ANNUAL CONGRESS 2025

From Urban Isolation to Inclusive Communities: Planning for Social Sustainability in Dubai's Labour Housing Districts

Not scheduled

20m

Yildiz Technical University, Istanbul

Poster Track 07 | INCLUSION

Speaker

Ms Anoushka Kolahalu

Description

The rapid urbanisation of the UAE, across the past three decades, is attributed to the significant migration from the South Asian subcontinent. This influx in population served the burgeoning construction industry in development of high-rise structures and landmarks of star-architects. While this growth has shaped the city, it has also given rise to densely populated labour housing districts such as Al Muhaisnah 2, home to approximately 110,000 residents. These housing districts exemplify the challenges faced by South Asian workers, including overcrowded housing, inadequate infrastructure, limited access to education, and urban isolation from the city’s wider socio-economic opportunities.

This paper explores strategies to address these challenges by fostering socio-economic integration, mitigating environmental issues, and improving living conditions for residents of labour housing districts. It advocates for the strategic implementation of housing rights to combat overcrowding and incentivise financial independence, alongside enforcing minimum wage regulations and repurposing existing buildings to develop skills-training programmes. Mobility-focused interventions—such as reconnecting the district to metro and road networks, enhancing pathways for cyclists and pedestrians, and introducing biodiversity in transitional spaces—address isolation, improve safety, and cool micro-climatic conditions.

A comprehensive urban analysis, involving daily site visits, surveys, and open discussions with residents, highlights the lack of connectivity and communal spaces within Al Muhaisnah 2. To bridge these gaps, the paper proposes creating vibrant gathering spaces for cricket, markets, cafés, and cultural events, supported by urban furniture, service zones for street vendors, and street lighting. These delicate interventions celebrate the cultural identity of the predominantly South Asian community by integrating their social traditions, such as ‘chai’ time and cricket, into the urban fabric.

By emphasising sensitive urban design interventions, embracing the UN SDG 11 for Cities, public space enhancements, and local initiatives, this research advocates for a paradigm shift towards socially, economically, and environmentally inclusive planning. Prioritising social sustainability and the right to belong, these strategies aim to empower residents through improved street environments, supportive housing, and opportunities for entrepreneurship and independence. This paper offers a holistic approach to addressing the diverse needs of ongoing and increasing migration within Dubai’s labour housing districts, providing valuable lessons in urban inclusion and equity.

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