributed to: Dubai is facing huge problems concerning traffic Although Dubai
the leadership and vision of various leaders, congestion, noise and air pollution, and road
such as the heads of the Dubai Municipality, safety. Traffic snarls are common. Sheikh Zayed
is considered the
the RTA, and the ministries, following the lead Road, one of the city’s main thoroughfares, for most forward
provided by Sheikh Mohammed; example, is subject to traffic jams at all hours of thinking and
the advanced level of administrative the day; the areas of Deira and Bur Dubai face
decentralisation and coordination; congestion as well.
liberal city in the
quick decision making and execution; Dubai Municipality reports that 470,000 Middle East, it is
the ability to fund developments through vehicles are registered in Dubai; this is in addition still likely to face
various means and channels; to the vehicles driven by residents of other
the slow and steady transition from an oil- emirates such as Sharjah and Abu Dhabi who
challenges related
based to a knowledge-based economy, with travel to Dubai for work. A minimum of two trips to this mix of
emphasis on services and education; per day translates to almost one million vehicles cultures
Brand Dubai, an image-creation effort on the roads – a figure very close to the present
promoted through events such as the Dubai population of 1.3 million. It is estimated
Dubai Shopping Festival and Dubai Summer that by 2020, Dubai’s population will climb to
Surprises, has increased the perception of the four million and the number of car trips to a
emirate as the safest destination in the Middle staggering 13.1 million per day.
East for tourism, commerce, and investment. While the population of Dubai grows at an
Along with success come challenges of average annual rate of 6.4 percent, the number of
sustainability. Among the challenges facing Dubai cars is rising by an average of 10 percent per year,
are the following: compared with a worldwide average of two to
inefficient transportation, road congestion, three percent.
and traffic accidents; The number of traffic accidents and fatalities
housing affordability, infrastructure needs, rose sharply in the first half of 2006, resulting in
and a rising cost of living; 156 deaths – or a death every 28 hours, compared
a manpower shortage and an inability to with a death every 36 hours in 2005. Dubai’s road
attract the best talent; congestion can be attributed to the affordability
a need to integrate different cultures and of cars, comparatively cheap fuel, and the almost
lifestyles; negligible availability of public transport.
educational needs; The main objectives of the RTA are to
pollution and waste management problems. integrate and streamline the city’s bus and
www.hospitalitymagazine.co.uk ISSUE 7 | 2007 HOSPITALITY 35
3. InTernATIOnAL
property in Dubai. This was seen as a landmark
Almost one million people a year are expected to move and has given residents, business owners,
and investors increased confidence in the city. The
join the Dubai population through 2010 government continues to invest in infrastructure.
DubaiMunicipality has indicated that its five-year
outlook includes $2 billion for roads and bridges,
water transportation systems, as well as the including a new 12-lane bridge across Dubai
rail system now under construction; to charge Creek; $300 million for drainage and irrigation
a single, flat fare for their use; and to make projects; and $700 million for public projects.
the transportation systems accessible to all To stabilise rents and accommodate population
potential users. Currently, 417 peak weekday growth, Dubai needs to expand its housing
bus schedules are run on 62 routes covering over inventory.
104,000 miles (168,000 km) in Dubai and nearby According to a report by Deutsche Bank,
emirates, carrying about 240,000 people per day published 8 December 2006, in the Emirates
– representing only 20 percent of Dubai’s entire Today newspaper, 92,000 residential units were to
population. be ready for occupancy by 2007 and an additional
The solution to Dubai’s congestion is widely 123,000 units will be ready by 2008. Many have
believed to be the Dubai Metro rail system, long speculated that the property market may
a project RTA is presently constructing at crash. However, the fact that almost one million
a reported cost of $4.2 billion. The project, people a year are expected to join the Dubai
commissioned in November 2005, is slated for population through 2010 may alone stabilise the
completion in phases in 2009 and 2010, at which buoyant residential property markets.
time it is expected to transport 1.85 million
passengers daily. The Metro rail is expected to Employment
ease congestion, cut travel time, reduce pollution, Dubai is facing major manpower issues.
and enhance mobility within the city by serving Expatriates comprise almost 80 percent of
all strategic areas of Dubai, with room provided Dubai’s workforce. There is a shortage of skills at
for expansion. the lower level and potentially a skewed social
Dubai also intends to implement policies such demographic. The annual Cost of Living Dubai
as toll roads to persuade people not to buy cars, Report, released in December 2006 by online
a goal achieved by Singapore. At the same time, recruitment firm GulfTalent.com, stated that high
land use strategies would need to provide for inflation and meager salary rises have resulted in
more mixed-use development with a housing expatriates, primarily blue-collar workers, going
element to enable people to live closer to work to more attractive work destinations or back to
and retail/entertainment areas, and thus reduce their home countries, particularly among those
long-distance travel. people from the Asian subcontinent.
However, the report also stated that Dubai
Housing, infrastructure, and cost of living continues to be the preferred destination for
As the Dubai Municipality prepares for a white-collar executives across the Middle East.
population of five million by 2020, a main On the flipside, the new freehold property law
challenge seems to be the rising cost of living. may transform Dubai from being a temporary
Over 2005 and 2006, rents increased 10 percent destination to a place where people settle
to as much as 100 percent; an official 15 percent indefinitely. This could lead to greater staff
cap on rent increases was imposed until the retention because employees would not be forced
end of 2006 to reduce the frenzy. Rent increases to seek higher-paying jobs to afford their annual
have caused a number of expatriates, particularly rent increases.
white-collar executives, to leave Dubai. Fuel
prices have also risen 30 percent since late 2005, Cultural integration
leading to ripple effects in costs for other services Dubai, with residents from nearly 200 countries,
and goods. These cost increases hurt the ability of has always been seen as a melting pot of creeds
companies to retain employees. and nationalities. But most people come to Dubai
In 2001, Dubai pioneered the concept of for work and feel little need to interact with
“freehold” property development, whereby those of different backgrounds. This is where the
expatriate residents of the UAE, as well as problem starts. Some observers point out that
residents elsewhere in the world, could purchase UAE nationals are difficult to know because of
36 HOSPITALITY ISSUE 7 | 2007 www.hospitalitymagazine.co.uk
4. InTernATIOnAL
cultural differences, whereas the UAE nationals
blame the expatriates for not making any effort
to get to know them, for not speaking Arabic,
and for not taking an interest in their culture,
tradition, and values.
An additional factor dividing the population is
the substantially higher pay offered to employees
from particular countries of origin. Until efforts
are made to integrate the various cultures
present, most observers believe that Dubai will
continue to be seen as a stopover – a place where
people spend a few years while making money
before returning to their homeland.
Education
A comprehensive network of government
schools, colleges, and universities has been
established throughout Dubai providing free
primary, secondary, and higher education to
UAE nationals. For expatriates, 85 private foreign
schools and more than 30 private universities
offer a high-quality education from British,
American, Indian, and Pakistani curricula. Arabic
is the language of instruction in UAE schools
and colleges; English is the main language of 90 percent of secondary-school graduates
instruction for the other schools and universities.
Dubai has one of the highest rates of
enter a university, which has led to increased
admission to higher education in the Middle investment in institutions of higher education
East: 90 percent of secondary-school graduates
enter a university, which has led to increased
investment in institutions of higher education.
However, the Ministry of Education’s 2020 emissions violations have caused pollution levels
strategy for future educational development to exceed UAE government limits by 13 to 25
in Dubai and the UAE takes into account only percent. The UAE has one of the world’s highest
schooling for UAE nationals. There are still levels of domestic waste. Per-capita household
more jobs than qualified workers, a situation waste has reached an annual average of 725 kg
that is not expected to improve in the short in Dubai and 730 kg in Abu Dhabi. In the United
term. The key to solving this problem, observers States, the average is 710 kg; in Australia, 690 kg;
say, is to retain expatriate talent and to reform and in the UK, 300 kg.
the region’s education sector. The quality of Additional refuse comes from street litter,
education is high for nationals, but they need to gardens, and from the waste dumped on
be persuaded to take up studies. beaches and in the sea. This has imposed a heavy
Now, however, a new breed of young nationals burden on the municipalities. The problem is
is emerging that is motivated to take up careers only partly solved by converting organic waste
in government and the private sector. For the into agricultural fertiliser. Some waste, such as
long term, the solution lies in sustained efforts paper, glass, and tin cans, can be recycled, and
to properly educate the local nationals who special incinerators have been set up to dispose
are country’s future. This would be in line with of medical waste. A law aimed at reducing air
Dubai’s strategy of transforming itself into a pollution was passed in March 1999. Developed
knowledge-based economy. in consultation with the municipalities, the
regulations limit excessive use of harmful fuels.
Pollution and Waste Management New regulations are also under discussion for
Dubai’s air pollution has continually worsened, controlling the use of leaded fuel.
with vehicles contributing almost 80 percent of The UAE and Dubai enforce strict laws governing
the pollution. Between 1999 and 2003, vehicle the use of chemical insecticides in agriculture
www.hospitalitymagazine.co.uk ISSUE 7 | 2007 HOSPITALITY 37
5. InternatIonal
in order to protect public health and reduce Dubai has been aggressive about safeguarding the
Vishal Pandey MIH lived and environmental damage. The import of 57 chemical gulf’s marine life and not allowing the release of
worked in various capacities
insecticides has been banned; only products already industrial waste directly into the sea.
across operations, sales,
marketing, and revenue licensed for use in agriculture in the United States, While a consensus exists that sustainable urban
management in Hilton/Oberoi Canada, Japan, and the EU are allowed. development is a desirable goal that countries,
Hotels and Resorts and Taj The UAE and Dubai have also refused to license regions, cities, and towns should commit to,
Hotels Places and Resorts in the manufacture of chemical insecticides within the considerable confusion remains on how to
Dubai before moving to
UAE. Wherever possible, natural control methods translate this broad objective into national and
Glasgow, Scotland, in
September 2006 to study for are employed. In Dubai, for example, chemical local strategies. Sustainable development comes
his Master of Science degree in pesticides were recently replaced with a product about through planning, proper execution, and
real estate and regeneration at made from the common local neem tree that has control of the built environment.
the University of Glasgow. the properties of a natural pesticide. The plant’s For Dubai to become more sustainable, it needs
seeds are powdered and mixed with water so that to improve city planning, increase the social
the active ingredient can be sprayed in parks and cohesion of its diverse residents, find ways to
other landscaped areas. better attract and retain talent, provide efficient
The Persian Gulf is a sensitive marine ecosystem. public transit, and provide affordable housing.
The effects of industrial pollution and oil spills To become sustainable in the long run, Dubai
on the marine environment require coastal needs to responsibly manage its present and plan
conservation. The major sources of sea pollution efficiently for its future – before it is too late.
are ships; land-based sources; dumping from ships
and aircraft; exploration and exploitation of the
How sustainable is Dubai? was written by Vishal Pandey MIH
seabed, the continental shelf, and the subsoil; and for Urban Land June 2007. Reprinted with permission of ULI,
other human activities. In the past couple of years, July 10 2007.
38 HOSPITALITY ISSUE 7 | 2007 www.hospitalitymagazine.co.uk