Dubai plans a new tech district to be a vibrant laboratory for innovation and urban technology

 Dubai plans a new tech district to be a vibrant laboratory for innovation and urban technology

A new urban technical district is planned for the creekside of the Al Jaddaf area in Dubai. Developed by URB, the district aims to create over 4,000 jobs in urban technologies, education and training, as well as welcoming entrepreneurs to foster a collaborative tech ecosystem. The district will provide facilities for training, research, conferences, business incubation, shared-desk spaces and dedicated offices. It will also be home to an Urban Technical Institute, which hopes to foster innovation by investing in applied research and enabling public-private partnerships.

The concept behind the development revolves around the idea that such innovation and research centers can inform the development of cities of the future. The tech-enabled urban district seeks to provide solutions to challenges in food availability, energy production, water harvesting and zero-waste management. It aims to develop more equitable living conditions by integrating technologies into the planning of cities while addressing the environmental challenges and threats of climate change.

The development is planned to be a net zero-carbon district, while also helping partner businesses reduce their carbon footprint. Every business in the district is expected to enroll in a tenant zero carbon engagement program, which hopes to raise collective awareness and tackle emissions by optimizing operational performance. The design of buildings uses passive and active strategies to reduce the overall energy demand of the building. To provide business efficiency, safety and security, indoor lighting and temperature are automatically adjusted by sensors that monitor variables such as the number of room occupants, time of day, and outdoor weather.

The interior spaces also feature a biophilic design to promote wellbeing and improve the office environment. The district offers a wide range of flexible work areas, all of which integrate greenery and natural elements as a proven way to enhance the creativity, productivity and happiness of employees. Breakout spaces with trees and landscaped gardens are also integrated into the design of the district. The Integrated Urban Technological Institute further enhances this collaborative system by promoting networking events, conferences, workshops, lectures and exhibitions. Overall, the Urban Tech District aims to provide innovators and entrepreneurs the support they need to develop more livable and resilient cities.

Around the world, innovation campuses are tackling the diverse themes and challenges of the urban environment. In Chicago, OMA recently unveiled the design of the new headquarters for the Discovery Partners Institute, which provides space for offices, laboratories and classrooms where University of Illinois students can meet industry professionals. BIG also won a competition to design a culinary research and innovation hub in San Sebastian, while Snhetta is designing the central building for Ford's research and engineering campus in Dearborn, Michigan.