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The Impact of Urban Landscape Design on User Well-being in Deira and Al Quoz, Dubai, UAE

Part 1 Dissertation 2025
Janae Jordan
Heriot Watt University - Dubai Campus | UAE
Dubai's swift urbanisation has led to the development of varied and contrasting urban landscapes, raising critical questions about how such environments support or hinder residents’ everyday well-being. This dissertation investigates the impact of urban landscape design on user well-being across two distinct districts: Deira and Al Quoz, focusing on public spaces, market areas, and pedestrian pathways.

Using a site-based observational study guided by theoretical frameworks, the research examines four key locations: Union Square, Al Khail Gate Park, the Gold Souk, and Al Quoz Bus Station. The study draws on the work of Jan Gehl, Esther Sternberg, Kevin Lynch, Stephen and Rachel Kaplan, and Emily Talen to explore themes of healing environments, spatial legibility, human-centred design, and social inclusivity.

Findings show that Deira’s cultural authenticity promotes social cohesion and psychological comfort, while Al Quoz’s modern infrastructure enhances physical access but often lacks human-centred sensitivity. The dissertation concludes with practical design recommendations to improve urban liveability, such as increasing vegetation, enhancing pedestrian flow, and embedding sensory-rich experiences. By bridging traditional and contemporary design approaches, this research advocates for urban landscapes that place well-being at the forefront of sustainable city development.


Tutor(s)
Shameel Muhammed
2025
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