Planning Abu Dhabi: An Urban History

Dr. Alamira Reem’s research builds on the literature on Abu Dhabi’s urban planning by synthesizing how the city’s development unfolded in relation to the UAE’s intricate political and institutional frameworks and through the processes of modernization and globalization. Following the structure of her recent book, “Abu Dhabi, an Urban History,” Dr. Alamira will outline three distinct periods coinciding with three rulers since the discovery of oil in 1960: Sheikh Shakhbut bin Sultan Al Nahyan (1960–1966), Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan (1966–2004), and Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan (since 2004). She will analyse the different approaches of each ruler to development, including their interaction with planning consultants, architects, developers, construction companies and government agencies. While much still needs to be done, Dr. Alamira demonstrates how Abu Dhabi’s progress towards becoming a global, sustainable city provides lessons for cities elsewhere.
https://enhgauh.tidyhq.com/public/schedule/events/24974-enhg-lecture-june-18th-planning-abu-dhabi-an-urban-history-by-dr-alamira-reem-bani-hashim