In a rare and refreshing move, Dubai Municipality has engaged Al Barsha residents actively in defining the design of new community parks, showing a change towards more citizen-driven urban planning. The effort is a testament to the increased attention Dubai is giving to building healthier communities and inclusive areas for recreation.

On August 17, 2025, residents gathered with the city, led by Director General Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita, to listen to their proposals for two new parks and a mid-block recreational area covering more than 31,000 square feet. The open session had the attendees express their needs and priorities so that the areas would benefit the community.

Residents highlighted an immense need for children’s play spaces of safety, sidewalks and running paths for pedestrians, cycling routes, areas of shaded seating, and family amenities. Calls for accessibility improvements for individuals of determination were a common cry, highlighting public schemes’ requirements for accessibility.

Bin Ghalita stressed that the mission of the municipality is to construct facilities “with the people, and not for the people.” He reiterated that listening to the people will turn the parks into dynamic people centers and not just green parks.

The discussions extended to include beyond parks. Citizens were also updated on overall city progress in Al Barsha, including developments in building infrastructure, more stringent laws regarding rentals, and better bachelor flat requirements. These improvements aim at the residents’ quality of life against the rapid development.

Part of its community outreach, Dubai Municipality also introduced new services such as the “Happiness Vehicle,” an electronic transactions vehicle taking it to the doorstep. They even have a new Virtual Appointment System that allows citizens to transact with municipal officials virtually, again emphasizing accessibility and efficiency.

By placing the people first in the decision-making process, Dubai is establishing a new benchmark for participatory city planning. The Al Barsha parks, coming soon, will not just be an embellishment to the city but also an icon for the kind of possible that ensues when community members are heard and allowed to have direct influence on the future of urban living in Dubai.

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