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Hi Dubai
16-05-2025
- Health
- Hi Dubai
Discover how Dubai is using AI, design, and psychology to create public spaces that respond to mood and reshape urban living.
Dubai has long been known for its skyscrapers, iconic developments, and rapid modernization, but underneath the surface of its glittering skyline lies a more subtle ambition: to build a city that understands how people feel. As global cities experiment with ways to improve quality of life through infrastructure, a growing body of research suggests that urban design isn't just functional—it's emotional. What if public spaces could reduce anxiety? What if a sidewalk could help ease your mind? These questions are at the heart of a new movement where psychology meets city planning. Around the world, urban planners and behavioral scientists are exploring how the built environment shapes emotional states. Cities like Copenhagen and Singapore are investing in emotionally responsive infrastructure design that uses light, layout, sound, and space to gently influence mood. Dubai, with its vision for futuristic living, has emerged as one of the most ambitious test beds for this idea. From AI-powered street lighting in City Walk that adapts to pedestrian flow and time of day, to green corridors and shaded walkways in the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan aimed at reducing daily stress, the city is increasingly framing design as a psychological tool. Public art installations under Dubai Culture's 'Art in Public Spaces' initiative are transforming metro stations into emotionally resonant spaces, while sensory-conscious buildings like Al Safa Art & Design Library offer quiet zones that prioritize mental well-being in a high-stimulation city. Can architecture influence how we feel on a daily basis? And more importantly, can a city learn to predict our moods through design alone? As Dubai moves forward with urban planning projects rooted in emotional impact, the answers to these questions are no longer speculative. In this article, we explore how public design experiments in Dubai are shaping not only the city—but the emotional experience of living in it. The Global Concept of 'Emotional Cities': Where Psychology Meets Urban Planning The idea that a city can influence—or even predict—human emotion is not a futuristic fantasy. It's a growing area of research called urban affective science, which studies how the physical structure of cities affects psychological states. In recent years, projects across Europe, North America, and Asia have turned city spaces into real-time laboratories for emotional insight. A leading example is the Emotional Cities project, a research initiative funded by the European Union's Horizon 2020 programme. Launched in 2021, it explores how urban environments impact mental health by measuring citizens' emotional responses using biometric sensors, heart rate monitors, and spatial data. The project partners with city governments and research labs to test how different parts of a city affect stress, relaxation, and focus. One of its central goals is to guide urban policy through scientifically gathered emotional data, not assumptions. Similarly, the MIT Senseable City Lab, in partnership with cities like Singapore and London, has explored how public mood can be mapped using passive data collection methods such as geolocation patterns, mobile phone usage, and social media sentiment. In one project, 'Live Singapore!', the lab created a real-time dashboard that tracked how people responded to different parts of the city using crowdsourced information. Their work shows how urban infrastructure, when paired with behavioral data, can become a mirror for public emotion. Underlying these studies is a principle called affective design—an approach that considers how light, sound, material, texture, temperature, and space affect emotional states. It's the reason many cities are experimenting with tunable street lighting, calming soundscapes, and open layouts that reduce visual clutter. This design philosophy draws from environmental psychology and neuroscience, linking specific environmental triggers to emotional reactions like calmness, joy, anxiety, or alertness. In several cities, facial expression analysis and emotion-detection algorithms have also been tested in limited pilot zones. These systems, often based on AI-driven computer vision, can identify general emotional states like stress or contentment by analyzing micro-expressions in public spaces. While still controversial due to privacy concerns, these technologies are pushing the boundaries of how urban environments might one day 'read' the mood of their users and respond accordingly. This global momentum toward emotion-aware cities creates a strong foundation for understanding Dubai's own interest in psychologically responsive design. With its technological infrastructure and fast-paced urban evolution, the city is uniquely positioned to explore how design choices—like adaptive lighting, art placement, and spatial fluidity—can influence the everyday emotional experiences of residents and visitors. Dubai's Push for Human-Centric Design: A Smart City with Emotional Intelligence Dubai's transformation into a smart city isn't solely about integrating advanced technologies; it's fundamentally about enhancing the human experience. The city's initiatives aim to create environments that not only function efficiently but also resonate emotionally with its inhabitants. The Smart Dubai 2021 strategy exemplifies this vision. Launched by the Dubai Government, it focuses on leveraging technology to improve the quality of life for residents. The strategy encompasses various sectors, including transportation, infrastructure, and urban planning, all designed to foster a more connected and responsive urban environment. Central to this human-centric approach is the Dubai Future Foundation, which spearheads innovative projects to anticipate and shape the city's future. One of its notable initiatives is the Dubai Design Lab, an action lab dedicated to reimagining and prototyping policies and systems that prioritize livability and well-being. By harnessing design and creativity, the lab seeks to position Dubai among the world's most livable cities. Incorporating artificial intelligence (AI) into urban infrastructure is another facet of Dubai's strategy. The city employs AI-driven systems to analyze data from various sources, enabling real-time responses to the needs of its citizens. For instance, AI is utilized to monitor traffic patterns and adjust signals accordingly, enhancing road safety and reducing congestion . Moreover, Dubai has implemented tools like the Happiness Meter, a city-wide initiative that captures real-time feedback on public services. This system allows residents to express their satisfaction levels, providing the government with valuable insights to improve service delivery and, by extension, the overall mood of the city. Through these integrated efforts, Dubai exemplifies how a city can evolve into a responsive entity that not only meets the functional needs of its residents but also nurtures their emotional well-being. Designing for Mood: Examples from Dubai's Public Spaces Designing for Mood: Examples from Dubai's Public Spaces Dubai's urban landscape is a testament to the city's commitment to creating environments that not only serve functional purposes but also enhance the emotional well-being of its residents and visitors. Through thoughtful integration of technology, art, and nature, Dubai's public spaces are crafted to positively influence mood and foster a sense of community. Urban Lighting and Temperature Control In areas like City Walk and Downtown Boulevard, Dubai has implemented smart lighting systems that adjust brightness and color temperature based on the time of day and pedestrian activity. These adaptive lighting solutions aim to create a comfortable and inviting atmosphere, reducing glare and enhancing visibility during nighttime hours. Such lighting not only improves safety but also contributes to a more relaxed and pleasant urban experience. Public Art Installations and Color Psychology The Dubai Metro stations have been transformed into dynamic art spaces under the "Art in Public Spaces" initiative by Dubai Culture. These installations incorporate vibrant colors and culturally significant themes, turning transit areas into engaging environments. The use of specific color palettes and artistic designs is intended to evoke positive emotions, reduce stress, and make daily commutes more enjoyable. Green Spaces and Soundscapes Developments like Al Barari, Dubai Hills, and Burj Park offer lush green environments amidst the urban setting. These areas are designed with an emphasis on natural elements, including diverse plant life and water features, to create tranquil spaces for relaxation and recreation. The presence of greenery and natural soundscapes, such as flowing water and bird songs, has been shown to reduce anxiety and promote mental restoration, providing a peaceful retreat from the city's hustle. Case Study: The Role of AI in Predicting Public Mood Dubai is at the forefront of integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into its urban infrastructure, aiming to enhance the emotional well-being of its residents through innovative technologies. The city has embarked on several initiatives that utilize AI for mood detection and emotional analysis in public spaces. Facial Recognition and AI for Mood Detection Dubai has implemented facial recognition technology in various sectors, including airports and government buildings, to streamline processes and enhance security. These systems are capable of analyzing facial expressions to detect emotions, providing insights into the public's mood. Such technologies are part of pilot projects aiming to create responsive environments that can adapt to the emotional states of individuals. Emotion-Sensing Kiosks in Government Buildings The city has introduced smart kiosks equipped with AI capabilities in government buildings. These kiosks can analyze users' facial expressions and provide services accordingly, aiming to improve user experience by responding to emotional cues. This initiative reflects Dubai's commitment to leveraging technology to enhance public services and citizen satisfaction. AI Ethics and Data Governance Frameworks Recognizing the importance of ethical considerations in AI deployment, Dubai has established comprehensive guidelines to govern the use of AI technologies. The Smart Dubai initiative has developed the Ethical AI Toolkit, which outlines principles for fairness, transparency, and accountability in AI systems. These guidelines ensure that AI applications, including those for mood detection, respect privacy and are implemented responsibly. Through these initiatives, Dubai demonstrates a proactive approach to integrating AI into urban planning, focusing on creating environments that are not only efficient but also emotionally attuned to the needs of its residents. Why Mood-Based Design Matters in a City Like Dubai Dubai's rapid transformation into a global metropolis has brought unique challenges and opportunities in urban planning, particularly concerning the emotional well-being of its residents. The city's diverse population, extreme climate, and fast-paced development necessitate a focus on mood-based design to enhance the quality of urban life. With over 80% of its population comprising expatriates from various cultural backgrounds, Dubai is a melting pot of traditions, lifestyles, and expectations. This multicultural fabric requires urban spaces that cater to a wide range of emotional and social needs. Studies have highlighted the importance of designing neighborhoods that foster social cohesion among diverse communities, emphasizing the role of physical layout and built form in promoting interactions and a sense of belonging. The city's harsh climate, characterized by soaring temperatures often exceeding 50°C in summer, significantly impacts outdoor activities and public space usage. This extreme heat can lead to increased stress levels and a preference for indoor environments, underscoring the need for climate-responsive urban design. Incorporating shaded walkways, green spaces, and cooling elements can mitigate thermal discomfort and promote outdoor engagement. Dubai's rapid urbanization and economic growth have led to high-density developments and increased traffic congestion, contributing to urban stress. The city's infrastructure must adapt to these pressures by integrating efficient public transportation, pedestrian-friendly pathways, and accessible amenities to alleviate the psychological strain associated with urban living. To address these challenges, Dubai has embraced smart city initiatives that leverage real-time data to inform urban planning. By analyzing patterns in public space usage, transportation, and environmental conditions, planners can design spaces that respond to the emotional and physical needs of residents. This data-driven approach enables the creation of adaptive environments in malls, metro stations, and parks that enhance comfort, accessibility, and overall well-being. In summary, mood-based design in Dubai is not merely an aesthetic consideration but a strategic imperative. By acknowledging and addressing the emotional impacts of its diverse population, extreme climate, and urban dynamics, the city can foster environments that promote mental health, social cohesion, and a higher quality of life for all its inhabitants. As Dubai integrates artificial intelligence (AI) into its urban infrastructure to enhance public services and citizen experiences, it faces critical ethical considerations, particularly concerning mood-based design and emotion recognition technologies. Balancing Innovation and Privacy Dubai's deployment of AI-driven facial recognition and emotion detection systems aims to improve efficiency and personalization in various sectors, including transportation, healthcare, and public services. However, these technologies raise significant privacy concerns. The collection and analysis of biometric data, such as facial expressions, necessitate stringent data protection measures to prevent misuse and unauthorized access. Ensuring that individuals are aware of and consent to the use of their biometric data is paramount to maintaining public trust. Addressing Algorithmic Bias Emotion recognition algorithms can inadvertently perpetuate biases if not properly trained on diverse datasets. For instance, variations in facial expressions across different cultures can lead to misinterpretations of emotions, resulting in unfair treatment or discrimination. It is essential to develop and continuously refine AI models to recognize and respect cultural nuances, thereby ensuring equitable outcomes for all demographic groups. Ethical Frameworks and Governance To navigate these challenges, Dubai has established comprehensive ethical guidelines for AI deployment. The Smart Dubai initiative has introduced the Ethical AI Toolkit, which outlines principles for the responsible use of AI technologies. These principles emphasize fairness, transparency, accountability, and respect for privacy. By adhering to these guidelines, developers and policymakers can ensure that AI applications align with societal values and human rights. Community Engagement and Transparency Beyond technical safeguards, fostering an open dialogue with the community is crucial. Engaging citizens in discussions about the purposes, benefits, and risks of emotion recognition technologies can lead to more informed and accepted implementations. Transparency in how data is collected, used, and protected empowers individuals and reinforces the legitimacy of AI initiatives. In conclusion, while mood-based design and emotion recognition technologies offer promising avenues for enhancing urban living in Dubai, they must be approached with a careful balance of innovation and ethical responsibility. By prioritizing privacy, addressing algorithmic biases, adhering to robust ethical frameworks, and engaging with the community, Dubai can lead in creating a smart city that respects and uplifts the emotional well-being of its residents. In a world increasingly shaped by data, the idea of a city that can read your mood is no longer science fiction—it's a matter of strategy. But while Dubai is investing in sensors, AI, and real-time feedback to better understand how people feel in public spaces, the deeper question remains: can emotion ever be fully measured, or simply acknowledged and respected? Human emotion is fluid, layered, and often unspoken. Predictive technologies might detect a frown or lowered energy in a crowd, but they can't always trace it back to its cause—was it the traffic, the heat, a lack of green space, or something far more personal? Dubai's approach suggests that even if a city can't predict mood with perfect accuracy, it can still respond with empathy. From shaded pedestrian paths and emotionally aware lighting to public art that invites reflection, the city is experimenting with ways to make urban life feel less mechanical and more mindful. And in doing so, it's introducing a new paradigm—where emotional well-being becomes a measurable design goal, not just an afterthought. So perhaps the real shift isn't in creating a city that knows exactly how you feel. It's in building one that constantly listens, adapts, and creates space for emotional connection to thrive. In this way, Dubai may not just be designing for happiness—it may be defining what it means for cities to care. Also read: Dubai Municipality Drives Major Urban Transformation with Focus on Sustainability and Smart Services Dubai Municipality is ushering in a new era of urban development, blending sustainable infrastructure, digital innovation, and community-focused services to elevate the city's livability and resilience The Future of Business in Dubai: What the 2040 Urban Master Plan Means for You Dubai has always been synonymous with progress and innovation, but with the ambitious 2040 Urban Master Plan, the city is set to transform into a global powerhouse like never before. Discover how Dubai's strategic plans will shape the future of business development in the years to come. Dubai Opens Registration for Global Self-Driving Transport Congress Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has officially opened registration for the fourth edition of the Dubai World Congress for Self-Driving Transport, scheduled for 24–25 September 2025. Hamdan bin Mohammed Launches Barwa Programme to Empower Senior Citizens, People of Determination in Dubai Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has launched the 'Barwa' programme, a pioneering initiative by the Dubai Land Department and Community Development Authority aimed at supporting senior citizens and People of Determination.
Mid East Info
28-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Mid East Info
Dubai Culture Celebrates Burj Rashid with Panel Discussion and Workshop - Middle East Business News and Information
Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) has announced a public programme accompanying the Burj Rashid exhibition, an initiative under the Dubai Quality of Life Strategy. Organised by Dubai Culture to commemorate the 45 th anniversary of the tower's inauguration, the exhibition marks the first edition of the Dubai Series, which celebrates the emirate through tributes that highlight its inspiring stories. The programme will take place on 30 April at the Al Safa Art & Design Library and aims to emphasise the significance of the exhibition, which was supported by the Sikka Platform. It includes a panel discussion titled 'Burj Rashid: A Landmark Reimagined Into Art,' moderated by architect Amal Anoohi. The session will feature artist Dr Ahmad AlAttar, founder of REALIITY, designer and artist Sara Al Khayyal, and artist and consultant Patricia Millns FRSA. They will discuss how they reinterpreted Burj Rashid's architectural identity through their artistic practices and delve into the role of contemporary art in preserving and reimagining Dubai's heritage. In parallel, illustrator, urban sketcher, and travel blogger Priya Krishnan Das will lead a workshop 'Burj Rashid: Unlock Your Creativity and Sketch the Icon!' Participants will explore ways to capture the tower's striking design and unique features through their own creative interpretations. The Burj Rashid exhibition—open until 2 May—presents works by around 30 artists from the UAE and beyond. Their contributions offer a range of artistic representations of the tower as an iconic symbol, enriching Dubai's cultural identity, historical narrative, and the everyday experiences of its residents.
Emirates 24/7
02-04-2025
- Lifestyle
- Emirates 24/7
School of Life Celebrates Languages and Launches Phase 2 of the Creative Impact Track
Dubai Culture is presenting a series of public workshops through its 'School of Life' initiative under the Dubai Quality of Life Strategy. Taking place in Al Safa Art & Design Library, Al Twar Public Library, Al Mankhool Public Library, and Hatta Public Library, the initiative offers a diverse range of activities aimed at building life skills for all, enabling them to explore Dubai's distinctive creative scene. This contributes to fostering a sustainable creative ecosystem that enriches skills, enhances capabilities, and encourages community participation in the cultural and artistic sectors. In April 2025, 'School of Life' will present a rich programme of discussions and interactive workshops under the theme 'Celebrating Languages', featuring its innovative clubs, including Wellness & Nutrition, Chess, Family Developing, Language, Career, Art, and Calligraphy, in addition to a series of educational sessions within the Creative Impact Track that was launched by the Authority as part of the Calligraphy Club, within the Dubai Calligraphy Biennale, alongside the Photography & Cinema Club, organised in collaboration with Canon and Reporters. The programme will include 37 interactive sessions covering topics such as voice-over techniques, photography, impactful content creation, achieving psychological and physical balance, enterprise resource planning, and more. This provides a dynamic space for creativity, encouraging the exchange of ideas and experiences among participants. To explore the programme and register, click here. Follow Emirates 24|7 on Google News.
Mid East Info
05-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Mid East Info
Dubai Culture Unveils a Ramadan Edition of School of Life - Middle East Business News and Information
Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) is providing an educational and entertaining environment for all members of the community through its School of Life initiative, which carries the theme 'Ramadan: The Month of Giving' this March. The initiative will feature 18 interactive sessions and workshops across its Impact and Creative Tracks along with innovative clubs, covering topics such as scientific research, professional skill development, critical and creative thinking, vertical farming, and the aesthetics of Arabic and ancient Filipino calligraphy, as well as the Emirati dialect. The Dubai Public Library branches will also celebrate Ramadan through a series of artistic and entertainment performances, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the spiritual atmosphere of the holy month. Visitors to Al Safa Art & Design Library will have the opportunity to apply foundational concepts to create original artwork inspired by simplified landscapes, using mixed media techniques through the 'Art Colour and Texture' workshop led by Benedicte Gimonnet as part of the Art Club. Meanwhile, the Pilates Academy will offer a ladies-only Pilates class focused on enhancing strength and flexibility. As part of the Career Club under the Creative Track, Al Safa Art and Design Library is also the venue for two workshops that empower participants to develop their professional skills in various fields and present these creative ideas and projects interactively. The Dubai Foundation for Women and Children will have a workshop titled 'Jewellery Renovation' workshop for children aged 4 to 12, teaching them to recycle old pieces into new, creative designs. Participants will learn to select stones, combine colours, and add details to transform their jewellery. Al Mankhool Library is hosting the Chess Club session 'Think Like a Champion' by the Chess Academy, where those aged 6 and above can get to know the secrets of strategic thinking and how to plan ahead and make smart decisions that lead to success, while Gino Banola will tutor the 'Baybayin Calligraphy on Umbrella' workshop, giving participants a platform to be taught to design their own umbrella using the ancient Filipino script. The Baseet educational-scientific organisation, under the STEM Club's Impact Track, will offer a 'Scientific Research and Sustainable Solutions' workshop in Al Twar Library, where learners will explore how to conduct scientific research, use artificial intelligence to create sustainable solutions, and apply these skills in preparation for participating in international scientific competitions, thereby enhancing critical and creative thinking to address global challenges. As part of the 'Ramadan Nights' Festival, across Dubai Culture's cultural and heritage sites, Al Safa Art & Design Library will showcase a diverse lineup of artistic performances, including oud music, puppet theatre, and shadow plays. The programme includes interactive and creative workshops where participants can engage in ancient Filipino calligraphy, palm frond weaving, traditional Emirati incense and perfume making, and traditional Emirati fashion design. Meanwhile, Hatta Public Library will bring people together for a special Ramadan night, combining a communal Iftar gathering with Ramadan storytelling sessions, as well as a variety of cultural and entertainment activities tailored to empower People of Determination in celebrating the holy month.
Mid East Info
04-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Mid East Info
Ramadan Nights Festival Embraces Essence of the Holy Month - Middle East Business News and Information - mid-east.info
Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) has announced the return of its 'Ramadan Nights' Festival, aimed at showcasing the values, customs, and traditions that define the local community during Ramadan. The diverse programme allows residents and visitors to fully immerse themselves in the spirit of the blessed month. This initiative aligns with the Authority's commitment to social responsibility and supports the 'Ramadan in Dubai' campaign, launched by Brand Dubai, the creative arm of the Government of Dubai Media Office, in partnership with several government and private entities to highlight the wide range of events taking place across the emirate throughout the season. The festival's agenda includes performances and engaging experiences that celebrate Emirati traditions, hosted at various sites under the Authority's management. Among these venues is Al Shindagha Museum, the UAE's largest heritage museum, which welcomes visitors from 14 to 23 March to engage in immersive cultural activities. The Al Maktoum Courtyard will host workshops, including 'Jewellery Design' and 'Misbaha Making,' where participants will learn how to create misbahas using beads, wood, and precious stones. Additionally, they can participate in 'Dukhoon Making,' blending unique fragrances, as well as several workshops in cooperation with The Knot, including 'Candle Making' and 'Lantern Decoration,' working with different painting techniques. Meanwhile, Etihad Museum will present three creative workshops every Friday evening during the first three weeks of Ramadan. These include 'Scent and Synesthesia' in partnership with Oo La Lab, 'Tablescaping and Poetry,' which focuses on the art of table arrangement inspired by Arabic poetry, and 'Contemporary Henna,' which reinterprets regional and historical henna designs through a modern lens. Additionally, guests can explore permanent and temporary exhibitions and learn about the Union's formation and key milestones in UAE history. On 14 March, Al Safa Art & Design Library will host a poetry evening featuring a diverse lineup of poets, including Ahmed Al Asem, Amal Al Sahlawi, Najat Al Dhaheri, Musab Biroutieh, and Dareen Shubair, who will recite selections from their latest poetry collections, accompanied by oud player Yasser Rashad. On 15 March, Al Safa Art & Design Library will also feature a vibrant selection of artistic performances, including oud music, puppet theatre, and shadow play, alongside interactive creative workshops. Participants will have the opportunity to appreciate the beauty of ancient Filipino script, refine their skills in palm frond weaving, delve into the art of dukhoon and perfumery, and a prayer rug-making workshop for children. The library will also feature a diverse selection of Emirati fashion design boutiques and F&B vendors. The 'Ramadan Nights' programme at Hatta Heritage Village, running from 5 to 15 March, will offer a range of heritage showcases celebrating the culture of Hatta. Visitors can attend cultural and religious lectures, organised in collaboration with the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department, and enjoy Dubai Police's K9 demonstrations alongside the 'Officer Mansour and Officer Amina' show. Additionally, Dubai Civil Defense will lead awareness sessions, complemented by the 'Salem' puppet show. 'Bo Tabela' performances will also take place in partnership with the Department of Economy and Tourism in Dubai, alongside a traditional market featuring handcrafted works by local artisans. As part of the festival, Dubai Culture, in cooperation with the Dubai Club for People of Determination, will present a Ramadan programme tailored for the club's students, aimed at developing their skills and fostering creativity. This includes a series of interactive sessions covering handicrafts, perfumery, candle making, the art of dukhoon, and Arabic calligraphy, supervised by Dubai Culture's team across its various sites. Furthermore, throughout the holy month, Dubai Culture will hold the sixth edition of its humanitarian initiative, 'Ramadan Heroes,' in partnership with the Emirates Red Crescent and talabat UAE. This drive encourages community members to contribute by donating iftar meals, food parcels, Eid clothing, and Zakat Al Fitr through the Ramadan Heroes virtual charity on talabat UAE. Aid will be securely and promptly delivered to beneficiaries in coordination with Emirates Red Crescent teams.
